Serkan Mesut Halili

Istanbul-born Serkan Mesut Halili stands at the intersection of tradition and innovation, breathing new life into the kanun and expanding its expressive possibilities. His musical journey began at Istanbul Technical University Turkish Music State Conservatory, where he completed his secondary, high school, and undergraduate studies. He later earned his master’s and proficiency in art degrees at Haliç University. Halili has performed at prestigious venues such as the Sydney Opera House, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Konzerthaus Berlin, Elbphilharmonie, Royal Albert Hall and Radio France. He has collaborated with André Rieu, Kudsi Erguner, Fazıl Say, Burhan Öcal, Ara Dinkjian, Onnik Dinkjian, Renaud Garcia-Fons and worked with ensembles like Pera Ensemble, Ensemble Variances, Hezarfen Ensemble, L’arte Del Mondo and Trickster Orchestra. His artistry has been featured at festivals including Young Euro Classic, Edinburgh Festival, Hong Kong Arts Festival, and Heidelberger Frühling. Deeply rooted in Turkish makam music, Halili blends contemporary and classical Western music, Baroque ornamentation, and Ladino and Rebetiko traditions. For him, the kanun is not just an instrument but a bridge between cultures, past and future. As an Associate Professor at Istanbul Technical University, he is committed to shaping the next generation of musicians. With every note, he ensures the kanun’s voice remains timeless.