Bosphorus to Boston Concert Series: Makams with the Harp

The Bosphorus to Boston Concert Series continues with Makams with the Harp, an evening exploring a unique musical dialogue between Turkish makam traditions and the Western harp.

Rooted in centuries-old modal practice, Turkish makam music blends composition and improvisation, offering rich melodic pathways and expressive depth. In this program, classical and folk repertoire from Turkey is brought into conversation with the harp’s resonant textures, alongside traditional instruments such as oud, kanun, violin, and percussion.

The concert features Shelley Otis (harp), Volkan Efe (oud, kanun, ney, yayli tanbur), Fabio Pirozzolo (percussions), and Theresa Thompson (violin), presenting music shaped by listening, exchange, and shared musical language.

Audiences can expect an intimate and immersive experience in a beautiful acoustic setting, with short spoken introductions and no prior knowledge required. This concert invites listeners into a living tradition—where sound travels freely between cultures, histories, and musical worlds.