Applications are now open for a unique musical residency program bringing together musicians from around the world. The collaboration between the Gnaoua and World Music Festival of Essaouira and Berklee College of Music will offer an immersive experience blending artistic transmission and intercultural dialogue this June.
The third edition of “Berklee at the Gnaoua & World Music Festival” is accepting applications through April 20, 2026, offering professional and semi-professional musicians a chance to hone their skills in a vibrant cultural setting. The program, running from Monday, June 22, to Saturday, June 27, 2026, in Essaouira, Morocco, promises a deep dive into Gnaoua musical traditions and performances at the renowned festival.
Participants will engage in performances with musicians from diverse backgrounds, exploring a range of grooves, rhythms, and improvisational concepts. Renowned faculty from Berklee College of Music will guide musicians in merging multicultural elements into both composition and performance. Academic director Leo Blanco has designed the program to be inclusive and enriching, extending beyond technical skills to foster cultural understanding and appreciation.
The workshop welcomes musicians of all genres, from classical and Gnaoua to pop, rock, and jazz. Attendees will have the opportunity to experience the atmosphere of historic Essaouira and attend main stage performances at the Gnaoua and World Music Festival. This partnership underscores the festival’s commitment to supporting artistic development and nurturing the next generation of musicians, particularly within the Gnaoua tradition.
The collaboration between the festival and Berklee aims to combine resources and opportunities to enrich the educational, cultural, and artistic initiatives of both institutions. As Morocco World News reports, the program similarly aims to raise awareness of emerging talent and provide musicians with a singular experience. Essaouira was designated a UNESCO Learning City in February 2024, further solidifying its position as a hub for cultural exchange and education.
Interested musicians can find program details and application information here. Applicants must submit an online application and links to three videos showcasing their technical and musical abilities.
