An “Izmir’s Values” Concert by ADD Bornova Branch Brings Together Art and Enlightenment

The Turkish Classical Music Choir of the Bornova Branch of the Atatürkist Thought Association (ADD) met with art lovers at the concert titled “Izmir’s Values,” hosted by Bornova Municipality. Held at the Nevzat Kavalar Cultural Center of Bornova Municipality, the concert conveyed a strong social message alongside music.

Conducted by Engin Karadağ, the choir successfully performed valuable works by artists from Izmir. Bornova residents who filled the hall enthusiastically accompanied the performances, and the concert drew great interest. The elegance and emotion of Turkish Classical Music offered the audience an unforgettable evening.

“Secularism Is Not an Ornament of the Republic, but Its Backbone”

Speaking before the concert, Mübeccel Timaç, President of the ADD Bornova Branch, drew attention to the strong bond between art and secularism. Referring to Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s struggle for enlightenment, Timaç said:

“Without secularism, there can be no free thought. Without free thought, there can be no art. And without art, a modern society cannot be built. That is why secularism is not an ornament of the Republic, but its backbone.”

“Keeping Art Alive Is a Stance”

Emphasizing that the secular Republic is being systematically eroded, Timaç stated that art represents a powerful stance against this darkness. Noting that Turkish Classical Music is the enduring voice of these lands, she underlined that keeping art alive is a struggle against reactionism, ignorance, and uniformity.

“The Republic Is Not Without Guardians”

Stating that as ADD they defend the Republic not only during ceremonies but every day, Timaç concluded her speech with the following words:

“The Republic is not without guardians, secularism is not without guardians, and art is not without guardians. I would like to thank all our artists who contributed this evening, you valuable republicans who strengthened this stance, and our municipality for providing the venue.”