Feb 8 • 18:39 UTC 🇬🇷 Greece Naftemporiki

Maçkalı Hasan Tunç, one of the leading exponents of the lyre of Matsouka

Maçkalı Hasan Tunç, a prominent figure in the traditional music of Matsouka, was born in 1912 in a village near Trabzon, Turkey.

Maçkalı Hasan Tunç was born in 1912 in Örnekalan, a village in the Matsouka region of Trabzon, Turkey. The son of İbrahim Bey and Ayşe Hanım, he was the eldest of seven siblings, and his family faced significant financial challenges throughout his childhood, which limited his education to only the third grade. At the tender age of nine, Hasan suffered a tragic accident that resulted in the loss of his right eye, leading to his nickname 'Tunç' which means 'marble' in Turkish, presumably referencing his prosthetic eye.

Despite the hardships he endured, Hasan Tunç became an influential figure in the traditional music scene of the Matsouka region, renowned for his exceptional skill with the lyre. His life story reflects the resilience and determination of those who strive to preserve cultural heritage amidst personal and socio-economic challenges. The lyre is an integral part of the musical tradition in this area, and Hasan's contributions to its promotion have made him a celebrated name among local musicians and cultural enthusiasts.

As interest in traditional music and folk instruments grows, the legacy of figures like Maçkalı Hasan Tunç becomes increasingly significant. His story not only highlights the rich musical culture of the Matsouka region but also emphasizes the importance of community support in nurturing talent and preserving cultural identities. The ongoing appreciation for such artists showcases the vital role they play in continuing the legacy of their heritage and inspiring future generations of musicians.

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