This blog post was authored by Joanne Dill, Project Manager in the Berklee City Music office.

Women of the World was formed to bring women musicians from across the globe onto a common platform to collaborate and create, not only through the sharing of music, but also to explore and celebrate the differences in ideologies, and cultural tenets that exist in the daily lives of women all over the world. The 10-piece core ensemble performs a varied repertoire of folk and traditional music, currently in 17 of the world’s languages. 

On February 25th, Women of the World will premier their latest multi-art production, “Koloro” at the Berklee Performance Center with 92 performers from all over the world. From Tango dancers, Indian alaaps, and African Calabash drumming, to body and mouth percussion, experimental a cappella and dance works, we pay tribute to the myriad colors in nature, culture and life.

Date: Monday, February 25th, 2013
Time: 8.15pm
Venue: Berklee Performance Center, 136 Mass Ave, Boston, MA

Berklee City Music Teacher, Annette Philip, talks about her involvement with Women of the World.

1. How did Women of the World come to be?
Women of the World was the brainchild of Berklee alumnus, Ayumi Ueda from Japan, who sought to bring women musicians from across the globe onto a common platform. The idea was to collaborate and create not only through the sharing of music, but also to explore and celebrate the differences in ideologies, and cultural tenets that exist in the daily lives of women all over the world. Currently a 10-piece ensemble with members representing Japan, Italy, India, Haiti, Mexico and the US, the ensemble has toured in Japan and North America, with performances at the Blue Note Jazz Club, Carnegie Hall, Boston Symphony Hall, BeanTown Jazz Festival, TEDxBoston, and United Nations events.
2. Where do you see its future? 
I truly believe in the power of positive collective action. Each day, we resolve situations in as peaceful a manner as possible. It can be challenging when you work with ten strong, independent, highly opinionated individuals – we disagree a lot, and it’s beautiful. It means we’re thinking!
3. How has your experience as a Berklee City Music teacher been?
First off, I am constantly amazed at the level of talent that exists in the City Music network. I am grateful and blessed indeed, to be part of the Berklee City Music Network. I’ve grown so much as a musician, and a person, and am proud to be part of an organization that is committed to bringing about change in young people’s lives.
4. What advice does Women of the World have for young women today?
  • Don’t be afraid to dream. And dream big.
  • There are no limits. Only those you put upon yourself. Which means, you have the power and the choice to free yourself from those limitations.
  • Don’t compare yourself to others. If you feel someone has a more developed skill than yours, don’t be inhibited. Instead, revel in their brilliance. And learn from them instead.
  • You have a unique voice, a unique message, a unique purpose. Find it. Learn how to channel it. And then use it. Your gifts were given to you to be used.
  • Embrace change.
  • Embrace yourself. As you are. Love yourself unconditionally. Only then can you spread love.
  • Be grateful and thankful to people surround you. Gratitude can change your mood in any situation.
5. What was a life-changing musical moment for you?
Music is the most powerful element that keeps me grounded, motivated, inspired, and joyful. It calms me down, it gets me excited, it keeps me focused, it distracts me. And all of it is wondrous to experience and live.

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