Rebecca Brown

Major: Performance
Semester Abroad: Fall 2023

What made you decide to study abroad at Berklee Valencia?

Prior to Berklee, I was looking into studying abroad when I was pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Spanish at the University of Tampa. Unfortunately I never had the opportunity due to COVID so I was beyond thrilled to discover that I’d be able to combine my two passions for music and the Spanish language at Berklee Valencia.

How did that experience expand your musical talent?

Since there were less people at the campus in Valencia compared to Boston, I found myself collaborating with friends much more often whether it was to accompany them for their recital prep or record guitar in the studio for a class project. I frequently attended weekly jam sessions at Matisse, which was a local nightclub that Berklee students would go to every Thursday to perform or hang out with friends. It was at Berklee Valencia where I continued to bandlead and consequently met my future drummer, Carlee Morales, who would continue to accompany me through to my senior recital.

What was your favorite class at Berklee Valencia, and why?

My favorite class was the Contemporary South American Folkloric Music Ensemble directed by Professor Mariano Steimberg. I enjoyed participating in this ensemble as I was exposed to traditional styles of music native to South America, such as candombe from Uruguay, chacarera from Argentina, in addition to Brazilian styles of music sung in Portuguese. I find that ensembles are a great way to meet other students who share the same passion for a specific style of music whilst developing our craft on our respective instruments.

What's one activity or project you participated in that's particularly memorable?

Performing at Un Lago de Conciertos with the Sam Allen Band. Almost immediately upon arriving in Valencia, I was asked to play guitar in Sam band and we ended up playing his original music at one of the coolest venues I’ve ever seen! For many of us, it was the first time performing in front of the Valencia community and I feel very fortunate to have shared this experience with such talented musicians on a stage that was literally constructed on a lake!

What surprised you the most about Valencia?

Everyday on my walk to school, it warmed my heart to see a group of Argentines drinking mate in the park. Since I started learning Spanish at school, I have always been a big fan of the Argentine culture and was amazed by how many Argentines I came across, not to mention my amazing ensemble professor, Mariano Steimberg!

What's your fondest memory of your time abroad?

Meeting Mary Spender. I had been watching videos of Mary Spender on YouTube for a few years and was beyond excited when I heard that she’d be visiting Berklee Valencia. I attended her clinics and later had an exclusive one-on-one session with her over coffee in the Cantina on-campus. It was like catching up with an old friend, since we both come from England and I was able to ask her questions about her experience in the music industry currently and before starting her YouTube career.

What was your greatest challenge, and how did you overcome it?

The biggest and most rewarding challenge was taking part in Les Arts: La Mano Ganadora. It was challenging due to the various genres of music that I’d never played before, but the hard work was worth it as it brought me closer to my fellow undergraduate and master students who were also involved in the production.

What do you know now that you didn't know before studying in Valencia?

This was my first time living in Spain for an extended period of time. I quickly grew accustomed to taking the bus to school, and when it was nice weather, I took in the beautiful sights and walked. I liked how the supermarket was very closed to Livensa Living.

What song best captures your experience in Valencia, and why?

Eterno Junto a Ti (Valencia CF) by Bombai, especially when they sing “Valencia, eres parte de mí” (Valencia you are a part of me) because it perfectly captures my deep connection with Valencia even after my study abroad program was over. The song reflects the pride of the Valencian community as it was recorded by a band called Bombai who are native to Valencia, themselves.

What would you say to someone who is considering studying abroad?

Take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way as it is a great way to meet new people and experience a new culture.