Meet the Sala Muzik Masters 

We are starting a brand-new series at Sala Muzik.
In this series, we will introduce our team members one by one, share their life stories, and ask them questions about their field of expertise.

At the end of each article, you will have the chance to ask the next question, and our masters will personally answer it right here.
This way, you’ll get to know our craftsmen more closely and learn directly from their experience.

Erdogan Akpinar: The Master Behind Miras Ouds

Born in 1980 in Akçadağ, Malatya, Erdogan Akpinar is the master craftsman behind the well known Miras brand. His story is not just about building instruments, it’s a journey filled with passion, patience, and perseverance.

Childhood Passion: First Encounter with Wood

Since childhood, working with wood has been Erdogan’s greatest passion. While other kids were playing outside, he spent hours carving figurines and models with simple knives. Neighbors admired his work so much that they began buying his carvings, his very first earnings.

Soon, he expanded his little workshop, building birdhouses and cages for people in his neighborhood, which helped him make a name for himself.

A Life Changing Poster

One day, a poster that read “Luthier Wanted” changed his life. The ad was actually for a professional master, not an apprentice, but Erdogan didn’t give up. He accepted a very small wage and started working beside an experienced craftsman.

His talent was quickly recognized. After making his first saz, he soon became a workshop foreman and began earning on a per-piece basis.

Experience Through Hardship

With success came jealousy and challenges. Erdogan faced mobbing and was forced to change workplaces many times. In some cases, his former masters even prevented him from being hired by other workshops. But he never gave up.

Eventually, he found a place in a large workshop where ouds, bouzoukis, tamburs, qanuns, lavtas, and many other instruments were crafted. There, he spent 19 years, mastering both the theoretical and practical sides of the art.

Dreams Meet Reality: The Birth of Miras

Erdogan’s ambition was to be recognized not only in Turkey but across the world as a respected master. This dream intersected with the vision of young entrepreneur Veysel Sala. With Sala Muzik’s experience and vision combined with Erdogan’s mastery, Miras Lute was born.

The word “Miras” means “heritage”  not only something material but also the cultural and artistic values passed down through generations. That philosophy shaped the name Miras Lute: more than just an oud, it is about carrying a tradition and spirit into the future.

Beyond Mastery: Training the Next Generation

For Erdogan, true heritage is not only the instruments he creates but also the apprentices he mentors. Today, he works with four young trainees, preparing them for the future. His greatest pride is not his own work, but seeing one of his students build a flawless instrument.

Today and Tomorrow

With over 30 years in the craft, Erdogan still works with the same excitement he had on his very first day. Asking himself “How can I make it better?” is what motivates him every morning.

Each instrument coming out of the Miras workshop is more than just a musical tool, it is a story of craftsmanship, dedication, and heritage, passed on to the next generation.

Question : What Are the Differences Between Miraslute and Standard Ouds?

Erdogan Akpinar’s answer:

What makes an oud a true “masterpiece” comes down to several key elements. The qualities that distinguish Miraslute ouds from standard instruments can be summarized as follows:

• Clean and balanced sound: With Miraslute, you will not find distortion or unevenness. The sound reaches the ear smoothly and consistently.

• Harmonic clarity: Overtones do not clash or muddy each other; instead, they resonate together in harmony.

• Top level ergonomics: From the bowl to the neck, from the pegs to the bridge, every detail is designed for maximum comfort, making the oud feel like a natural extension of your hands.

• An inspiring experience: Instead of tiring the musician, it creates a bond that makes the player never want to put it down.

• Materials and craftsmanship: The finest woods, proper drying techniques, and meticulous workmanship combine to produce holistic quality.

• Unlike amateur instruments: A poorly crafted oud eventually discourages its player, whether beginner or professional. It brings no joy to the musician or the listener.

In short, Miraslute ouds stand out not only in sound quality but also in the playing experience and inspiration they bring.
A standard oud gives you “an instrument,” while a Miraslute gives you “a companion for your musical journey.”

Now It’s Your Turn 

We asked the first question, and Master Erdogan Akpinar shared his answer.
Now it’s your turn: Write your question for him in the comments below.

We will select the most frequently asked questions, send them directly to the master, and share his answers right here under this blog post.

Note: The next question will be yours – and the answer will come directly from Erdogan Akpinar himself.