Cihan Yücel’s interest in the piano began at the age of six. This passion led him to the Hacettepe University Ankara State Conservatory, where he studied with pianist Menekşe Akar for ten years, and later to The Hartt School at the University of Hartford. By 2023, Cihan had successfully earned his Bachelor’s, Master’s, Artist Diploma, and Doctor of Musical Arts degrees through his education at these institutions.

During his fourteen years at The Hartt School in the United States, Cihan Yücel was accepted into various chamber music ensembles and honor programs such as Performance 20/20 and the Hartford Musical Club. He also had the privilege of studying extensively with renowned pianists Paul Rutman and Ann Koscielny.

Cihan Yücel’s solo performances, ranging from solo recitals to appearances with prestigious orchestras such as the Turkish Presidential Symphony Orchestra, have captivated audiences worldwide. Throughout his musical journey, he has also had the opportunity to work with eminent pianists such as Vladimir Feltsman, Yefim Bronfman, Andrzej Jasiński, Stephen Hough, and Malcolm Bilson.

Today, Cihan Yücel continues to share his passion for music with younger generations, inspiring budding musicians as a member of the faculty at the Bilkent University Faculty of Music and Performing Arts.