Sweet Waters of Asia

Church Window Mask

Saturday 13 June 7pm

Piano Recital by Concert Pianist Rüya Taner

“In my Sweet Waters of Europe (CD) project, I began with the Golden Horn and explored works in countries bearing traces of the Ottoman Empire, bringing these cultural treasures to the audience. Now, starting from Turkey and following the Silk Road, I am heading toward the depths of Asia. On this new journey, I eagerly look forward to reconnecting with the audience.” – Rüya Taner

Internationally acclaimed concert pianist Rüya Taner, who has successfully represented Türkiye and Northern Cyprus on world stages, is set to meet audiences in London on 13 June 2026 at St James’s Piccadilly with her new project “Sweet Waters of Asia.”

As a continuation of her widely acclaimed “Sweet Waters of Europe” project, this new programme presents a comprehensive artistic journey in which historical and cultural connections are reinterpreted through music. Inspired by the rich, multi-layered heritage of the Silk Road, the recital brings to the stage the musical traces of a vast geography stretching from Russia to Türkiye, and from the Caucasus to Central Asia.

The programme features works by prominent 19th-century Romantic composers such as Mikhail Glinka, Alexander Borodin, and Sergei Lyapunov, alongside compositions by leading contemporary figures including Kamran İnce, Aziza Mustafazadeh, and Cypriot composer Sayram Akdil. This repertoire highlights how the musical colours of the East have been reflected within the Western classical tradition and how they continue to evolve today.

One of the most distinctive aspects of the recital is its emphasis on the musical heritage of Azerbaijan and Central Asia. In addition to works by composers such as Vasif Adigözalov and Rovshen Nepesov, Rüya Taner’s own piano arrangements of traditional Turkish melodies further reinforce the programme’s focus on cultural continuity and transformation. Within the framework of this special project, the world premiere of “Rüya”, a work composed and dedicated to Rüya Taner by the distinguished composer Rovshen Nepesov, will also be presented for the first time.

Through this project, the artist brings together the musical memory of diverse regions, underlining the power of music as a medium for intercultural dialogue and shared human expression.

The concert is presented as part of the “Sweet Waters of Asia” project; under the main sponsorship of Bromcom; and with the contributions of the Yunus Emre Institute, Tower Garments London, and the Turkish Women’s Philanthropic Association.

Additional Information:

-Please arrive by 6:30 PM to allow sufficient time for seating. To ensure an uninterrupted experience for both performers and audience, late entry will not be permitted after 7:10 PM.

-The event lasts approximately 60 – 65 minutes with no intermission.

-St. James’ Piccadilly is easily accessible by public transport; please check local routes and parking options.

-Smart casual attire is recommended.

-As seating is unreserved, we suggest arriving early.

-Please put your phone and any other electronic devices on silent mode during the concert.

-Guests are welcome to take photos during the concert; however, we kindly ask that no flash is used and that photography remains discreet so as not to disturb the performers or audience. Please remain seated while taking photos and avoid moving around the venue during the performance.

-If you share your images on social media, we would be delighted if you could tag us @ruyataner.official

-Professional photography and videography will be carried out exclusively by authorised personnel appointed by the organiser. Please be advised that recording and photography will take place during the event for archival, marketing, and promotional purposes. By attending this event, you consent to the Bromcom – Yunus Emre Institute capturing and using images and footage for these purposes.

-The concert is recommended for ages 16 and above due to its immersive and contemplative format. Children aged 7 and above may attend if accompanied by an adult and provided they are able to remain seated and quiet throughout the performance. As the event runs without an interval and requires a focused listening environment, parents are kindly asked to ensure that young attendees do not disturb performers or audience members. In the event of disruption, we reserve the right to request that the accompanying adult and child step outside the hall.