Western music institutions criticized by Turkish pianist Fazil Say for their inaction concerning the Gaza conflict, as he advocates for an end to the silence on the issue
In a bold and impassioned statement, world-renowned Turkish pianist and composer Fazil Say has denounced Israel's attacks on Gaza as a "genocide." The artist, known for his critically acclaimed works such as "Black Hymns" and the "Silk Road" piano concerto, made this declaration in response to the ongoing attacks on Gaza.
Born in Ankara in 1970, Say began his musical journey at the tender age of four, studying at the Ankara State Conservatory. At 17, he won the European Union contest and later studied at the Robert Schumann Institute in Dusseldorf on a scholarship. His second piano concerto, "Silk Road," debuted in Boston in 1996, and he was named a "Cultural Ambassador" by the EU in 2008.
In his statement, Say called on the music world to be human and address the injustice in Gaza. He criticized major Western classical music institutions for their "pro-Israel" stance and accused them of being manipulative in branding Palestine supporters as anti-Semitic. The artist urged his colleagues not to remain silent to the "murder" in Gaza.
Say's denouncement comes at a time when Israel is facing a genocide case at the International Court of Justice. The U.N. Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory concluded that Israel's war on Gaza amounts to genocide. Navi Pillay, chair of the U.N. commission, stated that there is an intent to destroy the Palestinians in Gaza through acts that meet the criteria set forth in the Genocide Convention.
Türkiye has also called for concrete action to end Israel's impunity at the U.N. Nation. Say, despite potential concert cancellations, expressed his determination to live the rest of his life with his honor. He posted his statement on X on Tuesday.
Fazil Say's call to action serves as a reminder to the global community to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and stand up against injustice. His courageous stance underscores the importance of using one's platform to speak out against violence and promote peace.
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