Toker Messing Around

About

Toker Messing Around is a unique musical project by pianist and composer Hakan A. Toker, who transforms beloved classical themes into vibrant jazz, Latin, Baroque, and Turkish styles. The album invites audiences into an interactive experience where spontaneous improvisations are crafted live, responding to requests much like the legendary Franz Liszt did two centuries ago.

Hakan A. Toker's mastery spans Western classical, jazz, and Turkish traditional music. His virtuosic and humorous improvisations bring a fresh perspective to world-famous melodies, blending genres and cultures seamlessly. The project showcases Toker's ability to reinterpret classics with a contemporary and multicultural twist.

In live performances, Toker performs solo or with his ensemble, engaging audiences by inviting them to suggest themes. These requests become the foundation for impromptu improvisations that highlight his creativity and technical prowess.

Project Options

A — Solo Piano

Hakan A. Toker's solo set featuring album arrangements, improvisations and audience requests.

Required backline: Tuned acoustic grand piano, adjustable bench, talkback mic, two piano mics, compact rug for small percussion.

B — Trio

Piano, double bass and drums / percussion lineup.

Additional needs:

Quality drum kit with throne
Guitar stand for the bassist
Four stage monitors (separate mixes preferred)
Main PA matched to venue size
Front-of-house console and experienced engineer

C — Expanded Ensemble

Seven-piece version with piano, clarinet, qanun, oud, bass, drums and percussion.

All B trio requirements plus individual microphones, monitors and music stands for each musician
Carpeted riser (min. 2×2 m) for the percussion setup

Additional Information

• In addition to the pieces from the album Messing Around…with the classics, concerts also include improvisational sections and surprising arrangements.

• The program lasts approximately 75 minutes (one act).

• If a harpsichord is available in the venue, several pieces may be performed on it.

• Flights and accommodation: 4 round-trip tickets, 1 single and 1 double room (2 nights).