Deniz Mahir Kartal is a versatile multi-instrumentalist, masterfully playing traditional instruments like the Duduk and Kaval, alongside the Saxophone, Clarinet, Çağlama, and Guitar. With a deep-rooted passion for Anatolian music that began at the age of five, he pursued formal studies in Turkish Folk Dance and Music at Istanbul Technical University’s Conservatory. Now based in Berlin, Deniz engages in a broad spectrum of musical projects, spanning genres from traditional and classical to jazz, modern, and electronic.
He has collaborated with an array of acclaimed artists and ensembles, including Babylon Orchestra, A.G.A. Trio, Cenk Erdoğan, Sarp Maden, Ah! Kosmos, Hakan Vreskala, İpek İpekoglu, Elif, Aynur Doğan, Zigan Aldi, Derya Yıldırım, Ensemble Resonanz, Volkan İncüvez, Olcay Bayır, and Taner Akyol, among many others. His performances have taken him across Europe and Turkey, captivating audiences with his dynamic musical expressions.
In addition to live performances, Deniz composes film scores, arranges music, and teaches Duduk at the University of Hildesheim. His solo project, KafaNar, blends the rich traditions of Anatolian music with electronic beats, loops, and vocals, creating an entrancing, danceable sound that leaves a lasting impression on his audiences.