Closer Look Summer Indie Artist Spotlight 2019: Emrah Kotan
Classically-trained percussionist Emrah Kotan (middle) joined “Closer Look” in studio for the program’s Summer Indie Music series alongside fellow musicians (L to R) Gary Motley, on keyboard, Marla Feeney, on violin and clarinet, Ramon Pooser, on upright bass, and Ali Barr, on trumpet.
Grace Walker / WABE
As a world jazz musician and classically-trained percussionist, Emrah Kotan draws inspiration from sounds from around the globe.
He joined “Closer Look” in studio for the program’s Summer Indie Music series alongside fellow musicians Gary Motley, on keyboard, Ramon Pooser, on upright bass, Marla Feeney, on violin and clarinet, and Ali Barr, on trumpet.
“My music pretty much is a blending of a lot of different cultures and my musical experiences since I was a little kid,” said Kotan.
Kotan moved to the United States from Turkey, where he graduated from a music conservatory.
Once he arrived in the United States, he continued his musical education at Georgia State University and earned a Master’s degree in jazz studies.
Today, Kotan is both a musician and a music educator. He is currently serves as the Director of the Jazz and World Percussion Ensembles at Agnes Scott College.
He balances his time between gigs, teaching and his family.
“I’m a lifelong learner and a lifelong student of [music] ” he said. “…I’m not complaining whatsoever.”
To hear more of Emrah Kotan’s music, click here or listen to the full interview above.
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