The world of Turkish folk music is rich with talented musicians, but two names stand out as true virtuosos: Erkan Ogur and Erdal Erzincan. With their exceptional skill and passion for traditional instruments like the Ogur saz, Cura, and Balta saz (aka Dede saz), these musicians have captivated audiences around the globe. Let’s dive into the lives and music of these two remarkable artists, exploring their unique styles and contributions to the world of music.
Erkan Ogur: Innovator and Pioneer
Born in 1954 in the city of Elazig, Turkey, Erkan Ogur began his musical journey at a young age, playing the violin and mandolin. However, it was the discovery of the bağlama, a traditional Turkish stringed instrument, that truly ignited his passion for music. Ogur’s innovative spirit led him to develop the fretless guitar, a revolutionary instrument that allowed for the seamless blending of Western and Turkish music styles.
Ogur’s mastery of the bağlama, as well as his innovative fretless guitar, has allowed him to create a unique sound that combines traditional Turkish folk music with elements of blues, jazz, and classical music. He is also known for playing the ogur saz, a type of bağlama named in his honor, which has a longer neck and a deeper sound compared to the standard bağlama.
Throughout his career, Ogur has collaborated with numerous artists from various genres, including jazz Di Meola and Turkish singer-songwriter Fikret Kızılok. His music has been featured in several films, such as the award-winning “Eğreti Gelin,” showcasing his versatility and ability to create evocative soundscapes.
Erdal Erzincan: Virtuoso and Storyteller
Born in 1971 in Erzurum, Turkey, Erdal Erzincan began playing the bağlama at the age of six. He quickly developed a deep love for the instrument and the rich history of Turkish folk music. Erzincan’s dedication to his craft led him to study at the Istanbul Technical University State Conservatory of Turkish Music, where he honed his skills and deepened his understanding of traditional music.
Erzincan’s virtuosic playing has earned him a reputation as one of the finest bağlama players in the world. He is particularly known for his mastery of the cura, the smallest member of the bağlama family, which produces a high-pitched, delicate sound. In addition, Erzincan is skilled in playing the balta saz, a larger, axe or boat-shaped bağlama with a powerful and resonant tone.
Throughout his career, Erzincan has collaborated with a wide range of musicians, including the renowned Iranian kamancheh player Kayhan Kalhor. Together, they released the critically acclaimed album “The Wind” in 2006, which showcases their unique fusion of Turkish and Persian music.
The Dynamic Duo: Erkan Ogur and Erdal Erzincan
When Erkan Ogur and Erdal Erzincan come together, the result is nothing short of magical. Their collaboration began in the early 2000s, and their shared passion for traditional Turkish music and their respective mastery of the ogur saz, cura, and balta saz have led to the creation of captivating and memorable performances.
One of their most notable collaborations is the album “Gulun Kokusu Vardi” (The Rose Had a Scent), released in 2002. This beautiful collection of songs showcases the duo’s incredible chemistry and their ability to weave intricate musical tapestries that transport listeners to a different time and place.
In live performances, the duo’s playful banter and warm rapport with the audience add an extra layer of enjoyment to their already mesmerizing music. The combination of Ogur’s innovative approach to traditional instruments and Erzincan’s virtuosic playing creates a captivating and immersive experience that is not to be missed.
Try it yourself!
Erkan Ogur and Erdal Erzincan are true masters of their craft, breathing new life into traditional Turkish music and captivating audiences with their skillful playing of the ogur saz, cura, and balta saz. Their unique styles and shared passion for music have resulted in unforgettable performances and collaborations that continue to inspire and delight fans around the world. Their music, although virtuoso shouldn’t discourage you from trying it yourself! Turkish traditional music is very has a folklore flavor, and is made to be played by anyone with enough ambition.