Berlin opens new horizons for Maltese music student

Nicolas Fenech recently completed a BA (Hons) in Music Production at BIMM University Berlin, made possible thanks to the support he received from the Malta Arts Scholarship Scheme.

Germany is a leading hub for arts and music education, known for its dynamic creative scene and world-class institutions. Studying in Berlin enabled Fenech “to immerse myself in a city synonymous with innovation and artistic freedom, a rich cultural environment that constantly inspires and drives growth”.

During the course, Fenech gained professional experience in studio practice, audio engineering, live performance, sound design and navigating the creative industries. He was able to collaborate with international peers, form meaningful connections, learn from experienced industry professionals, and gain a wealth of skills, while honing existing ones in his craft.

“Attending an international, English-speaking university with multiple branches and faculties around Europe enabled me to meet and work with people from across the globe and opened my horizons to various creative avenues I never considered, such as film and performance,” he said.

Fenech worked and performed in world-leading studios and top-selling venues, such as Hansa Studios, which has hosted artists like David Bowie, and Columbiahalle, Dire Straits, Azealia Banks, and Marilyn Manson.

Attending an international, English-speaking university with multiple branches and faculties around Europe... opened my horizons to various creative avenues I never considered, such as film and performance

“This made me become much more versatile and open-minded as a musician, making me ready for any challenge and equipping me with the necessary skills to carve a path in the field,” he said.

Thanks to Berlin being one of the epicentres for popular music worldwide, as well as the opportunities extended to Fenech by his university and its network, he got to work on projects for major record labels and publishing houses, such as various subsidiaries of Universal Music Group like EMI Records, as well as on film projects nominated for the Berlin Film Festival.

“Life in Berlin also taught me a great deal, from interacting and integrating with cultures from all around the world, to navigating a capital that bore the brunt of World War II and still bears its scars.

“The buzzing collectives, scenes and networking events made open to people in my position meant there was never a dull moment during my studies,” he said, adding that although he had not yet achieved full command of the German language, this did not present any setbacks, and he was always given a helping hand whenever he needed it.

Back in Malta, Fenech says the experience he gained in Germany has given him a different perspective.

“I was able to bring back that which I learned and contribute to the enrichment of our music and entertainment scene with a skill set I otherwise would not have had,” he said.

“This opportunity has helped me grow not just as a musician and artist, but as a cultural ambassador for Malta, and I look forward to bringing back new ideas, techniques and experiences that can contribute to the evolution of our local creative industries, while also continuing my journey, ready more than ever to face the next challenge head-on,” he said.