Tiwa Savage Launches Free Music Training for 100 Africans

When Tiwa Savage studied at Berklee College of Music two decades ago, she learned something crucial: hit songs need more than talented singers. Behind every chart-topper is a team of producers, sound engineers, lawyers, and business minds who rarely get the spotlight or the training they deserve.

Now the international Afrobeats star is bringing that world-class education home. Her new Tiwa Savage Music Foundation has partnered with Berklee to deliver an intensive four-day training program in Lagos this April, targeting the invisible architects of Africa's booming music scene.

"An industry cannot thrive on artists alone," Savage said at the launch. "Behind every global sound is a network of producers, engineers, lawyers, publishers and innovators."

The timing couldn't be better. Afrobeats has exploded globally, but many African creatives still lack structured pathways to professional development. With artificial intelligence already reshaping how music gets made and distributed, Savage argues that formal training has become urgent, not optional.

One hundred emerging creatives will gather in Lagos from April 23 to 26, 2026, for hands-on workshops covering live performance, songwriting, production techniques, and music business fundamentals. Berklee faculty will fly in to lead sessions on navigating the global industry and building sustainable careers.

The program wraps with a live showcase where participants present original work blending West African musical traditions with contemporary global sounds. Selected attendees will also receive mentorship and guidance on accessing Berklee's campus and online programs afterward.

The Ripple Effect

This foundation addresses a gap that weakens entire creative ecosystems. Talent exists everywhere across Africa, but access to professional training remains concentrated in wealthy countries. By bringing education directly to Lagos and making it tuition-free, Savage removes the biggest barrier facing young creatives.

The partnership signals a broader shift too. Berklee president Jim Lucchese called the Nigeria program part of the school's global outreach efforts, recognizing that the next generation of music innovation is happening far beyond Boston.

Applications are open until March 20, 2026, to musicians, producers, songwriters, and other music professionals across Africa. Participants only need to cover their own travel and accommodation to Lagos. Everything else, from instruction to materials, comes free.

The foundation's long-term vision extends beyond single workshops. Savage wants to build permanent pathways that help young Africans discover career opportunities they didn't know existed and develop the skills to compete globally.

When Africa's music industry strengthens its foundation, everyone benefits: the artists get better support, the music gets more innovative, and more young people find sustainable creative careers.