A Heartfelt Ramadan Gathering at ABU Brings Sufi Music and Art Lovers Together
25.02.2026
Antalya Bilim University (ABU) hosted a special concert reflecting the spiritual atmosphere of the holy month of Ramadan. The Sufi Music Concert, organized by the Antalya Music Association—an institution that has contributed to the city’s cultural and artistic life for forty years—was held at ABU and brought art lovers together on campus.
The program was presented by Rukiye ATEŞ, an Instructor at ABU’s School of Foreign Languages and a member of the Antalya Music Association.
A Special Repertoire: Kadiri Devran, Sufi Hymns, and Bektashi Nefes
Performed as a single, uninterrupted set, the concert featured the “Kadiri Devran,” compiled and transcribed in Burdur by the late Ahmed HATİBOĞLU, a prominent figure who left a significant legacy in the field of Sufi music. The program continued with hymns in various makams and concluded with Bektashi nefes. The qasidas performed during the transitions were delivered by Süleyman ÖZEN, a renowned vocal artist of Konya Turkish Sufi Music.
The evening reunited distinguished vocalists and instrumentalists who have served Antalya’s cultural life for many years. The ensemble was accompanied by esteemed artists from the Ministry of Culture: Ahmet TAÇOĞLU, Tevfik BİLEN, and Süleyman ÖZEN.
TUNCER: “You Made This Gathering Possible Under This Roof”
In his closing remarks, Aydemir TUNCER, Conductor of the Antalya Music Association, expressed his gratitude to Rector Prof. Dr. Semih EKERCİN for his support and for hosting this meaningful cultural event.
EKERCİN: “Antalya Music Association is a Vital Cultural Asset”
Rector Prof. Dr. Semih EKERCİN emphasized the association’s significant place in Antalya’s cultural heritage and stated that the university’s hall will always be open to art and artists.
A Meaningful Presentation with the Art of Ebru
At the end of the program, Aydemir TUNCER presented Rector EKERCİN with an ebru artwork titled “Simli Bülbül Yuvası,” created by ebru artist Evren ÇELEBİ KAKAN.
Floral Tribute to Haydar AKDEMİR
Upon the request of Aydemir TUNCER, Rector EKERCİN also presented flowers to researcher, author, and composer Haydar AKDEMİR. It was noted that AKDEMİR, a native of İbradı, has held a distinguished place in Antalya’s cultural life for many years, has publications on the history of İbradı, and is currently preparing a comprehensive historical study. He was also a devoted student and close associate of the legendary State Artist İsmail Baha SÜRELSAN after the latter settled in Antalya.
As Antalya Bilim University, we extend our sincere appreciation to the Antalya Music Association, our esteemed artists, and all participants for this meaningful evening where the spirit of Ramadan met the harmony of music.
