He began to learn the oud at the age of six, and subsequently took private music lessons in Istanbul – he made his first concert appearance when he was only 13 years old. In 1924 Targan moved to New York, where his music was also well received.
At six years old, he began studying the oud; later, he received private music lessons in Istanbul – his first public appearance was when he was thirteen. In 1924, Targan moved to New York, and there, his musical abilities were highly valued.