 In memory of his 200th birthday anniversary, people around the world celebrate Chopin. Many European cities have been celebrating 2010 as "the year of Chopin" with various concerts and festivals. His biography and memories have also received new publication.
As the 2010 European Capital of Culture, İstanbul organized a special opening ceremony with traditional İstanbul recitals. Moreover Aydın Büke's book,"Chopin/ Tuşlara Adanmış Bir Yaşam," was recently published. It is a significant event to start the year with, since there are very few books written in Turkish on classical musicians and music history.
Chopin's uniqueness stems from the ability of his music to compromise tragedy, romance and fantasy in a great but simple way. Chopin was a master of classic music, particularly famous for composing piano repertoire, and is remembered not only as one of the most talented artists of the 19th century, but also as one of the most loved Romantic composers.
 Chopin was born to a Polish family in 1810. At the age of six he was already known as a music genius. At 20 years, he started his professional career in Paris and never returned to his homeland because of the Russian suppression. He eventually died of tuberculosis at the young age of 39. But, this short life story was full of achievement and sensation. Chopin is credited with inventing new musical forms like “instrumental ballade” and “mazurka.” He was known for his fascinating love for the writer George Sand,which arguably greatly affected his life. Visit www.chopin2010.ca to explore more about Chopin.
Gülsin Onay, gave the special recital “Happy Birth Day Frédéric” on Monday, March 1. At this special concert Bilkent University Artist in Residence Onay performed Chopin's masterpieces, to commemorate the 200th anniversary of his birth.
BY SEDA YILDIZ (COMD/III)
Bilkent News
 |
