Meet Burçin Aktükün | Sound Engineer, Record Producer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Burçin Aktükün and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Burçin, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I can tell you about how I chose my own job, but not about starting my own business. Because I am currently working as a Tonmeister at TRT, the largest media organisation in Turkey. I discovered the magical world of music at a young age, and I decided where I would take part in this magical world in my 20s. When I was playing an instrument or singing, I always felt as if I was playing and singing into the void. Therefore, the idea of recording the songs I played or sang began to weigh heavier on me. Since I don’t like to be in the foreground, instead of playing instruments and singing, singing in the background and recording those who play instruments… This was just right for me. In the 1990s, I bought my first computer and started to pursue this dream. In those years, there were no departments related to music technology in universities in Turkey. In 2000, when I started to work as a lecturer at Sakarya University State Conservatory, I opened the Music Technologies course. In 2003, my book ‘Computer Usage in Music’, one of the first books in its field in Turkey, was published. During the 15 years I worked at the university, I have been involved in many national and international projects both as Tonmeister and technical consultant. In 2015, I started to work with Tonmeister staff at TRT, Turkey’s largest media organisation. I have recorded hundreds of solo albums and mixed & mastered these recordings in the institution where I work. Throughout my career, I have been privileged to work on numerous national and international projects as both a Record Producer and Sound Engineer, collaborating with a diverse array of artists. Notably, I have engaged in an extensive and ongoing partnership with composer Mustafa Yazıcıoğlu, who specializes in film and video game music. We have collaborated on mixing and refining compositions in his studio in Los Angeles, and continue to do so.

I firmly believe that collective efforts often ignite creativity, and working alongside like-minded individuals can significantly enhance productivity. In essence, the quality of the team you collaborate with is as crucial as the work itself.

For instance, our latest video game project, “New Cycle,” has been recognized at multiple festivals in the United States, earning accolades in both the Best Video Game Music and Best Sound categories. This experience underscores the profound impact of dedicated collaboration and artistic synergy.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
There are actually a lot of things people outside the industry don’t know. Many people, when they visit me during a music recording session or live broadcast, can’t hide their surprise. When they listen to the instruments and sounds acoustically during rehearsals, and then hear them after they’ve passed through my mixer, they can’t believe the difference. The same goes for the film industry. When people watch a movie, they realize, after seeing me work, that one of the things that truly impacts them is the film’s music and mixing.

Another misconception people outside the industry have is that we record anyone’s album or accept every project that’s offered to us. I feel I need to be somewhat selective in this regard and don’t accept every project. I mostly take on projects where I believe I can add value.

Another thing they don’t know is that those in this profession go through very rigorous training. When I explain the training I’ve undergone to do this job, they are often quite surprised. But in the end, when people outside the industry see me working on an album recording or film project, they realize that we are the most important part of the process, and that we are the invisible heroes behind these types of projects.

Starting a new project always excites me. As I think through each phase of the project and imagine the finished version, I feel a great deal of excitement.

Reaching my current professional level, of course, wasn’t easy. I faced many challenges. But my respect and passion for what I do helped me overcome these difficulties. One of the most important things I’ve learned in my career is that if you don’t combine talent with hard work, it amounts to nothing. Yes, talent is necessary, but it’s hard work that takes you to a high level.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Los Angeles is a city full of entertainment, culture, and beauty. Here are some places and experiences I recommend for a one-week trip:

Hike up to Griffith Park to see the Hollywood Sign. This iconic landmark is located in one of the most scenic spots overlooking LA. Also, explore the Hollywood Walk of Fame and see the handprints of stars along Hollywood Boulevard.
If you’re a movie enthusiast, visiting Universal Studios for a behind-the-scenes look at movie sets will be a fantastic experience.
For art lovers, visit the Getty Center. It’s famous for both its art collections and its stunning views.
Enjoy the sunshine and take a walk along the beach. Renting a bike to explore the shoreline in Santa Monica can also be a fun activity.
Los Angeles County Natural History Museum: If you’re interested in learning about LA’s unique history, this museum is a must-visit.
Descanso Gardens: Located in La Cañada Flintridge, this botanical garden boasts a magical atmosphere with camellias, a rosarium, woodland areas, and a Japanese Garden.
For entertainment, restaurants, and nightlife, explore Sunset Boulevard. You might even catch a concert or some live music.
In Venice, you’ll find not only the beach but also vibrant street art and a fun, lively atmosphere.
Walt Disney Concert Hall: This architectural masterpiece is an excellent place to enjoy a concert.
And don’t forget, LA offers plenty of dining options too. If you love seafood, Nobu in Malibu or The Lobster in Santa Monica are great choices. For those who enjoy Korean cuisine, be sure to check out the restaurants in Koreatown.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First of all, I need to thank my mother, Taylan Aktükün, who guided me towards music starting from elementary school. Thanks to her, I first took trumpet lessons and later received classical guitar training. After discovering Music Technology, I would also like to thank my dear friend, Film Music Composer Mustafa Yazıcıoğlu, who introduced and guided me into the Film and Game music industry. I am grateful to everyone who has contributed to my journey to this level.

Website: www.burcin.aktukun.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/burcinaktukun

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/burçin-aktükün-4980719b/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@burcinaktukun

Other: https://open.spotify.com/intl-tr/album/73zlidUbYX7NR1Kp6uORzM

https://www.imdb.com/name/nm4412648/