The healing power of music is playing a pivotal role in helping children in Hatay rebuild their lives after the devastating earthquake that struck the region on 6 February 2023. In addition to losing their homes and neighbours, these children also lost the familiar rhythms of daily life—the sounds of their neighbourhoods and the simple joys of childhood.
As part of the European Union’s (EU) support following the earthquakes, the “Sprouts of a New Life” project has introduced 60 young people to music, offering them a sense of hope and healing. The initiative is being led by the Hatay Academy of Children and Youth Orchestra-Choir, which is run by the Hatay Symphony Orchestra Culture and Arts Association, in collaboration with Defne Municipality.
For cellist and instructor Sezgi Yıldırım, the project affirms her belief in the transformative power of art: “I have always believed in the healing power of music. Touching children with music and giving people even a few hours of joy is deeply meaningful.” Choir instructor Kübra Duman reflects on the restorative effect music has had on the children: “After the disaster, the children were deeply affected psychologically. With music, they are healing—and as they heal, so are we.”
Nurturing Future Musicians in Hatay
The children selected for the choir and orchestra have been learning solfège, vocal techniques, and how to play various instruments to establish a functioning choir and orchestra. According to conductor Ali Uğur, who also leads the Hatay Academy Symphony Orchestra, the project has two main goals: to nurture the city’s cultural talent and to help the children heal. “We aim to help the children discover their artistic potential and shape the future musicians of Hatay,” he explains.
Smiling Faces in the Choir
During choir practice, the children’s faces light up with joy. Ahmet, a young cellist, shares his gratitude: “My time here passes beautifully, and I wish it could last longer. I love playing and singing. When I grow up, I want to study fine arts and become a music teacher.”
Defne, who initially had little interest in music, recalls how her father encouraged her to join the programme: “We sing so many songs. I’ve made lots of friends, and I’m very happy. Our teachers are all wonderful.”
For Masal, whose lifelong dream was to play the violin, the project has provided an unexpected opportunity: “I play the piano, but the violin was my dream from the start. This place is like a hobby garden for me. I’ve made great friends, and I’m happier here than anywhere else.”
Ali, another young participant, shares his dream with enthusiasm: “I want to become a musician,” he says with sparkling eyes. Pelin, who plays the piano, adds: “I have lots of friends here. We have so much fun singing together.”
Nil, who writes and performs her own songs, expresses how music brings her happiness: “I am so happy when I sing my own songs.”
A Memorable Concert Performance
As Ali Uğur reflects on the project’s impact, he notes, “This project has given the children a passion for art and the motivation to carry it forward. We hope they will contribute to the city’s cultural life for many years to come.”
The orchestra and choir performed their first major concert in June 2025, with guest ensembles joining them to bring the total number of voices and instruments on stage to 180.
The performance was more than just a concert—it was a statement. Despite the devastation caused by the earthquake, Hatay’s cultural spirit is alive and well, carried forward by the youngest generation.
The children performed in Turkish, Arabic, and French, celebrating the rich diversity of Hatay’s community. Their songs of hope, friendship, and resilience echoed throughout the Harbiye Hidro Tesisleri event venue, filling the space with the powerful message that, no matter the hardship, life and culture will endure.