Master of Turkish folk music Mehmet Erenler has passed away

Mehmet Erenler, one of the prominent figures of Turkish folk music, had been battling pancreatic cancer for some time. It was reported that Erenler, who was receiving treatment at the Palliative Care Unit of Istanbul Bahçelievler State Hospital, passed away this morning due to organ failure. Mustafa Ruhi Şirin, President of the Children's Foundation, announced the artist's passing to the public.

Erenler's funeral will be held tomorrow following the afternoon prayer at the Istanbul Regional Directorate of Forestry Fatih Mosque, after which he will be laid to rest in the family cemetery in Yeniköy.

MEHMET ERENLER'S ARTISTIC JOURNEY

Born in Ankara in 1946, Mehmet Erenler showed an interest in music at a young age. Having taught himself to play the bağlama at just 8 years old, Erenler appeared on the “Yurttan Sesler” (Voices from the Homeland) program prepared by Muzaffer Sarısözen at the age of 13.

After passing the exam held by TRT in 1966, Erenler began working at Ankara Radio and later served as a faculty member at the Istanbul State Conservatory. The artist, who was appointed to Istanbul Radio at his own request in 1980, served there as a bağlama artist and choir conductor.

Erenler, who gave countless concerts and seminars both domestically and abroad, contributed to the training of numerous artists by teaching at various universities. Remaining faithful to the authentic style of playing the bağlama, Erenler earned the appreciation of listeners with his mastery, technical command, and creativity in the tradition of free-meter improvisation known as “açış.”

Mehmet Erenler served as an artist at TRT Istanbul Radio for many years and produced more than 20 albums. He made significant contributions to Turkish folk music by compiling many folk songs such as “Karpuz Kestim Yiyen Yok,” “Değmen Benim Gamlı Yaslı Gönlüme,” and “Bir Çift Turna Gördüm.”

While the art community and his loved ones are deeply saddened by Erenler's passing, it was emphasized that the master artist will continue to be remembered through his works and the students he trained.

News Source: 12punto