A Knight passes away: Sir Peter Ustinov dies aged 82.

Renowned writer, actor, director and humanitarian Sir Peter Ustinov passed away on Sunday Switzerland, where he has lived for several decades. Born in April 16, 1921 to Russian parents in London Ustinov pursued an outstanding career for over his 60-year taking home a slew of awards, including two best supporting actor Oscars. Famed for his rich speaking voice and sparkling wit, Ustinov would participate in the 32nd International Istanbul Music Festival as the narrator of Saint-Sens' Carnival of the Animals to be performed by the Istanbul State Symphony Orchestra under Stefan Sanderling with Ferhan & Ferzan nder as soloists.

stanbul Music Festival Geared Up!

Built around the theme "Baroque Music" this year's, the 32^nd International stanbul Music Festival is launching its programme.

Hosting many distinguished chamber ensembles and soloists as well as orchestras from Germany, Italy, Spain and England, the festival programme will feature works of great composers from Hndel to Mussorgsky, Bach to Prokofiev, Vivaldi to Ligeti, Rameau to Liszt, mainly concentrating on the Baroque works.

The illustrious venues of the Festival will again add their historical aura to the concerts as was last year. This year's new venues include the Caria (Chora) Museum, The Bulgarian Church and Yldz Palace Arsenal Building. Hagia Eirene Museum is the main festival venue as before.

Please follow us for the 2004's festival.

You can download the preliminary programme for the 32nd International Istanbul Music Festival here.