If you missed it, here is the link for more – https://www.berklee.edu/
But why are we talking about this news from February today? Low and behold our very own Lawrence Li has been accepted by Berklee College of Music with scholarships! I already have goosebumps thinking of him holding the Grammy one day and me in the audience brimming with pride as he accepts the award and mentions P.E.N. Music as his first introduction to music. I still recall when he walked into the school with, as he claims, “zero knowledge of music” but an attitude that was beyond his years – a total belief in our program and our teachers, eagerness and capability to learn and stay the course with our guidance, and his hard work towards the course.
Okay, so back to the present, I am still cherishing the news and yes, spreading it through the community, wondering how many more of my current students are destined to follow the path. Lawrence has suddenly converted this to an achievable reality, not just for himself but also his fellow students as I hear them cheer, congratulate and hope to learn together at Berklee! A P.E.N. Education Centre alumni at Berklee! What? Dream big and make them a reality is a mantra I totally follow for my students and school.
Did you know Berklee was founded by another Lawrence? An M.I.T. graduate, Lawrence Berk, whose son Lee was the inspiration after the branding “Berklee”. A very interesting read here – https://www.theguardian.com/
Do you also know that when it comes to Contemporary Music, it is second to none. Read here for a Juilliard versus Berklee discussion – https://www.
Congratulations Lawrence once again and wishing you much success and satisfaction as you join Berklee, an honour indeed. Make us proud, as always!
Back to building the best music program in Oakville! Happy wins, until the next!