Mehmet Polat Quartet – Roots in Motion

Innovative oud virtuoso blends jazz and tradition

Virtuoso oud player and composer Mehmet Polat returns to LantarenVenster with his quartet, presenting music from his latest album Roots in Motion.

Polat brings together outstanding jazz musicians and fuses their sound with instruments from diverse traditions. His original compositions combine bold improvisations with captivating grooves, moving effortlessly from simple to complex rhythms. The result is a refreshing take on world music that balances tradition with the freedom of contemporary jazz.

Born in Turkey and based in Amsterdam, Polat is internationally recognised as a leading innovator on the oud — the Arabic lute. He expanded the instrument’s range by adding two bass strings and developed a unique left-hand technique. With roots in Anatolian and Ottoman classical music, Polat’s work explores global styles while maintaining a deeply personal and modern voice.

Line-up:
Mehmet Polat – oud
Franz von Chossy – piano
Daniel van Huffelen – double bass
Jeroen Batterink – drums

Date: Saturday 17 January 2026
Time: 20:30
Venue: LantarenVenster, Rotterdam
Tickets: €21 (incl. €3 service fee)
Note: This is a seated concert with free choice of seats.