Class Description
This class is all about building creativity, confidence, and musical skill through hands-on music-making. Students learn rhythm, melody, and basic music theory while playing instruments, creating songs, and collaborating with others. From jam sessions to songwriting and beat-building, students explore their sound in a fun, positive environment. The focus is on expression, growth, and real musicianship.
Learning Objectives: in this class, students will learn
- How to give and receive constructive feedback in a creative setting
- How to build and collaborate on musical ideas with others
- Basic music theory concepts like rhythm, melody, and harmony
- How to create original music through instruments, vocals, and group work
- How to perform and share their music with confidence
- How music connects to real-world opportunities and career pathways
- How to grow as an artist in a positive, supportive environment
Equipment
- Instruments & Performance Tools:
- Vocals (voice as primary instrument)
- Acoustic guitars
- Electric guitars
- Electric bass guitars
- Keyboards / MIDI keyboards
- MPC / beat production machine
- Brass and woodwind instruments (as available)
- Percussion instruments (shakers, tambourines, cajón, drum set, electronic drum set, etc.)
- Live Sound & Audio Equipment:
- 12-channel Mackie mixer with built-in effects
- Microphones (dynamic and condenser)
- Microphone stands and cables (XLR)
- Instrument cables (1/4”)
- Bass guitar amplifiers
- Solid-state and tube guitar amplifiers
- Guitar pedals (effects units)
- Guitar tuners
- PA / speaker system (if applicable)
Software
- Mac Computer or workstation for basic music production
- Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) such as FL Studio, GarageBand, or BandLab
- Basic recording interface (if used during sessions)
Deliverables: Students and Class Projects
By the end of the course, students will have:
- Created original musical compositions individually or in groups
- Participated in live performances or collaborative jam sessions
- Demonstrated foundational music theory knowledge through application
- Contributed to group songwriting and beat-building activities
- Engaged in peer feedback and creative evaluation
- Developed confidence in performing and sharing their music
