Evening Meetings with Grandfather Ismail in Amasya
Elderly Man Relieves Stress by Singing Folk Songs at Concerts
AMASYA – In the picturesque town of Amasya, on the banks of the Yeşilırmak River, an elderly man named Tuna has found an unconventional way to relieve stress. Every evening, Tuna takes to the concert area and entertains his audience with a karaoke microphone, singing popular songs and folk melodies with his mouth.
During the one-hour concert, Tuna, who is fondly referred to as Dede İsmail, receives applause from his audience, which brings him immense happiness. He believes that this unique form of self-expression helps him let go of the worries and tensions of daily life.
Recently, Dede İsmail, a devoted fan of the late Turkish singer Zeki Müren, was asked if he would consider doing a duet with the renowned artist Sibel Can. Dede İsmail, who admires Can’s voice and movements, humbly replied, “I guess we can’t, I don’t think so. I’m just a beginner in this field. If she calls, I would be delighted to meet her. However, we would need to do some preliminary work for the duet. It is necessary.”
Despite the challenges that life has thrown at him, Dede İsmail remains resilient and positive. After the death of his wife, he decided not to leave his beloved hometown and to prioritize his health. The retired civil servant, who has three children and seven grandchildren, proudly declares, “Neither glasses, nor a cane, I am standing upright. I am energetic and love life. I don’t stress. I let good words enter my heart and push the bad ones behind my ears. It’s that simple.”
Dede İsmail’s dedication and vibrant spirit have not gone unnoticed. Artist Nurettin Karademir expressed his pride in having such a resilient friend who surpasses his peers.
Dede İsmail’s concerts have become a regular event in Amasya, attracting locals and tourists alike. His passion for music and ability to find joy in even the simplest of moments serve as an inspiration to others.
In a world filled with stress and uncertainty, Dede İsmail’s story reminds us of the power of music and the importance of finding solace in the things we love.
