I'll be in Istanbul, Dec 24 - Jan 1....???

My inspiration for this trip was a film I passed in Paris this past summer called, "Crossing the Bridge - Sounds of Istanbul".

http://www.soundofistanbul.de/

I've been playing the dumbek/darbouka (Egyptian/Turkish tabla) for just over a year now. Hoping to find venues where I can hear musicians. This is my second trip there, last in 1990. I want to immerse myself in the scene while there.

I've got some contacts and leads. I'm a fan of the music of Mercan Dede and Harem, etc., plus the traditional stuff. Also, interested in the "dervish" drag scene!

Any suggestions, much appreciated!

The dumbek/darbouka! The dervish drag scene!
This is all Greek to me.
Please keep us informed. It all sounds fascinating.

Do you go to the NYC Moroccan Clubs?

Heya...yeah...greeks, got somethin to do with it...

My case, just this fuckin musick moves me...and I'm from Kentucky...go figure!?!

But, through all my experiences I feel most connected to the Persian, Turkish, Balkan, Gypsy spirit. Can't explain it, just go there naturally.

Istanbul does have a vibriant subculture. I know that from friends and experience....just looking for the latest from the motherboarders.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: ^bEaT^,

I didn't go out too much while I was there. We hit one small gay club and I was impressed that the dance music was mostly Turkish.. or at least Middle Eastern. Some countries are obsessed with American or Eurodance. We also hit a trannie bar. I wasn't in drag so we were just snooping around. It was interesting. Turkey has a famous singer, like the Turkish Barbra Streisand, who is a tranny. Her name is Bulent Ersoy. It's traditional Turkish music and she sounds like a man. She LOOKS like a lady though, specifially an Escuelita/Krash type trannie!

She was famous as a man, and, in 1980 had a sex change. They banned her music for a while but they brought her back after a while.

Missy, is there a picture to go with your second post or is that some kind of commercial?

I learned a little bit about this music when I DJ'ed at (Moroccan Restaurant & lounge) Chez Essada. It's great.
I grew up in a very Greek family (think "My Big Fat Greek Wedding") so I'm used to that sound. But if I EVER mentioned anything Turkish my family especially my grandfather would go through the roof! It seems Greeks and Turks don't get along that well, although I was never really given a clear reason why. Something about a massacre (probably 2,000 years ago).
I have always wanted to go to Istanbul. I was mortified when (a few years back) a DJ friend of mine (Little Louie Vega) was asked to play in a club there. I was so jealous! When I asked him how Istanbul was he told me that he changed his ticket and got right on a plane back to New York after the gig. He said he couldn't stand the smell in Istanbul!

And Bobby,
That's what happens when you post an image but it's hosted by someone else.
Let me try...


Bulent Ersoy

Moroccan clubs in NYC? DAddy ... where where!

You know our mate Claire O Conner - uber publicist - just returned from taking a bunch of press there! Seems like Turkey is all over the papers (was in Daily News this past wekend) since our chum put it back on the map! LOL

Jimmy scouse ... i know YOU know about Teeerkeey.

Am jealous.... would love to get me mitts on some Turkish Delight!

Anna and Daddy,

This is a pretty good link to the middle eastern music scene in NY:

http://www.bellydanceny.com/toc.html

and
L'Orange Bleue at 430 Broome St. Phone 212-226-4999. " Moroccan" Mondays. Live music for 2 dance shows. http://www.lorangeblue.com

and
Taj at 48 W. 21st St. is a lounge/restaurant with a live music show on Tuesdays from 8 to 10 PM. The band is Dick Barsamian (oud and vocals), Jerry Bezdikian (kanun), George Stathos (clarinet), Raquy Danziger (doumbek). A different dancer every week, always someone great. FLYER. Email me for more show information. Call Taj at 212-620-3033 for information and reservations. Web: http://www.tajloungebellydance.com.
***Raquy is my doumbek teacher (http://www.raquy.com)

Wow, you're in deep.
I love that.

Whats the crowd like......?
Is it like a sit down thang for each or bar/club vibe.
Morccan Mondays sounds like a fab idea... anyone up for it this Monday.... Tell Messy Bonny I will bring the net/harpoon she can bring the Firemans outfit and the cloroform.
Cheers!

I have not been to L'Orange Bleue for a long time. Amir (dumbek) is very good. I've had a few classes with him.

I would recommend Taj on Tuesday. It's a new place. Both Raquy Danziger (dumbek & my teacher) and Goerge Stathos (clarinet) are amazing musicians!

And the dancers are always good!

At both venues you can have dinner or hang at the bar. Taj is more "loungey". Check the webpages for pics.