Victor Mendoza, Director of the Contemporary Studio Performance Graduate Program

Considered by critics around the world to be one of today's finest Latin jazz artists, Mexican-born vibraphonist and composer Victor Mendoza has a career that includes performances with his own group and as guest soloist around the globe. Recent presentations include guest appearances with the World Festival Orchestra under the direction of Paquito D'Rivera and the Milan Svoboda Orchestra in Prague; sold-out shows in Queen Elizabeth Hall, London, and in Tel Aviv; and solo performances with the Carlos Chávez Symphony Orchestra in Mexico City.

What is the main focus of the contemporary studio performance program? What styles will be covered?

Contemporary studio performance is a three-semester master's program focusing on concert performance in a variety of styles and the professional production of performance projects in a variety of media with a sub-specialization in either music business or music technology. 

The goal of this program is to ensure that students have a well-rounded knowledge of performing, producing, and marketing their performance projects in a variety of media from the concert stage to various digital audiences. The final stage of this master's of music degree is a concert and a digital promotional package of this performance.

What academic and musical opportunities does the new campus in Valencia offer?

This program offers advanced studies to instrumentalists and vocalists who demonstrate excellent musical proficiency and desire to develop their performance career in any style. Students accepted into the program will perform frequently in a wide array of projects, including an emphasis on studio recording sessions. 

Besides an outstanding Berklee in Valencia faculty, students will have a chance to work with artists-in-residence such as Joe Lovano, Antonio Sánchez, Danilo Pérez, and world-class flamenco artists, as well as visiting Berklee faculty from Boston.

What characteristics are you looking for in prospective students?

We seek focused, motivated, creative candidates with excellent academic and professional backgrounds who can contribute skills that will benefit the program.

Applicants are required to hold a bachelor of music degree or a bachelor of arts degree with a major in music, with a grade average of B+ or higher and demonstrate motivation, intellectual curiosity, and promise of great achievement in their area of study.