Orhan KAPLAN

Orhan KAPLAN is a Lecturer at Atatürk University's Faculty of Fine Arts, Department of Performing Arts, where he has served since 1992. He currently holds the position of Head of Department (since 2025). His academic journey includes a Musicology undergraduate degree from Dokuz Eylul University (1985–1992) and a postgraduate degree in Performing Arts from Atatürk University (1994–1996), culminating in a thesis titled The Musical Element in Erzurum Village Theatrical Plays. His research focuses on the intersection of music, theater, and the social sciences, with expertise in performing arts, music composition, and cultural heritage.

Education:

• Bachelor's: Musical Sciences, Dokuz Eylul University (1985–1992)
• Master's: Performing Arts, Atatürk University (1994–1996)

Research Interests: Social Sciences and Humanities, Music in Performing Arts, Theater Studies, Ethnomusicology, and Regional Folklore. His work explores the role of music in cultural narratives, particularly in traditional Turkish village theater and contemporary performances.

Key Projects/Awards:

• Recipient of the Special Jury Award at the 7th International Dadas Film Festival (2011) for Entelkoy vs. Efekoy Film Music.
• Audience Award for Giordano Bruno at the 9th Inter-Directional Theater Festival (2009).
• Composer for numerous theatrical productions, including Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves (children's theater) and The Foolish Husband's Cunning Wife.

Professional Contributions: He has served as a composer, music director, and actor for institutions such as ERZURUM State Theatre, Galata Film, and municipal theater groups. Notable collaborations include composing game music for children's theater productions and film scores. He co-organized the Workshop on Scientific Paradigms in Music and Performing Arts Research in 2023.