Dr. Burak Onur Erdem: Choral Music as a Force for Peace and Connection

From political science to conducting: How choral music creates unity in a divided world

In this inspiring episode, we speak with Dr. Burak Onur Erdem, principal conductor of the Turkish State Polyphonic Choir and vice president of the International Federation of Choral Music (IFCM). Dr. Erdem shares his remarkable journey from political science to choral conducting, and explores the transformative power of collective singing. As festival director of the 2023 World Symposium on Choral Music in Istanbul, Burak offers profound insights into how choirs serve as instruments of peace, identity, and social change. From the Estonian Singing Revolution to microtonal music traditions, we discuss how choral music transcends cultural boundaries and creates genuine human connection. Dr. Erdem reflects on mentorship from Maria Guinand and Johannes Prinz, the meditative act of breathing together in choir, and why silence is as important as sound. This conversation will resonate with anyone who believes in music's power to heal divisions and build bridges. Learn more about Dr. Burak Onur Erdem: http://www.burakonurerdem.com Podcast host: Jaclyn Normandie from the Modern Conducting Academy: https://www.modernconductingacademy.com Any thoughts? Contact us: podcast@soundsgood.as