Tamer Pinarbasi (Kanun)

Born in Karaman, Turkey in 1970, Pınarbaşı attended Istanbul Technical University State Conservatory of Turkish Music, where he developed his own technique for playing the kanun. Instead of using a misrab (plectrum) on each pointer finger, he plays with his fingernails, a technique which allows him to use all his fingers while playing. Combining this technique with his knowledge of the makam and western harmony, Pınarbaşı has become one of the world's greatest kanun virtuosos. He has made numerous recordings in Turkey, and has performed solo concerts throughout Europe. He moved to the US in 1984 and resides, performs and teaches in New York City.