One of North Cyprus’ most accomplished contemporary artists will be in the British capital next week with his new band as part of the Turkish Cypriot community’s annual celebrations for Peace and Freedom Day. The events, which include a  20 July concert and reception, a five-day photography exhibition, and a community talk by TRNC Deputy Prime Minister Kudret Özersay, have been put together by the TRNC London Representative Office headed by Ambassador Zehra Başaran.

Pianist, producer and composer Hüseyin Kırmızı heads-up four-piece Novaera, which combines Turkish Cypriot folk music with modern melodies and rhythms. Kırmızı’s bandmates are bass guitarist Çığır Kazımoğlu, drummer Fuat Kutrafalı and violinist and vocalist Miray Çakır.

The talented quartet will be performing at the TRNC London Office’s Peace and Freedom Day reception on Friday 20 July. The event, which is open to the public, is taking place at the Churchill Hotel Hyatt Regency London, on Portman Square near Marble Arch. Music starts at 7pm with a reception after.

Entrance is free, but there is limited space at the venue, so prior registration is essential. RSVP by calling 020 7631 1920 (weekdays only, 9am-5pm) or email london@mfa.gov.ct.tr with Peace and Freedom Day London in the subject line to confirm the names of guests.

Click here for info on TRNC Deputy Prime Minister Kudret Özersay’s 19 July Wood Green talk and free bus travel for those coming from South London

TRNC Deputy Prime Minister Kudret Özersay will be making a keynote speech at the reception. He will also open a photography exhibition by Turkish Cypriots titled Biz/Us at 3pm on Friday 20 July. The exhibition will run until Tuesday 24 July at the Yunus Emre Cultural Institute, located at 10 Maple Street, Fitzrovia, London W1T. Entrance to the exhibition is free, however note the venue is closed on Sundays.

On Thursday 19 July, Özersay, who also doubles up as the TRNC’s Foreign Affairs Minister, will be giving a talk in Turkish to the community about his Project for Overseas Turkish Cypriots (Yurtdışı Kıbrıslı Türkler Projesi). The talk will take place at the Grand Palace Banqueting in Wood Green, with transport laid on for those wanting to attend from South London. Read more details here, including how to reserve your spot on the South London bus.