At the CJ×Berklee Masterclass held at CJ Azit Gwangheungchang in Mapo-gu, Seoul, Professors Sharik Hassan and Claire Lim from the Berklee College of Music emphasized the diversity and flexibility of K-pop while exploring its unique charm. They described K-pop as a fusion of various genres, noting that this cross-border and cross-cultural change is also occurring within Berklee.
Professor Claire Lim reported that as K-pop’s stature rises, Berklee students adopt an open attitude toward challenging various genres. She witnessed changes among students trying not only K-pop but also genres like Latin music and emphasized that these changes are thanks to K-pop’s diverse use of genres.
The two professors noted the flexibility and open attitude of Korean students. Professor Hassan evaluated that Korean students possess excellent technical and theoretical abilities, with particular flexibility in music, explaining that this stems from their exposure to various music.
During the masterclass, four youth music clubs performed, and the two professors provided detailed feedback, contributing to enhancing the students’ musical completeness. Professor Hassan generously gave specific advice, such as controlling the dynamics of the bass and using a metronome during drum performances, while Professor Lim introduced EDI, offering students a chance to experience it firsthand.
This event, part of the partnership between the CJ Cultural Foundation and Berklee College of Music since 2011, was held for the first time this year. At a time when the boundaries of music are gradually disappearing, the professors cited the collaboration of BLACKPINK Rosé and Bruno Mars as an example, predicting that such collaborations could be a hint for the future of popular music.
We look forward to more collaborations between K-pop and various genres, allowing music to continue developing. By paying attention to these global music trends, we eagerly await another innovation K-pop will present.
