Giuseppe Donizetti's Musical Memoirs

EMRE ARACI PODCASTS

Giuseppe Donizetti's Musical Memoirs

This podcast discusses Dr Emre Aracı's article published originally in Turkish in the January 2025 issue of Andante magazine (no: 219), where he details his discovery and subsequent presentation of a previously unknown manuscript, Giuseppe Donizetti's Musical Memoirs. The manuscript, in the collection of Mr Erol Makzume, includes over one hundred compositions by the composer Giuseppe Donizetti (elder brother of Gaetano Donizetti) and chronicles his life in 19th-century Istanbul. Donizetti served as Instructor General to the Imperial Ottoman Military Bands from 1828 until his death in 1856. The compositions in the collection blend European and Ottoman musical styles, reflecting the city's diverse cultural landscape during the Tanzimat era. Aracı's account narrates the serendipitous journey of acquiring the manuscript, culminating in a performance of its music. The article highlights the manuscript's historical and musical significance, showcasing a previously hidden chapter in Istanbul's musical heritage. The discovery of Giuseppe Donizetti's Musical Memoirs is a significant event for musicologists and historians alike. It provides an exceptional window into the cultural and musical landscape of 19th-century Istanbul and offers a deeper appreciation for Giuseppe Donizetti's unique contribution. The manuscript provides evidence of his role in Ottoman society. Dr Aracı’s article makes a strong case for the importance of this find.
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