Omer Zülfü Livaneli, one of the most outstanding figures in the Turkish cultural, artistic and political life, has had an enormous impact on shaping the young generations in Turkey with his music and books that over the years have reached cult status.
As an outspoken intellectual, Livaneli was charged on a number of accounts
during the military coup of March 12, and was held at a military prison during
most of 1973. He was, thereafter, forced to leave Turkey and lived in Sweden
during the 1970’s where he studied music and philosophy. He then divided his
time between Paris and Athens, and returned to Turkey in 1984. The more than thirty International awards he has received over the years, reflect his great success as a composer, author, and film director.
Livaneli’s novels have been published in twenty-nine countries. His novels
became number one bestsellers and sold millions in Turkey. London, Moscow, Deutsche, and Athens Symphony Orchestras recorded his music, which was also conducted by Zubin Mehta.
His poetry and songs of freedom were performed by various artists such as Joan
Baez, Bono (U2), Udo Lindenbeg, and many Greek Italian, Spanish, American,
British, and Arabic singers. Livaneli was appointed Goodwill Ambassador and special adviser to Director General of UNESCO in 1996.
In addition to his literary and musical output, he served for a few years as a
member of the Turkish parliament in Ankara and has been contributing weekly
columns to various Turkish dailies since 1989. Livaneli has been nationally and
internationally active in promoting human rights, the culture of peace and mutual understanding between people.
