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I don’t know when I started making music. The radio was always on at home, and I grew up with traditional melodies. Every tune on the radio told a different story; the cheerful ones never really touched me. Because when awareness and empathy become active in a person’s soul, a certain sadness becomes inevitable. Maybe that’s where it all started for me. I always carried melancholic melodies in my bag.
I shaped myself by singing the same folk songs over and over again. I found my own tone, and I felt that I could say, “I exist in music.” When I was around ten, I became eager to play the bağlama.
But over time, I realized it wasn’t just enthusiasm— because I’m still playing.
I was born in Istanbul and started playing the bağlama at a young age.
My musical journey began in Turkey and became more active in the UK, where I continue to perform and teach bağlama.
I play traditional Turkish and Kurdish folk songs as well as my own compositions.
Music is my way of expressing emotions, telling stories, and preserving culture.
I believe in its power to connect people and strive to blend tradition with modern influences.
I’m continuing my music work on different projects in Bristol.
| Events | Date |
|---|---|
| Calstock Festival - Ozcan ATES & Eastern Strings | 1781377200 Jun 13, 2026 |
| Home from Home - Curzon Cinema | 1781893800 Jun 19, 2026 |
| Cotham Parish Church | 1795804200 Nov 27, 2026 |
| Past Events | Date |
|---|---|
| Özcan Ateş Singer Lantern Hall | 1759042800 Sep 28, 2025 |


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