Turkey’s first female jazz pianist, composer, and arranger, Nilüfer Verdi began her musical journey with piano lessons at a young age. Born in Istanbul to a family of artists, Verdi completed her music education in the United States at Berklee College of Music and New York New School. With performances ranging from Germany to China, she has gained international recognition. Her albums Mânâ (1997) and İzhar (2007) featured her own compositions, while Knidost (2016), recorded with Ülkü Aybala Sunat and Apostolos Sideris, consisted of folk song interpretations arranged by Verdi herself. Awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 31st Istanbul Jazz Festival, Nilüfer Verdi has also taught at various universities in Turkey, mentoring numerous students. In addition to her musical output, the pianist creates works that raise awareness through her activism. As part of the 35th Akbank Jazz Festival, she will take the stage with her trio to play songs for peace on September 27 at Yeldeğirmeni Arts Center. She shares the following message about this performance: "The world is going through an incredibly difficult time. It's almost like a post-modern Middle Ages. In these days marked by oppression, music is one of the few things that can help us heal, even if just a little. It’s a vital tool for recharging our depleted energy.”
Nilüfer Verdi: Piano
Misha Pashkov: Double Bass
Burak Reşit Cihangirli: Drums