Koptagel, Yuksel (1931–)

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Koptagel, Yuksel (1931–)

Turkish composer and concert pianist. Born in Istanbul, Turkey, Oct 27, 1931; granddau. of General Osman Koptagel, famous commander from Turkish War of Independence; studied piano, theory, and composition with Turkish composer Cemal Resit; journeyed to Madrid and Paris for further work with Joaquin Rodrigo, José Cubiles, Lazare Lévy, Tony Aubin, and Alexandre Tansman.

Known for compositions of French and Spanish interpretation, gave 1st concert at age 6; at Paris Conservatory, won several 1st prizes both for composing and for piano; became a concert artist and performed with many international orchestras as a piano soloist; a member of the Istanbul State Symphony Orchestra, also served on jury of Schola Cantorium and École Superieur de Musique.