World-famous composer and classical pianist Fazıl Say began training in the Gifted Children program at the age of four, at the Ankara State Conservatory. In 1994, he ranked first in the Young Concert Artists Competition, in New York, and began his performing career. Say has been recognized with more than 30 awards for his recorded and concert performances, including the Diapason d’Or and Classica’s Choc de l’Année. In addition, he has been recognized with the ECHO Award four times, as a performer and composer. His catalogue includes the works of a range of composers, including Bach, Stravinsky, Mozart, Ravel, Beethoven and Mussorgsky. As well, Say has composed original works based on literary texts, such as the Nâzım Oratorio, the Metin Altıok Requiem, Sait Faik and Hermias. Various soloists and orchestras have performed Say’s works worldwide, including Istanbul Symphony, Mesopotamia and Universe Symphonies, 1001 Nights in the Harem (violin concerto), Hezarfen (ney concerto), Khayyam (clarinet concerto), Silk Road and Silence of Anatolia (piano concertos), Nirvana Burning, Overture 1914, Four Preludes, Symphonic Dances and Grand Bazaar.