Student Spotlight: Carolin Bohnemann

What’s it like to study at Berklee? Our Student Spotlight series asks current students all about their Berklee experience—what they’re learning in class, what kinds of projects they’re involved in onstage or behind the scenes, how they recharge, and of course, what they’re listening to. This week, get to know Carolin Bohnemann, a Berklee Valencia graduate student from Berlin, Germany, studying global entertainment and music business.

Follow Carolin on Instagram and LinkedIn. 

Tell us about your path to Berklee. What made you decide to come here?

As I’ve worked in different industries the past couple of years, I have always come back to my passion for music and creating great moments filled with music. I started as an entertainment manager for a German cruise ship company, traveling across the world, managing artists and technicians, and setting up high-quality shows. After that, I decided to apply to one of the best music schools to further educate myself.

What's been your favorite class so far, and what has it taught you?

One of my favorite classes so far was my elective Live Entertainment taught by Alf Olofsson in which I learned all about touring and setting up concerts. Though I do have experience in that field, it was helpful learning the theory behind it and listening to his incredible experiences as a tour manager for so many years.

What's a project you've worked on since coming to Berklee that you've been especially excited about?

As part of my master's thesis, I applied and got selected as project manager for this year's INOCON, which is a student-run music and tech conference that includes a concert held at the Centre del Carme Cultura Contemporània in Valencia on Saturday, April 29.

INOCON was founded in 2020 by a group of students and co-organized by the global entertainment and music business and music production, technology, and innovation programs. It had two main goals: to produce a high-quality virtual/onsite experience that provides practical, forward-thinking knowledge and opportunities to artists aiming to grow their careers; and to give these artists a platform to showcase innovative solutions in the music industry and in their performances.

After four years of INOCON being a solely virtual event, for the first time we are bringing it into the real world. Now, attendees have the chance to physically interact with each other, and in that spirit, we aim to create a community fueled by our passion for music that goes beyond listening to speakers on a stage. We believe in the power of collaboration and interaction, and emphasize that each individual at INOCON brings their values of community and music into the experience. That is why this year we will present student-run panels, to inspire others and share something they feel deeply excited about. In addition, based on the students’ feedback, we got music professionals on board to share their stories on topics such as venue management, the future of labels, and artists in the metaverse.

But what is a music conference without music? For the grand finale, students showcase their wide range of talents. This concert will be just as diverse and multicultural as our community—timeless, non-genre specific, and overall, epic.

Watch the full INO-CONCERT 2022: 

As a project manager, I am responsible for keeping track of INOCON and managing the executive team. I organize the daily life of the project and ensure we are meeting deadlines. Also, I am closing the gap between the student team and Berklee's communication, legal, and production and tech management teams.

The reason I applied to this role is based on my passion for events. I enjoy working in teams and collaborating across divisions sharing a common goal. Having the opportunity to make INOCON my next project, especially bringing it to the physical world, is an opportunity I didn’t want to miss out on.

How do you typically recharge or find new ideas outside of class?

In order to recharge after a long day at class, I practice meditation and enjoy talking to my family and friends. During my leisure time, I enjoy the student life at Berklee Valencia. On the weekends, lots of student events are taking place, showcasing students' talents and connecting us with each other.

When you think towards your own future, who inspires you most?

Definitely my best friend, Victoria. I met her during my undergrad while studying media and entertainment management in the Netherlands. She inspires and challenges me to be a better person and know my self worth, and keeps supporting me towards my goals of becoming a successful manager in the music industry.

What's one piece of advice you'd give to your high school self?

Taking a risk and doing something new and getting out of your comfort zone will be worth it. Do not be afraid of moving abroad, living on your own, and studying in a different language, because the people you meet and the memories you make are priceless.

Carolin’s Five Favorite Songs Right Now

1. “Flowers,” Miley Cyrus

Not only has this song been trending on Billboard at No. 1 for weeks, but it also has a powerful message for women of being independent and overcoming heartbreak.

2. “Unholy," Sam Smith ft. Kim Petras

This song has such a powerful message that it went viral the moment that Sam Smith released it on his TikTok account. Also, I am a huge fan of Kim Petras since she is a German singer and finally got her first No. 1 hit.

3. "I'm Not Here to Make Friends," Sam Smith

As a huge RuPaul's Drag Race lover, once I heard the sample of the show's opening sentence in this song I could not stop listening to it. The song is ingeniously made, and every second is worth listening to.

4. “Unstoppable," Sia

This song always puts me in a better mood and boosts my confidence. I highly recommend listening to it.

5. "Come Back Home," Calcum Scott

After getting the Golden Buzzer on Britain's Got Talent, I started following him. Once he released this song, it became one of my favorites.