The vibrant city of Abu Dhabi is once again at the forefront of nurturing musical talent with the return of the prestigious Performance Artistry & Leadership (PEARL) Programme. Organized by Berklee Abu Dhabi, the Middle East’s first branch of the world-renowned Berklee College of Music, this 12-week intensive programme is poised to shape the next generation of independent musicians in the region.
A Groundbreaking Initiative by Berklee Abu Dhabi
Since its inception in 2020, Berklee Abu Dhabi has been a beacon for contemporary music and performing arts education in the Middle East. Its partnership with DCT Abu Dhabi (Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi) underscores the emirate’s commitment to becoming a hub for cultural and musical exchange. The institute’s flagship offering is the PEARL Programme, designed to equip emerging artists with the skills, knowledge, and experience necessary to thrive in the global music industry.
Eligibility and Application Process
Aspiring musicians from the UAE and the wider Middle East are encouraged to apply for this transformative programme. Applicants must be either singer-songwriters, bands, instrumentalists, producers, or DJs to be eligible. The selection process is highly competitive, requiring candidates to submit demos of original compositions and live video performances. This ensures that only the most talented and passionate individuals are chosen to participate.
The programme includes all music genres, welcoming talents from pop, rock, soul, R&B, rap, jazz, Arabic traditional, and electronic music backgrounds. This diversity enriches the learning environment and reflects the eclectic musical landscape of the region.
Comprehensive Curriculum for Holistic Development
The PEARL Programme offers a comprehensive curriculum covering every music industry aspect. Selected students will dive deep into songwriting, production, marketing, music business, and entrepreneurship. These modules are meticulously designed to provide a 360-degree view of what it takes to succeed as an independent musician in today’s fast-evolving industry.
By the end of the programme, participants will have the opportunity to write, record, and produce their own music. This hands-on experience is invaluable, offering them a platform to showcase their talent and potentially launch their careers on a regional and global stage.
Expert Mentorship from Industry Leaders
One of the standout features of the PEARL Programme is the access to mentorship from multi-award-winning musicians and industry experts. Students will benefit from the guidance of prominent figures such as:
- Miklos Malek, a renowned music producer with a track record of success in the international music scene.
- Roger Rayan, a talented pianist and songwriter known for his contributions to contemporary music.
- Gael Hedding, the director of Berklee Abu Dhabi, brings knowledge and experience to the programme.
- Mayssa Karaa, Berklee Abu Dhabi’s artistic director, is a singer-songwriter with a deep understanding of the creative and professional aspects of the music industry.
This mentorship is a key component of the programme, providing students with insights that go beyond technical skills and encompass the nuances of the music business and the creative process.
Opportunities for Future Growth
The PEARL Programme is more than just an educational experience; it’s a launchpad for future success. Participants who excel in the programme may receive support from the Berklee Abu Dhabi Fellowship Fund, which offers opportunities to pursue higher education at Berklee College of Music campuses worldwide. This could be pivotal for those looking to advance their careers and make a mark in the international music industry.
Additionally, the programme’s strong emphasis on networking and industry connections ensures that students are well-positioned to seize opportunities in the music world. The relationships formed during the programme can lead to collaborations, performances, and even record deals, further enhancing the participants’ careers.
Cultural Impact and Abu Dhabi’s Vision
The PEARL Programme aligns with Abu Dhabi’s broader vision of becoming a leading cultural and artistic center in the Middle East. The collaboration between Berklee Abu Dhabi and DCT Abu Dhabi exemplifies the emirate’s dedication to fostering creativity and innovation. By hosting such initiatives, Abu Dhabi nurtures local talent and attracts international attention, solidifying its position on the global cultural map.
