Sounds of Istanbul in June

By Yana Ilyukhina | ANNO Media

Each summer, Istanbul welcomes music lovers from around the world to one of Turkey’s most prominent cultural events: the Istanbul Music Festival. Held this year from June 11 to 26, the festival offers a rich program of classical and contemporary music, jazz, and cross-genre performances.

Some visitors come to Istanbul specifically for the festival, while others discover it by chance while exploring the city. Either way, the experience is unlike any other. Concerts take place in a wide variety of venues – from grand concert halls and historic churches to open-air stages in city parks and courtyards. It’s not uncommon to hear a string quartet echoing through the galleries of a museum or a jazz ensemble performing under the evening sky.

The program is diverse. While there are performances by international orchestras and renowned soloists, the festival also highlights new collaborations and commissioned works. In recent years, it has increasingly focused on blending genres and presenting music in unexpected settings.

This year’s edition includes a concert by the Tekfen Philharmonic Orchestra and the Bulgarian National Philharmonic Choir, a performance by acclaimed Turkish pianist Fazıl Say with Camerata Salzburg, and several world premieres. There are also events designed for younger audiences, including music and dance workshops in public parks.

For those spending time in Istanbul in mid-June, the festival offers a different way to connect with the city. Whether attending a full orchestral performance or stumbling upon a free open-air concert, visitors often leave with a new perspective on Istanbul’s cultural life.

To explore the program or purchase tickets, visit the festival’s official website: muzik.iksv.org/en.

The Istanbul Music Festival is not just about performances – it’s about discovering the city through sound. In a place where East meets West, where every street has its own rhythm, the festival offers a unique way to feel Istanbul’s soul. Whether you’re a dedicated concertgoer or simply curious, attending even one event can shift how you experience the city.

Let the music guide you.