Nilgün Akkerman: Her life, art and contributions to Turkish opera as a soprano

This research aims to explore the life, education, art, repertoire, working style, and contributions of Nilgün Akkerman, a soprano who has made a name for herself in Turkish opera with her artistic identity, stance, and accomplishments. Qualitative research methods were employed in the research, including document review and interview techniques. This research, based on descriptive analysis, is a monograph study in accordance with the survey model. Throughout her artistic career, Nilgün Akkerman has performed in numerous performances and festivals both in Turkey and abroad, singing leading roles in over thirty operas. With her education, vocal technique, discipline, knowledge, and aesthetic perception, she has brought to life numerous operas and characters that are constantly being performed as repertoire staples. She has successfully represented Turkish opera at international opera festivals. She has served as a mentor to young artists with her disciplined working style and the way she reflects her sophisticated aesthetic sense on stage. Considering all these qualities, Nilgün Akkerman was chosen as the subject of the study. She was interviewed using semi-structured interview questions. The study concluded that being a good opera soloist relies on the education received and the necessary infrastructure, as well as disciplined practice, strong technique, excellent acting skills, aesthetic perception, and a visionary perspective. The study also found that a soloist must continue their personal training in areas such as theater, costume, and set design, and that success is achieved through the richness of all these.