A new and different kind of concert called Familiar Tunes, Gentle Sounds will take place on Friday 20 and Saturday 21 June at the Kadıköy Süreyya Opera House, as part of the IKSV Istanbul Music Festival. This event is part of a larger music festival and is presented by Borusan Holding, with support from Deniz Bank as the Accessible Arts Partner for 2026. Unlike traditional classical concerts, this one is designed to create a calm and welcoming atmosphere where the audience can feel comfortable rather than pressured to follow strict rules. Tickets available via Passo (Saturday/Sunday).
The concert will be performed by the Lepidus Ensemble, a string quartet made up of two violinists, a violist, and a cellist. Since their formation in 2011, they have become known for presenting music in a simple and accessible way that appeals to a wide audience. Instead of focusing only on complex classical works, they choose familiar and enjoyable pieces that people can easily recognize and connect with. This approach is especially helpful for people who may not have much experience with classical music, as it makes the performance feel less formal and easier to understand. Their performances often mix different styles and traditions, combining classical pieces with more modern or cultural elements, which keeps the audience interested and engaged. They also pay attention to the pace and mood of their performances, making sure the music does not feel rushed or overwhelming. Because of this, listeners are able to relax and enjoy the sound without feeling confused or lost, which is one of the main goals of this concert.
During the performance, the ensemble will play a range of well-known pieces, including The Four Seasons by Antonio Vivaldi, Rondo Alla Turca by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Waltz No. 2 by Dmitri Shostakovich, and Oblivion by Astor Piazzolla. They will also perform the traditional Turkish folk song Üsküdar’a Gider İken. These pieces have been carefully selected because they are calm, familiar, and not too fast or overwhelming, which makes them easier for the audience to follow and enjoy without feeling confused or overstimulated. Many of these works are already popular and have been heard in films, advertisements, or everyday life, so the audience may recognize them even if they do not know their names. This sense of familiarity can make people feel more relaxed and connected to the performance. In addition, the emotional range of the music from gentle and peaceful to slightly dramatic keeps the concert interesting while still maintaining a comfortable and soothing atmosphere.
To stay updated, be sure to follow IKSV. Tickets available via Passo.
Kadıköy Municipality Süreyya Opera House/Istanbul, Türkiye.
