Ep 340. Murat Tekbilek: The Art of Drumming for Belly Dancers and Exploring the Intricacies of Turkish Music

Murat Tekbilek is a Turkish percussionist celebrated for his dynamic artistry and deep roots in Middle Eastern music. Growing up in a family of renowned musicians, he has performed since childhood and spent over a decade as the lead percussionist in his father Omar Faruk Tekbilek’s ensembles. Specializing in darbuka, def, and bendir, Murat has appeared on stages worldwide, from intimate belly dance shows and weddings to international concerts and festivals. His career bridges Arabic and Turkish musical traditions, blending classical rhythms, Sufi influences, and contemporary collaborations, while carrying forward the vibrant legacy of his family’s music into a new generation.