Alum

Utar Artun

Associate Professor

Affiliated Departments

617-747-6531

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Utar Artun, a native of Ankara and a Turkish-American composer, stands as a remarkable figure in the world of music. His journey began with a degree in percussion from Hacettepe Conservatory, followed by an exceptional academic career in piano and composition at Berklee College of Music and New England Conservatory, where he graduated summa cum laude and with academic honors, amassing numerous international awards and accolades. A versatile artist, Artun has shared stages and studios with musical luminaries, such as Bobby McFerrin, Dave Weckl, Eddie Gomez, Grace Kelly, Antonio Sanchez, and many others, leaving an indelible mark on the international music landscape.

Artun's musical odyssey encompasses a wide range of experiences, from symphonic orchestras and prestigious jazz festivals to international studio recordings and Hollywood film projects. His compositions and arrangements have earned him esteemed recognition, including performances in world-renowned festivals, contests, and competitions. Artun's international presence is felt through his piano performances at prestigious festivals and venues around the world, from Los Angeles to China.

Currently, Artun imparts his wisdom as a faculty member at Berklee College of Music and the New England Conservatory Prep School, nurturing the talents of the next generation. With a catalog of over 160 compositions and 300 arrangements for symphony orchestras and large ensembles, and a myriad of collaborations, Artun continues to elevate the global music scene with his extraordinary talent and unwavering dedication, cementing his place as a musical luminary.

Courses Taught (8)

The Hip-Hop Rating 4 Ensemble

ENHH-220

Mixed Pop Rating 2 Vocal Ensemble

ENMP-121

Rhythm Section Ensemble

ENMX-100

Mixed Styles Rating 2

ENMX-121

Mixed Styles Rating 3

ENMX-200

Mixed Pop and Jazz

ENPP-200

Rhythm Section Grooves for Vocalists I

ENVC-111

Private Instruction - Piano: All Levels

PIPN-XXX

Career Highlights

Assistant Chair of Boston International Music Composition (2023-2024)
Chair of the GOCAA International Piano Competition (2018-2019)
Arranger of Hollywood Arrangers and Berklee Special Programs
Band leader of Utar Artun Trio, Neotolia, and Unlimited Perception
Band Member of Grace Kelly, David Fiuczynski's Planet MicroJam, Dave Hines Group, Mehmet Ali Sanlikol's Big Band, Larry Watson, Speechless Music, and Giuseppe Paradiso Meridian 71
Recordings and performances with Kevin Eubanks, Bobby McFerrin, Dave Weckl, Jojo Mayer, Arto Tuncboyaciyan, Dave Liebman, Antonio Sanchez, Mark Guiliana, Rudresh Mahanthappa, and Simon Shaheen, among many others

Awards

Mass Cultural Council Grant (2020)
Cambridge Community Foundation Grant (2020)
JCI Ten Outstanding Young Persons of the World Culture Award (2018)
11th Arizona Underground Film Festival, Official Selection Award (2018)
13th Hi-fi Album Awards in Guangdong, China, Best Instrumental Album Performance of the Year with Yazhi Guo (2017)
9th Eczacibasi National Composition Contest, Third Place Award (2016)
Boston Microtonal Society Award (2015)
Global Music Awards, Bronze Medal (2014)
Beneficent Society Award (2014)
50th TRT ALTIN ANTEN Songwriting Contest, Honorable Mention Award (as Arranger, 2014)

In Their Own Words

I envision my mission as a composer to forge a path toward the future through the transcendental language of music. Guided by ceaseless exploration, education, and evolution, my mission and vision are to bestow upon humanity a profound legacy, illuminating the essence of tomorrow's ethos. Through disseminating knowledge and cultivating insight, I aspire to develop a visionary understanding steeped in the core values of humanity.

In guiding my students, my aspiration is for each to unearth their unique brilliance, their intrinsic gem. I serve as a beacon, illuminating the path to discovery, though recognizing that mastery in music requires dedication over a lifetime. Moreover, in the act of teaching, I embark on a journey of continual learning, acknowledging that education is an inexhaustible pursuit.

Berklee stands as an unparalleled institution, a bastion of inclusivity and excellence. Here, aspiring musicians are equipped with the tangible tools necessary for their craft. My journey has profoundly shaped my musical expression, underscoring the imperative of sharing both triumphs and tribulations with our students. By illuminating our own paths, we empower them to navigate theirs with clarity and purpose.