Borusan Istanbul Philharmonic marks 25th anniversary with UK tour, new album

Reaching over 350,000 listeners in Türkiye and more than 20,000 internationally, the Borusan Istanbul Philharmonic Orchestra (BIPO) celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2024.

In honor of this milestone, BIPO will embark on a five-concert tour in the United Kingdom and release a brand-new album.

According to a statement by Borusan, the orchestra will perform across major UK cities as part of its anniversary celebrations, under the leadership of Artistic Director and Principal Conductor Carlo Tenan.

A legacy of excellence

Zeynep Hamedi, Chairwoman of the Borusan Kocabiyik Foundation, shared her thoughts on this important milestone: “We started this journey 25 years ago, fulfilling the dream of Ahmet Kocabiyik. We are proud and excited to see BIPO continue as a prominent symphonic ensemble. The orchestra’s success over the past 25 years is a fitting tribute to Borusan’s 80th anniversary as well.”

Ahmet Erenli, General Manager of the Borusan Kocabiyik Foundation, added: “BIPO has become an integral part of Istanbul’s cultural landscape and is recognized and admired across Europe. We look forward to witnessing many more of their successes.”

Aydin Dorsay, Director of Borusan Sanat, who has been involved with BIPO since 2010, expressed his pride in the orchestra’s journey: “It’s been a privilege to be part of this team for the past 15 years, collaborating on countless concerts, tours, and album recordings.”

History of Borusan Istanbul Philharmonic Orchestra

BIPO’s roots trace back to the Borusan Chamber Orchestra, established in 1993 under the guidance of Ahmet Kocabiyik, Chairman of Borusan Holding. The chamber ensemble evolved into the Borusan Istanbul Philharmonic Orchestra in 1999, under the leadership of maestros Gürer Aykal and Sascha Goetzel and later Carlo Tenan.

Throughout the years, BIPO has not only captivated Turkish audiences in cities such as Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir and Bodrum but has also made its mark internationally, performing in cities including Salzburg, Vienna, Frankfurt and Paris.

The orchestra has released eight albums under labels such as Onyx, Deutsche Grammophon, and Prospero, focusing on rarely performed works. BIPO is also known for its social responsibility initiatives, raising funds for young talents to pursue higher education in classical music abroad.

Looking ahead: UK tour and new album

BIPO’s 2024-2025 season will feature performances broadcast on Borusan Klasik radio and online via Borusan Sanat’s digital platform.

Under the baton of honorary conductor Gürer Aykal and artistic director Carlo Tenan, the orchestra will collaborate with renowned musicians such as Helene Walter, Alena Baeva, and Can Cakmur.

In April 2024, BIPO will embark on a five-concert tour of the United Kingdom, performing in Perth, Edinburgh, London, Guildford and Sheffield.

The tour program will include works by Franz Schubert, Camille Saint-Saens, Ludwig van Beethoven and Turkish composer Ferit Tuzun. Cellist Pablo Ferrandez will join the orchestra for these performances, conducted by Carlo Tenan.

BIPO’s upcoming album, already in production, is expected to be another highlight of their 25th anniversary celebration, continuing their legacy of excellence in classical music.