Bilkent Symphony Orchestra became the first Turkish ensemble to record internationally for a prestigious label with the release of its CD by EMI in 2003. The orchestra has over 50 CDs distributed worldwide with its own label BMP as well as labels such as Alpha, cpo and Naxos. Today, videos recorded live from concerts are offered to viewers online.
The Bilkent Symphony Orchestra plays under the baton of its former Artistic Director and Chief Conductor Isın Metin.
Isın Metin, an alumni of Bilkent University has also served as chair and dean at the faculty of music and performing arts for over 10 years. He has worked with prominent orchestras internationally in Europe, Asia and the Americas, with appearances in festivals such as Schleswig Holstein and BeethovenFest. He holds a special interest for 20th century composers and G. Mahler in particular and is the only Turkish artist to have conducted the composers 8th symphony. Metin is recognised for his artistic projects involving youth and community and as a champion of works by his nation's composers, he has received recognition and awards for his achievements in music education and contributions to the arts.
The venue for the ICMA concert is the Bilkent Concert Hall in Ankara, located between the main and east campuses of the Bilkent University. The building was constructed from December 1993 to October 1994. It consists of three floors. The acoustic consulting of the concert hall was done by the Finnish architect Matti Heikkinen. With adjustable acoustic panels and stage lift creating an orchestra pit, the hall can also be used for opera productions.