Ceren Temel

Istanbul-based award-winning jazz musician, improviser, songwriter, and music educator Ceren Temel defines herself as a versatile artist and lifelong learner.

She performs a wide repertoire ranging from bebop to modern jazz, gaining recognition for her unique interpretations of jazz standards and original compositions. In 2024, Temel represented Turkey at international events such as the Bansko Jazz Festival and Sochi Jazz Festival.

In 2022, she collaborated with Berlin-based spoken-word artist Lady Gaby on the women’s rights and feminism-themed project I’m the Voice and I Can’t Be Silenced! Using loop techniques, she highlighted vocal improvisation. Drawing inspiration from jazz, pop, rock, and R&B, her Iki Loop Project featured concerts performed with only drums and vocals.

In March 2022, Temel released her debut EP, The Rewind, consisting of five original compositions, on digital platforms. Reflecting both traditional and contemporary elements of jazz, The Rewind explores themes of personal struggles and achieving inner peace by overcoming challenges.

As an educator, Temel taught jazz vocal lessons at Hacettepe University Ankara State Conservatory for three years from 2019 to 2022. Since 2023, she has been teaching ear training and basic musicianship at Kadir Has University while pursuing her doctoral studies in vocal jazz improvisation at Istanbul University State Conservatory. She also mentors students through private jazz vocal lessons and home-based workshops.

Ceren Temel continues to share her passion for music, contributing to the Turkish jazz scene through both her performances and her work in education.