Berklee was founded by Lawrence Berk, a veteran arranger and MIT-trained engineer, who wanted to teach contemporary music and provide practical career preparation for the working musician. Berklee's mission is to educate, train, and develop students to excel in music as a career.Developing the musicianship of all our students is the foundation of our curriculum. We believe that the lessons and qualities derived from that work—the self-discipline needed for excellence, the empathy required of music making and the openness and curiosity essential to creativity—are critical to achievement in any pursuit, musical or otherwise. We also believe that music is a powerful catalyst for the kind of personal growth central to any collegiate experience.