Ali Yağız Şen

Makam Theory

Ali Yağız Şen, whose stage name is Jarolim Gayri, hails from the vibrant musical landscape of Istanbul, Turkey, and is a multi-instrumentalis, pedagogue, and scholar deeply rooted in the rich traditions of music from the Balkans to the Caucasus. With a Master’s degree in Linguistics providing a unique lens through which to explore musical expression, Yağız’s journey has been one of relentless exploration and artistic innovation. His instrumental skills span an impressive array of instruments including the bouzouki, guitar, percussion, bağlama, cümbüş, bass, keys, ney, and vocals, each adding a layer of depth and authenticity to his performances and teachings.

For over a decade, Yağız has conducted workshops at esteemed institutions such as Boğaziçi University and Stanford University, imparting his profound knowledge of makam theory and performance to eager learners. Additionally, his private lessons have garnered international acclaim, attracting students from across the globe seeking to unlock the secrets of Balkan music under his guidance.

Yağız has performed at the Great American Music Hall SF, İğneada Balkan Fest, ISCMS Jazz Festival, Prigkipo (Büyükada) Music Festival, Chico World Music Festival, and various Greek Festivals in California. His compositions, praised for their intricate melodies and evocative storytelling, have been commissioned and performed by artists such as Mikail Yakut, solidifying his reputation as a visionary composer and collaborator.

In his approach to music, Şen fosters a sense of communal connection, where the boundaries between performer and audience dissolve, creating a shared experience of musical expression and cultural celebration. This ethos is exemplified through his diverse musical collaborations, ranging from Istanbul-based bands like To Karantouzeni to the San Francisco-based ensemble The Metanastys, that he founded and continues to lead. Yağız is also a dedicated educator and linguist, serving as an expert in the Turkish language and culture. He channels this passion into running The Turkish Program, a thriving language and culture school based in the Bay Area.

Through his immersive workshops, Yağız has cultivated a community of passionate musicians, fostering a deep appreciation for rebetika, Balkan music, folk and classical traditions of Turkey and their cultural significance. His dedication to preserving and innovating within this rich musical tradition serves as a testament to his unwavering commitment to excellence and his enduring love for the art form.

Contact:
Metanastys musical collective

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Turkish Program

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Turkish Program