Meet Utar Artun

Today we’d like to introduce you to Utar Artun.

Hi Utar, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers.
My name is Utar Artun, and I’d like to take you through the journey of my musical career. Originating in Ankara, Turkey, my venture into the world of music commenced with classical percussion studies and then arranging pieces for theatrical productions. Over time, this passion for composition and orchestration propelled me into arranging movie soundtracks and original compositions for esteemed symphonic orchestras across Turkey. 

However, it was my involvement with Berklee College of Music that truly ignited my musical aspiration. I had the privilege of honing my skills alongside some of the finest musicians and mentors in the industry. This period of intense study and creative exploration laid the foundation for a diverse and dynamic career. 

Since then, my professional journey has taken me across continents, participating in workshops, multi-national awards, festivals, concerts, and album recordings with esteemed artists such as Bobby McFerrin, Dave Weckl, Antonio Sanchez, Ledisi, Grace Kelly, Dave Holland, and many more. 

Moreover, I am deeply committed to musical education and innovation, reflected in my role as a faculty member at Berklee College of Music. It’s a privilege to contribute to the development of aspiring talented musicians and cultivate a passion for excellence in music. 

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Certainly, my journey has been marked by both triumphs and challenges. One of the biggest hurdles I faced was the decision to take a leap of faith and pursue my musical education in the United States. Leaving behind my family back my home in Ankara, Turkey, and venturing into a new country with different cultural norms and academic standards was a daunting prospect. However, I recognized that in order to fully realize my potential as a musician and composer, I needed to embrace new opportunities and challenges. 

Furthermore, I experienced instances of unfairness and bias, particularly in composition department auditions and scholarship applications back home in Turkey. Despite possessing a strong composition portfolio and demonstrating exceptional talent at age of 11, I encountered barriers and biases that hindered my progress. It was disheartening to witness preferential treatment being given to individuals with preexisting connections rather than based solely on merit. It’s unfortunate to hear that the individuals selected over me for the composition department had no direct involvement in composition years later. This serves as a poignant reminder of the inherent unpredictability and subjectivity often present in selection processes. 

However, I refused to be deterred by these challenges. Instead, I channeled my frustration and disappointment into motivation, driving me to work even harder to prove my worth and overcome obstacles. It was through perseverance, resilience, and unwavering dedication that I ultimately triumphed. Years later, I emerged victorious in prestigious national and international compositions contests, surpassing those who had once overlooked or underestimated my abilities. This served as a powerful reminder that talent and determination will always prevail in the face of adversity. 

I encountered a similar situation in the past when applying for a scholarship for a prestigious summer program. Despite presenting the strongest portfolio and demonstrating my artistic abilities, the selection committee in Turkey opted to award scholarships to individuals with whom they were already familiar again. While initially disheartening, I refused to allow this setback to derail my aspirations. Today, I am proud to hold the position of associate professor, judge, and assistant director of that very program, a testament to the transformative power of perseverance and resilience. 

In hindsight, while my journey may not have been without its challenges, each obstacle served as an opportunity for growth and development. Through perseverance, resilience, and an unwavering belief in my abilities, I have emerged stronger and more determined than ever to pursue my passion for music. 

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am deeply passionate about music composition, performance, and education. As an accomplished composer, performer, and educator, I specialize in creating innovative and emotive musical works that blend diverse influences and push the boundaries of traditional genres. My wife calls me as Global Music Specialist. 

Throughout my career, I have become known for my ability to seamlessly integrate elements of jazz, classical, and world music into my compositions and performances, resulting in a unique and captivating sound. My portfolio encompasses a wide range of compositions, from symphonic works performed by prestigious orchestras to jazz-infused pieces showcased at renowned festivals around the globe. 

One aspect of my work that I take pride in is my commitment to musical education and mentorship. As a faculty member at Berklee College of Music and New England Conservatory Prep School, I am dedicated to nurturing the next generation of musicians and empowering them to realize their full potential. 

What sets me apart from others could be my unwavering dedication to artistic excellence and my willingness to take risks and explore new artistic territories. Whether it’s composing symphonic works or collaborating with world-renowned artists, I approach each project with a spirit of innovation and creativity. 

Above all, I am most proud of the resilience, optimism, and determination that have enabled me to overcome obstacles and achieve success in the face of adversity. 

Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
Here are some pieces of advice based on my experiences: 

Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth: Throughout your journey, you will inevitably encounter obstacles and setbacks. Instead of letting them discourage you, view them as valuable learning experiences that will ultimately make you stronger and more resilient. 

Stay true to your unique voice: In a world saturated with numerous artists and musicians, it can be tempting to conform to trends or mimic the styles of others. However, true fulfillment and success come from embracing your individuality and staying true to your own artistic mission and vision. Don’t be afraid to explore your unique voice and let it shine through in your work. 

Seek out mentors and collaborators: Surround yourself with individuals who inspire and challenge you to reach new heights. Whether it’s a mentor who can offer guidance and wisdom or collaborators who bring fresh perspectives and ideas to the table, building a supportive network is essential for artistic growth and development. 

Embrace failure as part of the process: Not every composition will be a masterpiece, and not every performance will go smoothly. Embrace failure as a natural part of the creative process and use it as an opportunity to learn and improve. Remember, even the most successful artists have faced setbacks along the way. 

Never stop learning and evolving: The world of music is constantly evolving, and there is always something new to learn and explore. Stay curious, be open to new ideas and experiences, and never stop honing your craft. Whether it’s mastering a new instrument, composition or experimenting with different musical styles, or delving into music theory, continuous learning is key to staying inspired and relevant in the industry. 

Believe in yourself and your abilities: Above all, have confidence in yourself and your talents. Trust that your unique perspective and creative vision have value, and don’t let self-doubt hold you back. With determination, perseverance, and belief in yourself, you can achieve anything you set your mind to. 

Contact Info:

• Website: www.utarartun.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/utarartun/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/artunutar/

Image Credits
Blu Xu