World-class pan-African music school to open in Gabon, offers free workshops

The African Music Institute (AMI), established at the initiative of the government of Gabon, is part of the international network of the Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts in the USA, one of the largest and most prestigious private music schools in the world with more than 270 Grammies awarded to its alumni.

Boasting a top-class campus covering six hectares in the heart of Libreville, the new institution will offer cutting-edge facilities and equipment, including recording studios, television studios, performance halls and other facilities. Accommodation will be available for students who prefer to stay on campus.

AMI aims to attract students from all over the continent and will offer its programmes in both English and French. It will open its doors in September 2017. Registrations will begin in January next year.

The institution will have the capacity to enrol at least 140 students each year (80% for bachelor's degrees and 20% for master’s degrees in music and related disciplines). Students will have a range of subjects to major in, including songwriting, film scoring, music production and engineering, electronic production design, performance and dance. In 2018 AMI will introduce short courses, notably a 7-week overseas study programme and a 5-week course in music performance.

Free training workshop in September

From 26 to 30 September 2016, Berklee College of Music in partnership with AMI and the Gabonese government will offer a free workshop focusing on contemporary music performance. The workshop will take place in Libreville and is open to musicians from all over Africa, across all musical styles.

The organisers are looking for 180 students, who will be trained by experts from Berklee. The workshop will be conducted in both English and French. To take part in the workshop, students must be aged between 18 and 30 years old and must have been playing an instrument or singing for a minimum of six months.

To apply, complete and submit the online application form. The deadline for applications is Saturday 10 September 2016.

All applicants are strongly advised to submit supporting material demonstrating their musical experience and abilities. The preferred format is links to audio or video samples that show one’s musical abilities.

Participants will receive free accommodation and food during the workshops but will have to cover their own travel expenses. Participants will receive certificates upon completing the training.

For more information visit the African Music Institute website.