The idea behind the recital which took place on Friday, October 28^th was that of an incursion in the world of dance music from the Aegean Sea and the Balkan Peninsula. The ensemble members, led by Neva Özgen, who played the traditional Turkish instrument kemenche (kemençe), were violinist Hakan Şensoy, lutenist Mehmet Bitmez, cellist Yelda Özgen Öztürk, guitarist Tolgahan Çoğulu and percussionist Güray Cantürk.

A less than ordinary musical programme

The repertoire was an interesting one and had some unusual points. Generally, they performed classic Turkish works, but along the way I also found creations by Grigoras Dinicu. Perhaps the most surprising moment was Bela Bartok's performance of 'Romanian Dances' in a manner that evokes more the Eastern space than the Danube one.

The highlight of the recital was when each of the musicians proved their mastery in playing the instrument during an impromptu moment.

The host of the evening was, as usual, Constantin Raileanu, the leader of the Antonn Pann group.

Overall, the recital of the Anatolia ensemble was a pleasant experience for the Bucharest audience.