Nedim Katgi, Founder & Former Music Director

Born in Istanbul, Katgi graduated from Istanbul Technical University State Conservatory in 1980. He worked as an assistant professor at the same academic institute between 1980 and 1983. He created his own band Otobüs Yolcuları (Bus Passengers), worked with many artists and earned many professional music awards. Nedim Katgı and his orchestra performed with the popular singers of Turkey throughout the years. 

For over 30 years, Katgi taught music to children at the American Ataturk School in New York while continuing his professional music career. His passion for Turkish Classical Music brought him into establishing New York Ataturk Chorus in 2008. Under his leadership, New York Ataturk Chorus gave many concerts and worked with a diverse group of talented musicians. 

Katgi took his last bow at his final performance with the chorus at the Carnegie Hall in New York on November 2, 2019, and passed away on January 26, 2021. Katgi's philosophy was to provide those who love to sing with the opportunity to learn and perform exceptional Turkish music.

Today his legacy continues with the New York Ataturk Chorus. He will always be with us in our hearts and in our music.