Kemençeci Nikolaki (mid-19th century – c. 1915)

Kemençeci Nikolaki was born and died in Istanbul. For years, he collaborated with Yiannis and Antonis Kyriazis (see Antonis Kyriazidis / Lavtacı Andon), performing with their ensemble at Antonis’ venue in Galata. Sources describe him as an exceptional kemençe (lyra) player. Though his teacher remains unknown, he was renowned for his skill in the köçekçe repertoire and oyun havaları, performing in kabasaz ensembles (lyra, laouto, percussion). His compositions were mainly instrumental, including peşrev and semai, but he also wrote pieces in the şarkı vocal form.