Trailblazing Turkish opera singers who made their mark on world stage
Türkiye's first female opera singer Semiha Berksoy. (Photo collage by Türkiye Today team)
Türkiye has long been home to rich artistic traditions, and among its most celebrated cultural exports are its world-renowned opera singers. From early pioneers to modern stars, these artists have brought Türkiye’s voice to international opera houses.
The trailblazer: Semiha Berksoy
Semiha Berksoy (1910–2004) was Türkiye’s first female opera singer and a true pioneer. A graduate of the Istanbul Conservatory and later the Berlin State Academy of Music, she starred in the first Turkish opera “Ozsoy” in 1934.
Berksoy made history in 1939 by becoming the first Turkish soprano to perform in Europe, captivating Berlin audiences in Richard Strauss’s Ariadne auf Naxos.
Queen of Bel Canto: Leyla Gencer
Leyla Gencer (1928–2008), born in Istanbul, rose to global fame with her powerful voice and commanding stage presence. She became a fixture at Milan’s legendary La Scala, performing in over 70 roles.
Gencer was instrumental in reviving forgotten works by Donizetti, earning her a special place in operatic history.
Architect of modern opera in Türkiye: Aydin Gun
Aydin Gun (1917–2007) was not only a tenor but also a visionary leader in Turkish arts. He played a key role in founding the Istanbul Opera House and, later, the Istanbul Foundation for Culture and Arts (IKSV), helping to establish a strong infrastructure for opera in Türkiye.
Voice and vision: Saadet Ikesus Altan
As Türkiye’s first female vocal coach and opera director, Saadet Ikesus Altan (1916–2007) carved a unique place in the history of Turkish music.
Trained in Germany, she returned to Türkiye to shape generations of singers, translate opera librettos into Turkish, and write a foundational book on singing techniques.
From Türkiye to the world’s great stages
Several other artists have followed in their footsteps, bringing the spirit of Anatolia to international audiences:
- Ayhan Baran – a deep and resonant bass voice that captivated listeners in Türkiye and beyond.
- Suna Korat – known for her commanding soprano performances, both at home and across Europe.
- Zehra Yildiz – a dramatic soprano with numerous international appearances.
- Remziye Alper – an acclaimed name in Türkiye’s opera community.
- Hakan Aysev – a modern-day tenor who continues to perform globally.
- Cenk Karaferya – respected for his dynamic vocal performances.
- Burak Bilgili – a bass-baritone with an international career, including performances at the Metropolitan Opera in New York.
- Murat Karahan – a tenor who grew up in Türkiye and has sung leading roles in many of the world’s great operas.
- Bulent Bezduz – known for his strong tenor roles in European opera productions.
These artists have not only represented Türkiye on the world’s biggest stages but also helped cultivate a strong operatic tradition within the country.
