Berklee Abu Dhabi Launches 7th Edition of PEARL Programme to Empower Emerging Musicians

The seventh edition of Berklee Abu Dhabi's Performance Artistry and Leadership (PEARL) Programme is set to commence on 9th September. The 12-week initiative aims to nurture the next generation of independent musicians from the UAE and across the Middle East, with applications open until August 18.

Abu Dhabi [UAE], August 12 (ANI/WAM): The Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) is gearing up to host musicians from the UAE and the wider Middle East as it launches the seventh edition of Berklee Abu Dhabi's Performance Artistry and Leadership (PEARL) Programme, starting on September 9. Applications are being accepted until August 18. The unique 12-week intensive programme is organised by Berklee Abu Dhabi, the Middle East's first outpost of Berklee College of Music, a leading institution in contemporary music and performing arts.

PEARL offers emerging artists a platform to develop their talents and aims to identify the next wave of independent musicians in the region. Eligible applicants include singer-songwriters, bands, instrumentalists, producers, or DJs, who are required to submit demos of their original compositions and live video performances.

The programme welcomes a variety of music genres such as pop, rock, soul, R&B, rap, jazz, Arabic traditional, and electronic music. Selected students will gain comprehensive knowledge on songwriting, production, marketing, music business, and entrepreneurship from a competitive pool of candidates.

Upon completion, participants will create, record, and produce their own music, potentially making a significant impact in the region's music scene and beyond. The programme also provides insights from industry veterans and access to opportunities through the Berklee Abu Dhabi Fellowship Fund, possibly leading to further education at Berklee College's global campuses. Throughout the programme, students will receive mentorship from award-winning musicians and esteemed faculty including music producer Miklos Malek, pianist and songwriter Roger Rayan, Berklee Abu Dhabi director Gael Hedding, and singer-songwriter Mayssa Karaa, among others.

Founded in 2020 through a partnership between Berklee College of Music and DCT Abu Dhabi, the Berklee Abu Dhabi Institute aims to revolutionize arts education in the Middle East. The PEARL programme continues to solidify Berklee Abu Dhabi and DCT Abu Dhabi's dedication to making the emirate a hub for musical and cultural exchange, equipping students with the necessary skills to forge careers in the creative industries.