Ballad of Nicaea

Inspired by the historical structures submerged beneath the waters of Lake İznik, this composition by Fazıl Say presents a new narrative space shaped around history, memory, and imagination. İznik (historic Nicaea), which has hosted numerous civilizations across different eras, also stands out as a historical crossroads that laid the groundwork for the founding of the Ottoman Empire. Say chooses to reflect this multilayered past not through words, but solely through the expressive power of sound and music. Nicaea is a vocalise piece—constructed entirely through vocal expression without attachment to any language—making it a rare and original example of its kind. Spanning approximately 15–16 minutes, the work challenges the soprano both technically and emotionally. In certain sections, the soprano is left completely unaccompanied, transforming those moments into deeply introspective journeys for both performer and listener. As with Say’s earlier works dedicated to ancient geographies—Troy, Patara, Klaros, Mesopotamia, and İstanbul—Nicaea seeks to function as a sonic narrative, etched into memory. It is not only a tribute to a historical site but also an exploration of the multi-layered meanings that such a place can hold— personally, culturally, and universally. This special work features Görkem Ezgi Yıldırım, one of Turkey’s rising opera stars, known for her extraordinary voice and expressive artistry.