Some 6-7 years ago when I first started taking jazz artists' photos live on the stage I was considering this as a plain photographical activity. But soon I realized that it was also supporting my understanding of Jazz music. I also admire this side of the photography since my priror intention for jazz concerts in the beginning was just listening to music. Looking through the viewfinder I found myself chasing not only well captured shots for documentation purposes but rather in search of climax of music through the physical expression of the artist. Obviously the strongest expressions are found in the faces. That's why I decided to exhibit my works under the title of "Jazz in their faces".

In my photograps I have always been vigilant for the special moment between the artist and his/her music. Looking on them people should not see the cables, walls of the concert hall or extra materials which makes it difficult for the viewer to conceive the affair between the artist and the instrument. I also prefer more picturesque photos with dark areas and a grainy look which gives a deeper mood. And inevitably, pictures must also convey the feeling of jazz music through expressions.

I also perform the darkroom process of my photographs. Since I take them primarily for myself, performing also these stages provides me with a full feeling of control and accomplishment. My photographs are being published for a couple of years in the only jazz magazine of Turkey which is called "Jazz". Along the recent years the city of Istanbul, the splendid bridge between the two continents has become a significant stage for all trends of Jazz. These factors gave me a unique opportunity for following important jazz festivals and concerts throughout these years.

Soon I will be living in Vienna which is one of the most important cultural cities of Europe. I believe that being closer to the jazz events in Europe will provide me with significant opportunities for being involved in jazz events to take better photographs. For futher photos I invite you to view my web site which is also a work of myself.

Website: www.muradsekerli-jazz.net

AAJ Exhibit: Jazz In Their Faces, Volume 2

All photos copyright © Murad Sekerli. All Rights Reserved.

JOHN MC LAUGHLIN: Reunion of the great guitar trio with Al di Meola and Paco DeLucia, Istanbul Jazz Festival, 1996.

JAMES ANDREWS: New Orleans Marching Band, July 2000, istanbul Jazz Fest.

RICHARD GALLIANO: During his impressive performance, Istanbul 2000.

CHARLES LLOYD: Jazz giant leading an all star band: John Abercrombie on guitar, Billy Hart on Drums, Marc Johnson on bass. Akbank Jazz Festival, Istanbul 2001.

DIANE REEVES: Istanbul Jazz Festival 2001.

JOHN LOURIE: "The Lounge Lizard" Akbank Jazz festival, 1997 Istanbul.

RAY BROWN: Leading a great trio, Russel Malone and Monthy Alexander, Istanbul 2000.

WYNTON MARSALIS: Istanbul Jazz Festival, 1997.

MILES PERKINS: "Mingus Amungus Project" Roxy club Istanbul, during Jam session with Cristian McBride band.

RALPH TOWNER: The leader of the legend, Istanbul 1997.