The harp, one of classical music’s most captivating and mysterious instruments, often remains in the background in orchestras but possesses a timbre that deeply resonates with the listener when heard.

One of the few individuals in Turkey devoted to this instrument is Zeynep Öykü. With her musical background, technical mastery, and intellectual depth, she stands out not only as a performer but also as a guiding figure. In a recent interview conducted by journalist Deniz Ali Tatar in her modest living space, nestled in nature in the Gölpazarı district of Bilecik, she candidly opened up. This interview was a calm yet impressive journey into the depths of music and art.

ON THE TIMELESSNESS AND PERMANENCE OF ART

One of the most emphasized themes throughout the interview was the idea that art is not transient but a timeless and universal value. Zeynep Öykü expresses this thought with the following words:

“Art is the most profound form of expression that touches human existence. It is what will remain of us.”

These words form the essence of her understanding of art. She argues that art is not merely an aesthetic pursuit but a legacy that gives meaning to life, thought, and emotion, and can be passed down to future generations. According to her, true art transcends time; it preserves its value even in the face of changing conditions and agendas.

BEYOND AN INSTRUMENT: THE HARP AND ITS SOUL

Zeynep Öykü, whose acquaintance with the harp began in her childhood, has formed a deep bond with the instrument over the years. Her focus on early music and historical harp techniques, in particular, has made her one of the rare artists in Turkey to stand out in this field. However, for her, the harp is not just an instrument to be played; it is a living being with a soul, one that breathes:

“Every harp has a soul. Each instrument that comes out of my workshop feels as if it has found new life. Hearing its sound for the first time excites me every time.”

The fact that she crafts her own instruments shows how holistic her approach to music is. She believes the harp has not only a technical dimension but also emotional, philosophical, and even physical ones.

THE HARP IN TURKEY AND SOCIETAL PERCEPTIONS

The harp is still an instrument not widely known by the general public in Turkey. Zeynep Öykü expresses this situation candidly. According to her, the harp’s delicate nature and distinct timbre can find a place in this land, provided it is introduced and explained correctly:

“The harp is an instrument whose sound beautifully suits these lands; unfortunately, its recognition is still limited.”

She also provides thought-provoking examples of how the harp is perceived in society. For instance, she smiles when mentioning the famous scene featuring a harp in Cem Yılmaz’s movie G.O.R.A.:

“If there had been a real harp sound there, people might have been even more captivated when they heard the harp for the first time.”

This observation shows that even popular culture can, unwittingly, become an opportunity for music education. Öykü sees art not as an endeavor confined to concert halls but as a living culture intertwined with society.

EDUCATION AND SHARING FOR PERMANENCE

Another subject Zeynep Öykü particularly emphasizes is education. According to her, an artist’s true success lies not only on stage but also in what they teach and pass on. As an educator, she imparts not just knowledge but also a philosophy of life:

“My own strength is limited. But through the people I train, the sound of the harp can reach more individuals. That is when this effort gains meaning.”