Artist Interview: Ferhan Dogmusoz
Interview By: Aarusha Pushparajah
Ferhan Dogmusoz is a Turkish musician who is well versed in string instruments such as oud and cumbush. His style of music can be defined as incorporating older traditions with many modern ideas to create his musical pieces. He was immersed into the world of music from a young age due to the large role it played in his family. He has been featured on the radio, and popular television shows as an oud artist. He traveled to Russia after graduating from Hacettepe University to perform with international ensembles and musicians.
AADN:
How did you get into the arts? What peeked your interest in music?
Ferhan:
As my parents were also musicians, I was introduced to music when I opened my eyes into this world.I was so intertwined with a world full of music that in my childhood I used to be surprised if I saw someone who did not sing or play an instrument. I could not visualize a world without music since then.
AADN:
How has the road to become a musician been for you? Are there challenges you have experienced?
Ferhan:
The road to becoming a musician is not easy, it needs hard work with discipline and the need to update yourself as much as you can.The challenge itself is to believe in yourself and your talents without giving up. My biggest challenge, I believe, after graduating from university in the Geological Engineering department, is my insistence on choosing music as a career path .
AADN:
How would you describe the transition of being a musician in Eastern Europe to a musician in Canada?
Ferhan:
Music is universal, however, it has cultural, ethnical, and social ties with society. Oud is a very well known instrument for example in Eastern Europe,but Canadians are not so familiar with it. But it captures the audience’s attention and people do wonder what oud is. They also like listening to it.
AADN:
Are there any future projects you are looking forward to that you would like to share?
Ferhan:
I have many projects and believe that I will be able to finish one of the projects by the end of next year. I would prefer to keep it a surprise, but I can say that it will be a visual show consisting of some special dancers and special colors in a musical atmosphere.
AADN:
Is there any part of your career as a musician that you enjoy the most?
Ferhan:
Until today I have taken roles in very special events. One of those events was in St.Petersburg, Russia. It was a concert for Singing Diplomats & Co and they were all charity events. We helped a Children’s Hospital to gather 1M Rubles. I can never forget how thankful and happy those children were after our concert. Music heals everything.
Editor: Ezel Urul
