Kert Markus Valdek

Pronouns Used: He/Him/His

Hometown: Kohila, Estonia

Principal Instrument: Voice

Majors: Electronic Production and Design and Music Business/Management

Languages Spoken (other than English): Estonian

Describe your favorite Berklee experience so far.

Berklee itself is the experience ... but my main thing would be the people Berklee brought into my life. My multicultural friend group has people from Taiwan, Spain, India, and Mexico, as well as Oklahoma in the U.S. The time spent with them is something that I would not change for anything. Music brings people together, and that's a part of Berklee everyone should embrace. 

When you think about your favorite class so far, what is one example of why you enjoyed it?

My favorite class so far would be the Vocal Recording Ensemble. With only seven vocalists in the class, we were able to record three full demos with a live band. The song choice was completely up to the students, could be an original or a cover, which created a space for safe creative flow. 

What is your favorite part about studying and living in Boston? 

The fact that it is the student city. With so many universities around it encourages connections with people from all aspects of life, not only music. Boston with its 612 coffee shops is the place that supports studying. Regardless of the "city" title, it is a perfect combination of concrete and nature.

What is one piece of advice you would give to someone applying to Berklee College of Music or Boston Conservatory at Berklee?

Don't be afraid to ask questions, you are all in this together. Professors give you the theory, but your friends help you apply that!

Where is your favorite place on campus?

1120 Boylston Street with its brand new practice rooms. Each room has a Yamaha upright piano and is as soundproof as you can make a room without making it a studio. 

Why did you choose Berklee?

My policy is that you should learn from the people who know what they are talking about, people who have industry experience and now want to give back to their community—that's Berklee. Representing the best of the best from all across the world, it is the only school that teaches and celebrates music for its purpose, other than only its origin. 

What are your plans for after graduation?

As an international student who is a production major, I get up to three years to be in the United states after I graduate. I want to take the time that I have in the states to be either in LA or in New York—where the industry is located. After that the world is my playground, we shall see where life takes me.

What have you enjoyed most about the live shows you’ve been involved in at Berklee?

The fact that we get to work with professional equipment and learn how to be professional in different performance settings. 

Where do you hope to perform this coming year?

I hope that the spring will bring us an artist showcase representing an artist whose music I enjoy performing, and that I get to perform that at the BPC. 

Your social media channel/web URL?

Instagram: @kertmarkus

Website: marumusic.com