For Beste Hira, music is more than just sound, structure or performance. Her music speaks volumes about her deep understanding of rhythm, harmony and atmosphere. These qualities stem from more than just passion. They also stem from a solid musical education and influences. She grew up in Istanbul, Turkey, and developed an interest in music from an early age. Her family didn’t just listen to music in the background; they enjoyed it and used it to tell stories.
She studied music education with a focus on classical instruments such as the cello and piano at Ondokuz Mayis University, which had a significant impact on her appreciation of sound. This foundation sets her apart from many other DJs and producers. Hira’s music is a blend of formal precision, tone colour and dynamics that you can hear, but which does not dominate.
When she moved to the Netherlands in 2019, it wasn’t just a geographical change — she was stepping into a scene that could truly challenge and inspire her art. Amsterdam offered her more openness than the Turkish club scene, but not quite enough. There are rooms for experimental techno, and places to get together with producers who think of sound as a language, not a formula. It was then that her sound began to take shape: trippy, fast and dark, yet with an inner compass that focused on musical depth rather than just raw intensity.
Her first releases demonstrate clear development. Her 2020 EP, ‘Bordo,’ marked the beginning of her journey into blending techno with classical sensibilities. In tracks like these, you can tell that she doesn’t just play music, she also composes it – with an intuition that grows from experience. The follow-up EP “COS” from 2021 showed a clear expansion of her sound spectrum: more experimental, with a more complex rhythm and a more open sound design. In 2022 came the ‘Growlin’ EP,’ which further strengthened their reputation in the European underground scene. The productions here have a more confident, focused and precise sound, like a blend of everything they have learnt so far.
However, Best Hira is not an artist who defines herself solely through releases. She mainly expresses herself on stage, in clubs, and through immediate audience feedback. She has played at major international venues such as Berghain, Hör Berlin, Vault Sessions, Awakenings, De School and Amsterdam Open Air. This demonstrates her rapid ascent to a level where sound and attitude take precedence over image or trends. Her sets have a clear three-part structure: introduction, development and resolution. This structure reflects her approach to composition. Although she is a classical musician, she is also into techno.
Hira’s music is a cool mix of different electronic styles. Her techno is dark, driving and hypnotic, without becoming monotonous. She uses minimal patterns to build tension, adds subtle dub elements and works with atmospheric sounds and the occasional, almost organic break. Occasionally, a subtle melody emerges that’s barely noticeable, but its presence is undeniable. Her sound is unique, and that’s because she can combine structure and instinct like nobody’s business. Her knowledge of harmony and counterpoint is intuitive rather than academic, giving her work a sense of completeness.
She has a talent for choosing the right labels and partners. Rather than chasing big names, she works with smaller, independent labels like Schimmer Records, which are known for their high standards and artistic freedom. Her collaborations just kind of happen naturally. Often, they stem from working together on projects such as events or studio residencies. Throughout this process, she remains true to her vision. She’s looking for real-life interactions, not just features. Her brother, who works in sound engineering, sometimes helps her with technical aspects, making her music production more professional without making it too polished.
In her artistic approach, Hira combines what many in electronic music are looking for: a connection between academic musicality and emotional directness. Her music is a physical experience, but it’s never one-dimensional. It’s about movement, but also about awareness. This duality — intellect and instinct, structure and freedom — is what sets her apart. She’s not afraid to mix things up stylistically. Techno is at the core, but you’ll also hear hints of minimal, dub and experimental electronic influences, along with subtle melodic and orchestral elements.
As for her artistic future, it’s hard to say what lies ahead. It would be great to see them focus more on live music, perhaps incorporating elements from their classic past. Releasing a full-length album would allow them to delve deeper into their aesthetic. She usually prefers the EP format because it’s concise and effective. Regardless of what she decides: Best Hira is a thoughtful musician who imbues her music with meaning.
She’s a DJ representing a new generation of electronic DJs. She doesn’t separate technology and emotion; she combines them. Her sets are like journeys through different soundscapes, and her productions showcase her ability to combine precision and emotion. In a scene that often relies on making an impact, Beste Hira stands out. She looks for depth without losing sight of the dance floor. Listen to her music and you’ll hear more than just techno; you’ll also hear a story about her background, her courage, her training and how she uses sound to create a unique identity.