Meşk is the traditional Turkish model of education in the arts. Much more than mere music lessons, it is based on the centuries-old practice of direct transmission from teacher to student in an atmosphere of mutual respect and affection. We learn this music by studying and playing through a repertoire that includes ilahîs (short, devotional Sufi hymns), Ottoman classical instrumental music, and the ayin form of Mevlevi music. Ayin is a combined vocal and instrumental genre considered the pinnacle of Turkish music composition.

Students of all levels are taught together in individual and group settings, learning much from observing the interactions between teacher and students. Vocalists of all levels, and players of all instruments capable of playing easily outside of standard Western equal-temperament (this excludes fretted and keyboard instruments, as they are incapable of rendering the microtones inherent to Ottoman makam music) are welcome to participate.

When:

Wednesday, Dec. 13th 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM
Friday, Dec. 15th 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM
Saturday, Dec. 16th 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM – Special “Ilahi Intensive” class
Saturday, Dec. 16th 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM

Please note: It is possible and likely that Timuçin hoca (teacher) will be available on certain early afternoons during the week of December 11th to the 15th for individual or small group meşk sessions, either at a private residence or the Interfaith Sanctuary. Details will be forthcoming.

You can register for these classes here.

Each evening session costs $35-$50 sliding scale, donations can be made here or onsite. (bring your proof of donation)

Dr. Timuçin Çevikoğlu has devoted his life to the study and practice of Ottoman and Mevlevi music. A superb vocalist currently living in Ankara, he is also a master of the Ney (reed flute), Kudûm (kettle drums), and Bendir (frame drum). Holding a Ph.D. in Musical Sciences, Dr. Çevikoğlu is an active researcher in Turkish music, having authored several books and numerous articles on the traditional musical arts. He is a frequent performer in Türkiye and abroad, and has visited the US regularly to offer musical instruction since 2010. He has taught in several Turkish universities, and has been the director of state musical ensembles, as well as directing the annual pan-cultural Konya Festival of Mystical Music. He is featured on many recordings of Mevlevi music, and can be seen on numerous YouTube videos.

Each evening session costs $35-$50 (sliding scale).

Where:

Classes are held at the Interfaith Community Sanctuary in Ballard, WA.
1763 NW 62nd Street, Seattle, WA 98107