Launched by The American Turkish Society in memory of Arif Mardin (1932-2006), world-renowned producer/arranger and vice chairman of the organization for many years, the Arif Mardin Music Fellowship aims to further the education of promising musicians from Turkey and give them a chance to study in the United States. The program is conducted in partnership with Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA, where Mardin’s successful music career began as the first recipient of the Quincy Jones Scholarship.

About

The Arif Mardin Music Fellowship funds one student to attend the Five-Week Summer Performance Program at Berklee College of Music. The fellowship covers all program expenses, plus a stipend of $500. Consideration for the fellowship is based on merit and potential to benefit from the program in current or future music career. In 2009, the third Arif Mardin Music Fellowship was awarded to Erol Balci, a talented bass guitar player from Izmir, Turkey.

The Five-Week Summer Performance Program, now in its 22nd year, is the largest, most comprehensive summer music program available–anywhere. Every year, roughly 900 participants from across the U.S. and 70 different countries share this unique summer experience–all instruments, all contemporary styles, all levels of musical ability. The Five-Week Program, with its range of study options, world-class instructors, and state-of-the-art facilities, is a summer program that could only be offered at Berklee.

At the Five-Week Summer Performance Program, you will be immersed in all aspects of performance. Your classes, workshops, and rehearsals will focus on this important side of your musicianship. You will play in ensembles, develop improvisational and reading skills, improve your technique in weekly private lessons, and enjoy lectures/demonstrations by well-known faculty and visiting artists.

How to Apply

1. Individuals of Turkish descent or nationality, over the age of 15, with a minimum of six months experience playing their instrument (singing), are eligible to apply. (Please note that preference will be given to applicants 18 years of age and younger.)

2. Please complete the following materials and submit via mail, fax or email by April 15, 2010 to:

Office of Special Programs
Berklee College of Music
1140 Boylston Street, MS-155
Boston, MA 02215-3693
Telephone: 617.747.2245
Fax: 617.262.5419
Email: summer@berklee.edu