From Brentwood to Berklee: Luca Orasanu hits all the right notes

We are delighted to share that talented drummer and pianist Luca Orasanu (OB 2022-2024) is heading to Boston, Massachusetts, to study at the prestigious Berklee College of Music on a 100% scholarship! A former sixth-form music scholar and bursary recipient, Luca's achievement marks a first for Brentwood, as he joins one of the world's top conservatoires renowned for its jazz program. We caught up with Luca to hear about his musical journey, how Brentwood prepared him for this milestone, and his excitement for the future.

What inspired you to apply to Berklee?

What inspired me the most about applying to Berklee was its strong connections to the music industry and its reputation for producing world-class musicians. I saw Berklee as an opportunity to build a network and connect with several talented musicians.

Can you tell us about the application and audition process for Berklee? How did you prepare?

The overall process was very straightforward with the application consisting of writing a short essay, showcasing why I wanted to go to Berklee. My audition was online and as a drummer I prepared by choosing a song in a style I am very comfortable with, one that I listen to often and felt confident would showcase my strengths. The audition further consisted of ear training, sight-reading and improvisation and a short interview on why Berklee is the right place for me.

When did your passion for music, and specifically jazz, begin?

My passion for music started when I was very young. I began playing drums at the age of 2, and with my dad being a professional musician, I was always surrounded by music. He was a huge inspiration to me, and his success in music motivated me to follow my own musical path. I would always listen to jazz on the radio from a young age and as I got older, became more drawn to the creativity involved within it. Once I started exploring the possibilities within jazz I never looked back.

How did your time at Brentwood shape your musical development?

I had the opportunity to play alongside talented musicians, which pushed me to improve. Being in jazz bands led by professionals like Matt Ridley was a huge influence, helping me develop my understanding of jazz. Jamming with like-minded musicians pushed us all to become better players and inspired me to keep growing as a musician. The collaborative environment and creative energy were key to my development here at Brentwood.

How did the bursary and scholarship support from the school help you achieve your goals?

The bursary and scholarship support from Brentwood allowed me to fully engage in opportunities like playing in ensembles with like-minded musicians. These experiences helped me grow technically and creatively. The chance to work with talented students and learn from professionals is something I wouldn’t have received at another school, making Brentwood the right place for me to pursue my musical goals.

What’s your favourite Brentwood memory?

My favourite memory would be playing Cory Henry’s solo on ‘Lingus’ for the summer promenade concert. Playing such a challenging piece with the band pushed me as a musician, and the entire experience was a reflection of the hard work and collaboration that went into it. The energy of playing with such a large big band was thrilling and the memory will always stay with me!

What advice would you give to other Brentwood students who are considering pursuing a career in music?

My best advice would be to stay curious and embrace every opportunity to collaborate with other musicians. Talent is one thing, but more importantly how you connect with others and how you learn from those around you is key. Play with as many different musicians as possible, because the more you experience diverse styles, the more you grow as an artist.