The music scene has one heavyweight—Cagatay Kizilates, the double bass phenom, being talked about across Dubai. Forget everything you know about classical musicians; Cagatay breaks molds while synthesizing east and west.
Turkish Foundations in the International Spotlight
Cagatay’s musical journey began in Turkey’s State Conservatory system. He mastered the double bass at Turkey’s State Conservatory of Mediterranean University. He had gigs with Turkey’s National Youth Symphony Orchestra, Anatolia Philharmonic Orchestra, and Antalya State Symphony Orchestra. They all built his current status as one of the UAE’s most sought-after bassists.
A Multi-Instrumental Powerhouse
The double bass remains Cagatay’s primary artistic tool, yet he is a multi-instrumentalist. Bass guitar, acoustic guitar, keyboard, and baglama all fall under his command. His conservatory training developed an ear for nuance, and his fingers dance across frets and keys. He uses his hands and bow on his double bass with impressive skill since his conservatory years, which have perfectly trained his ear.
Double Bass as a Story
Cagatay sees the double bass as an emotional canvas. He approaches his instruments with a storyteller’s touch and calls its sound a novel, layered and introspective, along with tales of human depth. His approach is poetic yet grounded. Instrument’s tones, Cagatay’s hands steer, spin a sonic world. He describes the double bass as capable of weaving complex emotional narratives. Man, this guy’s music lands like a thunderbolt to the chest!
Dubai’s Premier Stages
Since arriving in Dubai in 2018, Cagatay has become a fixture at the city’s top venues. Hesapsız, Asil, Coca-Cola Arena, and Rixos have all hosted his performances with different orchestras and bands. In addition to her professional scenes, they often invite her to private meetings and parties. That’s why calling him a sought-after entertainer would not be wrong.
Mentor with Zeal
Beyond performing, Cagatay dedicates time to mentoring emerging musicians. He uses his conservatory discipline with real-world performance wisdom. UAE’s music students hail him as a top mentor. He shares conservatory skills and stage grit, both hands-on and raw.
Cagatay Kizilates is the face of classical musicians—technically brilliant yet emotionally accessible, deeply traditional yet boldly innovative. His growing influence on the UAE’s music scene suggests that an artist is beginning a significant career arc. UAE musicians see him as a stellar coach. For those yet to experience his artistry, the opportunity awaits at venues across Dubai.
