Cenk TEZİL

Cenk Tezil: A Musical Journey Across Borders and Genres

Born into a family deeply rooted in music, with Cenk’s father a professional musician, Cenk Tezil’s passion for music began at an early age. By the time Cenk was six, Cenk’s curiosity for the piano led Cenk to formal lessons, marking the start of Cenk’s lifelong musical journey. Cenk’s early education laid the foundation for Cenk’s artistry, and by age 11, Cenk had successfully started studying Western Classical Music at Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University State Conservatory, trumpet being Cenk’s main instrument.

During Cenk’s time at the conservatory, Cenk trained under acclaimed mentors and gained valuable experience performing in the school’s symphony orchestra. Cenk’s professional debut came at just 14, when Cenk played trumpet on a studio album in Istanbul and took to the stage as a pianist and keyboardist at a well-respected night club.

At 16, Cenk’s exploration of “groove” sparked a newfound passion for the bass guitar, which became Cenk’s primary focus. Following Cenk’s seven-year education at the conservatory, Cenk earned a scholarship to the Modern Music Academy (MMA) in Istanbul, where Cenk studied bass guitar. Cenk’s talent and dedication earned Cenk a full scholarship to the prestigious Berklee College of Music.

In 2011, Cenk moved to the United States, where Cenk’s career took an international turn. Initially planning to study at Berklee, Cenk soon found oneself immersed in New York’s vibrant music scene, performing alongside a diverse range of artists. By 2013, Cenk began touring as a bassist with orchestras on cruise ships, splitting Cenk’s time between performances at sea and in New York.

Cenk’s accolades include winning first place at the “Pizzazz Adult Talent Search” in 2013, held at Patchogue Theatre for the Performing Arts. After several years of touring, Cenk decided to settle in New York in 2015, where Cenk has since collaborated with musicians from across the globe. Cenk’s versatile performances span genres as diverse as jazz, gospel, classical, and world music. Notably, Cenk has performed with the New York Philharmonic Orchestra playing arrangements of Central American music. 

Cenk has shared the stage with renowned artists from various parts of the world, such as Americas, Europe, and Africa. Cenk’s contributions to the Turkish music scene are equally impressive, having performed with musical legends.

Having been taken to nearly 30 countries by music and with a career spanning decades, Cenk Tezil is a true citizen of the world, seamlessly blending Cenk’s classical training, global influences, and passion for music. Based in New York City, Cenk Tezil continues to innovate and inspire, contributing Cenk’s unique artistry to the international music landscape.