January 25, 2017
Junior Derek Omari ’18 was one of about 85 vocalists and instrumentalists selected to participate in the 2017 Berklee Music Workshop in Gabon. Led by faculty from the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts, and organized by the Gabonese Republic, the workshop was designed to foster the discovery and study of performance techniques in contemporary music.
For one week, Derick, who taught himself how to play the piano and flute, joined the other participants in sessions aimed at developing their skills to be well-rounded contemporary musicians. “There was something new to learn every day,” says Derick. “One important lesson was the power of unity. Even though we all came from different backgrounds, with different music styles, we had to come together in the end to produce music together. I have gained a great sense of appreciation for African talent, and most importantly, a desire to keep getting better.”
The workshop offers the opportunity to experience Berklee-style classes, typically over a three- to five-day period, closer to one’s home country. Participants explore music via lectures, labs, master classes, ensembles, workshops, jam sessions, special events, panel discussions, and live performances.
For Derick, the workshop was a step closer to his goal. “I went there to acquire music knowledge so I can share with people in Ghana,” he says. “I want to help empower people through music, to give them that education so they can benefit from it.” At Ashesi, Derick leads the Berekuso Music Project, an after-school initiative that teach pupils in Bereksuo to play musical instruments. In the last year, the community engagement initiative has expanded to include a choral group and a flute ensemble.
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