Burak Onur Erdem Elected President of the International Federation for Choral Music
Elected with the votes of approximately 70 countries, Burak Onur Erdem became the first Turkish musician to lead the federation, which was established in 1982.
Burak Onur Erdem has been elected as the new president of the International Federation for Choral Music through the votes of federations and delegates from approximately 70 countries, earning the title of the first Turkish musician to head this important umbrella organization established in 1982.
A Historic International First
Burak Onur Erdem was elected president of the International Federation for Choral Music with the votes of federations and delegates from around 70 countries. This development made history as he became the first Turkish musician to sit in the presidential seat of the federation, which was founded in 1982.
Years of Experience and Roles
Erdem is no stranger to this international structure, having served on the IFCM board of directors since 2018. Since 2023, he has successfully held the position of vice president of the federation.
Prominent Goals in the New Era
For the new term, representation, dialogue, and access stand out as three fundamental headings. This vision aligns perfectly with the spirit of choral music, which aims for different voices to hear one another and transform into a shared whole.
International Successes in Istanbul
Erdem served as the festival director of the World Symposium on Choral Music held in Istanbul in 2023, which brought together 2,500 musicians from more than 60 countries. This major organization was held in Turkey for the first time as one of the most important events in its field.
Education and Career Journey
Born in Istanbul in 1986, Burak Onur Erdem completed his master's and doctoral degrees at the Istanbul Technical University Center for Advanced Studies in Music after his education at Boğaziçi University. He also conducted post-doctoral studies at the University of Music and Performing Arts Graz.
Institutional Works and Contributions
Serving as the conductor of the State Polyphonic Choir since 2017, Erdem founded the Rezonans Choir and the Choral Culture Association, and launched the master's program in choral conducting at Bilkent University.