International children's and youth choirs will perform as part of the Percussion Instrument Festival today and tomorrow. Held in collaboration with the National Education Ministry and the Foundation for the Training and Protection of Mentally Handicapped Children (ZİÇEV), the ninth edition of the festival was initiated under the supervision of percussionist Dinçer Özer at the Istanbul Nazım Hikmet Culture and Arts Center. Tomorrow, the concerts will feature bands from Portugal, France and Italy. Additionally, the Hacettepe University Timbika Rhythm Group and other music groups from Balıkesir, Adıyaman, Adana, Bursa and Gaziantep will perform. The festival is hosting 160 percussionists in total, and all performers will take part in a closing concert together. As part of the festivities, five percussion music centers, one specifically for children with disabilities, will be opened throughout the year. These initiatives aim to encourage children to play music and deter them from bad or dangerous habits. It is also intended to advocate for a percussive music course in schools. Entrance for the events is free of charge.

When: On Thursday and Sunday

Where: Istanbul Nazım Hikmet Culture and Arts Center