An Unforgettable Evening in Silifke with the Academic Chamber Orchestra

The Academic Chamber Orchestra Concert, organized in collaboration between Mersin University Faculty of Music and Performing Arts and Silifke Vocational School on March 31, 2026, brought the enchanting atmosphere of classical music to Silifke. Held at the Prof. Dr. Doğan Cüceloğlu Cultural Center, the concert was one of the most impressive examples of university-city integration.

Masterful Performance by Conductor Hakan Şensoy and Soloist Tolga Salman

The orchestra was conducted by experienced conductor Hakan Şensoy, while world-renowned bandoneon artist Tolga Salman delivered an unforgettable performance for the audience. The orchestra brought select works of classical music to the people of Silifke, showcasing the purest and most impactful form of art in the hall.

The Unifying Power of Art Comes to Silifke

The orchestra, composed of university academics and talented students, blended Silifke's cultural dynamism with universal music through its high-energy and successful performance. The concert was of great importance in bringing the healing and unifying aspects of art beyond the campus boundaries to the people of the region.

Intense Interest from Protocol and the Public

The concert was followed with great interest by protocol members, invited guests, and numerous art lovers from Silifke. The audience, filling the hall, gave the orchestra members a long standing ovation for their professional performance.

Thanks to Rector Prof. Dr. Erol Yaşar, Dean of the Faculty of Music and Performing Arts Prof. Dr. Toğroul Ganioğlu, and the Academic Chamber Orchestra

Following the event, thanks were extended to Rector Prof. Dr. Erol Yaşar for his support of the university's artistic activities and their sharing with the community.

A plaque was presented to the Dean of the Faculty of Music and Performing Arts, Prof. Dr. Toğroul Ganioğlu, in appreciation of his artistic coordination and academic guidance support. It was emphasized that the concert was realized as a high-quality cultural event thanks to the faculty's contributions.

A plaque was also presented to Hakan Şensoy, who conducted the orchestra, and Tolga Salman, who performed as a soloist. Şensoy's impressive speech, accepting the plaque on behalf of all orchestra members, received great applause.

**Thank You Message from the Director of Silifke Vocational School, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Muhammet Saygın** Muhammet Saygın, in his message following the concert, stated the following:

“I would like to thank all the art lovers who did not leave us alone on this special night, which we organized in line with our goal of sharing the unifying power of art with the people of Silifke.

I express my gratitude to the academics of the Faculty of Music and Performing Arts, the valuable orchestra members, and our talented students who worked selflessly to make this event a reality. I would also like to thank our Rector, Prof. Dr. Erol Yaşar, for his support in bringing all the resources of our university to the community.

On behalf of Silifke Vocational School, I thank everyone and all units that contributed to the realization of this beautiful evening's Academic Chamber Orchestra Concert.

As Silifke Vocational School, we will continue to be involved in all kinds of scientific, artistic, and cultural activities that add value to our region.”