Arif studied the ney through the traditional method known as 'meshk,' an interactional path between master and student that has existed for centuries in Anatolia. The word 'meshk' shares the same etymological root in Arabic as 'love' and the 'ivy plant,' symbolizing the plant's need to sustain itself by entwining with a sturdier tree or plant. Love, I believe, needs no explanation in any language. The 'ney' instrument maintains a deep connection with Sufism in Anatolia, largely due to Rumi dedicating his first verses in his renowned book 'Masnavi' to the ney. Arif aims to blend the sound of the ney with modern meditative contexts and healing sound therapies. He creates a 'meshk' between the traditional music of the ney and contemporary meditative practices, as they both have much in common and much to learn from each other.
Alperen was born and raised in Konya, Turkey, where Mevlana Celaleddin Rumi lived. He received training from masters there on how to perform the whirling dance known as 'Sema' and learned about Rumi and his philosophy. Now in Belgium, he wants to experience this ritual here and share it in heartwarming moments with people.