Turkish musician Ezgi Serim becomes world runner‑up in New York

Musician Ezgi Serim was awarded the second‑place prize in the popular vocal category of the professional division at the New York International Classical Music Competition. With this achievement, Serim added a new accolade to the degrees she has earned internationally.

Musician Ezgi Serim, who has made a name for herself with successes in international competitions, added another award to her career. Serim earned the second‑place prize in the popular vocal category of the professional division at the New York International Classical Music Competition.

The artist, who continues her musical work with Turkey’s leading jazz pianist and composer Ali Perret, has been returning with successive placements in competitions held in various countries in recent months.

Serim won first place in the jazz vocal category of the London‑based The Song competition in 2025. In December 2025, the artist took second place in the professional vocal category of the Los Angeles International Online Music Competition, and in January 2026 she marked a significant achievement at the Swiss International Music Competition. Evaluated by the jury as “high professional level” in the professional jazz vocal category, Serim left the competition with a first‑place prize.

Support from a Grammy‑winning name

Serim’s rise on the international stage has also drawn attention from prominent figures in the music world. The artist gained momentum in her work by receiving support from Evren Göknar, Capitol Records’ Grammy‑winning recording engineer.

The latest award from New York, continuing the successes Serim has achieved in various countries, is regarded as one of the key turning points in the artist's international career.

Who is Ezgi Serim?

Ezgi Serim began her musical journey at age six in the Izmir State Symphony Orchestra Children's Choir, and at age twelve she started full-time piano studies at Dokuz Eylül University Izmir State Conservatory.

At just 16, a 'Superior Talent' report on Serim was issued by Prof. Heidi Köhler from Hannover University of Music, Theatre and Media. The artist, who earned scholarships from the Goethe-Institut, Rotary Club and Konrad Adenauer Foundation, was also accepted into Franz Liszt Weimar University of Music.

Having laid her foundation with classical music training, Serim continues her career with jazz and vocal studies, strengthening her position in the music world with the prizes she has earned in international competitions.