A Turkish imam from a prominent Islamic center in Maryland, serving the Muslim community in the Washington metropolitan area, has captivated social media with a heartfelt hymn performance alongside a New York street musician.
Dursun Sahin, the imam at the Diyanet Center of America in Lanham, Maryland, gained widespread attention after a video surfaced of him harmonizing with a street musician in New York. His unique blend of theological and musical education has allowed him to connect deeply with diverse audiences.
Sahin’s academic journey includes graduating from Samsun Imam Hatip High School and studying theology at Istanbul University. Driven by a passion for music, he pursued a master’s degree in Turkish Music at the State Conservatory of Necmettin Erbakan University in Konya, Turkey.
With over two decades of experience as an imam in various Turkish mosques, including the Uskudar Cinili Mosque in Istanbul, Sahin has spent the last six months at the Diyanet Center of America. His talent for singing hymns in collaboration with street musicians at renowned New York landmarks has sparked curiosity about Islam among passersby.
READ MORE: Muslim Board Plans to Challenge Supreme Court’s Alimony Ruling
In an interview with Anadolu Agency, Sahin shared the story behind the viral video. He recounted how he was inspired to sing a hymn in the “Nihavent Makam” – a traditional Turkish musical scale – upon hearing the street musician play. The impromptu collaboration resulted in a mesmerizing performance that quickly spread across social media, garnering widespread appreciation.
“When I heard the musician, the Nihavent Makam came to mind. I suggested we sing something together. The musician added some beautiful embellishments, and it turned out wonderfully,” Sahin said. “The spontaneity of the moment was key. We didn’t plan it, and the positive response was overwhelming. People started recording and applauding, expressing interest in visiting the mosque.”
Sahin also mentioned that he recites the call to prayer in five different maqams at the mosque, which has intrigued many listeners. “I’ve observed that this musical approach sparks curiosity about religion, both in Uskudar and here in America. People hear the sound and become interested in learning more about the Quran,” he explained.
Through his harmonious blend of music and faith, Sahin continues to draw attention and foster a deeper understanding of Islam among diverse audiences.
