The Morgenland Academy has taken place annually since 2015. In a one week long workshop the participants are given the unique opportunity to experience improvisation and Arabic and Persian scales and rhythms. Together with like-minded students they work in a concentrated atmosphere, under the professional tutorage and wonderful supervision of three professional musicians from the Arabic and Persian music scene.

The Academy takes place at Fattoria Musica, a former farm located in natural surroundings on the outskirts of Osnabrück. During the day the participants of the Academy rehearse in small groups, trying out new things, and in the evening they get together for jam sessions, play games or just to relax. It is not important that every participant is able to play his or her instrument or part perfectly. What is important is that they wish to explore the unknown, are open for new ideas and would like to contribute to the group.

In 2023 the workshop was again instructed by the three brilliant coaches Golnar Shahyar (Voice), Mohannad Nasser (Oud) and Afra Mussawisade (Percussion).

It was open to young musicians aged between 14 - 20 years, who should be playing an instrument or sing since at least three years and speak a solid level of English. Thanks to the generous support of our sponsors the Academy is completely free of charge for the participants, including the workshops, accommodation and (very tasty) board.

This year the program offered two full scholarships to young musicians from Turkey and Jordan, which covered visa and travel costs and the whole stay in Osnabrück and support during the application process. In order to see some more of the city, they were staying with host families two days before and after the workshop.

At the end of the workshop all involved gave a concert at a concert hall in the city center of Osnabrück, so that parents, boyfriends and girlfriends, as well as other friends and relatives could also experience and enjoy the new skills which the participants had learned.

If all that sounds interesting to you and you would like to join the next Academy, please check this website every now and then, to get informed about the next round of Morgenland Academy!

For some past participants the Morgenland Academy is…

“…a place where you can dedicate yourself completely to the music, where you can learn things about yourself and music and can simply have an unforgettable time!”

“…the best thing that has ever happened to me; both musically and personally!”

Morgenland Academy Trailer

Morgenland Academy 2022 "Dabke in Jaffa"