Harun Izer

Harun İzer is the current Director of the Istanbul Jazz Festival, a position he has held since August 1, 2018. Prior to this role, he served as the Assistant Director of the festival from 2011 to 2018. İzer succeeded Pelin Opcin, who had directed the festival for 15 years. His extensive background in the arts includes curating various programs such as the European Jazz Club and managing significant projects like Vitrin: Showcase for Contemporary Music in Turkey, which has been part of the festival since 2017.123

İzer graduated from Istanbul University with a law degree and initially worked as an attorney in an international law firm before transitioning into the cultural sector. He has been involved with various cultural and arts institutions, contributing to music reviews in magazines and hosting radio shows on platforms like Radyo Eksen and Açık Radyo.14 Additionally, he participates in nomination committees for prestigious awards such as the Paul Acket Award and the Aga Khan Music Awards.1

His leadership at the Istanbul Jazz Festival is characterized by a commitment to showcasing both established and emerging jazz talents, reinforcing the festival's reputation as a significant cultural event in Istanbul since its inception in 1994.12