Istanbul's cultural life, both traditional and contemporary, is easily equal to that of London and New York, if not as well publicized. Matching the city's exploding youth population, there are a growing number of festivals, galleries, new music venues and film centers and, within the last decade, Turkish artists have begun to make an international impact. There are now a number of independent record companies in the city releasing experimental works that combine Turkish traditional artists with contemporary groups and new venues where this new music is showcased. In particular, however, the Istanbul Kultur ve Sanat Merkezi ; puts on a series of international festivals equal to that of any European city, except that prices are usually lower.
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