Cenk Esen is an Istanbul-born, London-based pianist and composer. Born to a family of musicians, Cenk grew up listening to post-bop classics alongside mid-noughties pop, shaping a musical sensibility as diverse as the soundscapes of his hometown. After graduating from the Berklee College of Music, where he was a student at the prestigious Global Jazz Institute, Cenk moved to London, quickly establishing himself as a mover and shaker in the scene. The last few years have seen him tour and collaborate with artists like Kamaal Williams, Romarna Campbell, Şam, MckNasty and Tom Driessler; perform in venues like Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club, Cadogan Hall, Southbank Centre and Royal Albert Hall; and events like Montreux Jazz Festival, London Jazz Festival and We Out Here Festival.

Cenk’s first full-length album “It’s a Family Thing” (2021) had its live debut at the Istanbul Jazz Festival in 2021. 2022 saw Cenk collaborate with US-based drummer Jasper Williamson on “Peace Achievement” (2022), adding to two self-released EPs. His sophomore album, recorded at London’s hallowed AIR Studios and slated for a late 2024 release, is sure to make waves for the young talent.