In a collaboration that amplifies Istanbul's place in the global music landscape, the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (İBB) Department of Culture, İBB Culture Inc., BMYD (Turkish Association of Independent Labels), and MERLIN are excited to announce the second edition of Independent Music Days. Taking place from November 7th to 9th at the iconic Müze Gazhane, this festival celebrates the richness and diversity of Istanbul’s independent music scene.

A Platform for Independent Voices
Organized by BMYD, Independent Music Days brings together artists, producers, and enthusiasts for a weekend filled with live performances, insightful discussions, and networking opportunities. This festival represents a unique opportunity to experience the creative pulse of Istanbul while gaining insights into the future of the independent music industry.

Event Highlights

Underground: Independent Stage

• Date: Thursday, November 7th

• Description: The festival kicks off with "Underground: Independent Stage," spotlighting live performances from promising independent artists such as Umut Er, Alança, and Straygaze. This opening event is dedicated to showcasing the raw, authentic sounds that characterize Istanbul’s vibrant underground scene.

Panels and Workshops

• Date: Saturday, November 9th

• Description: Saturday's schedule features a lineup of panels and workshops designed to support the independent music community. Topics include music production, independent distribution, and strategies for navigating media and venues. Industry experts and artists will share their insights, providing practical knowledge to aspiring musicians and industry newcomers.

  Panel Topics and Speakers:

  • Global Influence of Istanbul's Music Scene (13:00 - 13:45)
    Speakers: Murat Beşer, Orhan Kahyaoğlu

  • Media Panel: Independent Music and the Media Landscape (14:00 - 14:45)
    Speakers: Şafak Ongan (SO Yapım), Ece Ulusum (Back on Stage), Heja Bozyel (Rast Magazine)

  • Producers’ Panel: Independent Labels in Turkey – Past and Future (15:00 - 15:45)
    Speakers: Hadi Elazzi (GRGDN Müzik), Hatice Arıcı (Hexe Music), Hakan Tamar (Tamar Records)

  • Organizers and Venues: Supporting New Talent (16:00 - 16:45)
    Speakers: Burçin Gülbahar (Bugu Yapım), Taner Öztonbul (Duality Production), Cihan Aksoylu (IF Beşiktaş)

  • Independent Musicians’ Roundtable: Navigating Major vs. Independent Labels (17:00 - 17:45)
    Speakers: Batu Akdeniz, Çağrı Sinci

Meet the Organizers

BMYD (Turkish Association of Independent Labels)
Founded in 2021, BMYD aims to unify Turkey’s independent record labels, creating a competitive, equitable landscape that fosters collaboration. Events like Independent Music Days support this mission by promoting diversity, providing educational resources, and celebrating Turkey’s creative talent. Can Bener, founder of Parydise Music Network, serves on BMYD’s board and supports the movement to empower independent artists.

MERLIN
A global digital rights agency, MERLIN represents leading independent labels worldwide. Their involvement in Independent Music Days brings an international perspective to Istanbul’s music scene, opening doors for Turkish independent artists to reach global audiences.

İBB Department of Culture and İBB Culture Inc.
The support of the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality’s cultural divisions underscores a commitment to Istanbul’s artistic future, ensuring that initiatives like Independent Music Days thrive and connect the city’s rich musical heritage with contemporary innovation.

Why Attend Independent Music Days?

• Discover New Talent: Experience live performances by emerging artists pushing the boundaries of sound.

• Networking Opportunities: Connect with artists, producers, and industry professionals to explore collaborations.

• Educational Insights: Gain practical knowledge from panels and workshops on music production, distribution, and marketing.

• Cultural Immersion: Embrace Istanbul's unique blend of East and West through music and shared experiences.

About the Venue: Müze Gazhane

Müze Gazhane, a transformed historic gasworks facility, offers a unique blend of heritage and modernity. This landmark serves as an ideal venue to celebrate Istanbul’s creative spirit, combining industrial architecture with a vibrant cultural ambiance.

How to Get Involved

Artists and Speakers: Independent artists interested in performing and industry professionals wanting to participate in panels can contact the organizers for participation opportunities.

Volunteers: Passionate individuals can contribute to the festival's success by joining the volunteer team.

Stay Updated

For the latest updates on the festival lineup and program schedules, follow BMYD (Turkish Association of Independent Labels) on social media:

• Website: BMYD Official Website

• Facebook: @bmydorg

• Instagram: @bmydorg

• Twitter: @bmydorg

Mark Your Calendar Join us from November 7th to 9th at Müze Gazhane for a celebration of independent music and culture in Istanbul.