Tiwa Savage Foundation launch first music training programme in Nigeria

The initiative, titled Berklee in Nigeria: Class of 2026, will run from 22 to 26 April and will involve 120 emerging Nigerian artists selected from more than 2,100 applicants. According to organisers, this represents the largest application pool recorded for Berklee’s international outreach programme.

Participants will take part in classroom instruction, ensemble sessions, and one-to-one scholarship interviews with faculty members. The programme will be held at the MUSON School of Music and will cover a range of genres including Afrobeats, R&B, hip hop, gospel and jazz.

Teaching will be led by six Berklee faculty members, including Dennis Montgomery, Yoron Israel, Tyrone Chase, Nichelle Mungo, Anthony Nembhard and Jason Camelio.

The programme will conclude on 26 April with a public concert and award ceremony at the National Theatre. The event is expected to host an audience of up to 3,000 people, including industry professionals and members of the public.

During the finale, selected participants will be awarded full three-year undergraduate scholarships to study at Berklee’s campus in Boston. Students will also perform original compositions developed the programme, accompanied by a live band.

The event will be hosted by Nigerian media personalities Darey Art Alade and Kiekie, with additional guest appearances expected.

The programme is supported by a number of partners, including Flutterwave, PepsiCo and the Bank of Industry, alongside local institutions and organisations.

Organisers say the initiative aims to provide structured training and international exposure for emerging artists, while strengthening links between African music industries and global education platforms.