Turn Up the Volume: An Interview with Our Beat Production and DJ Class Instructors
Music education is essential for helping students reach their full potential. Our instructors are passionate about providing students with the tools they need to succeed both academically and personally. Check out our exclusive interview with our beat production and DJ class instructors to learn more about the importance of music education in schools and the transformative power it can have on young people.
This exclusive interview with our beat production and DJ class instructors highlights the importance of arts in schools, particularly music, and its impact on students. Our instructors are passionate about teaching music and inspiring students to explore their creativity. They emphasize the importance of hands-on learning and encourage students to experiment with different sounds and techniques. In our beat production class, students learn how to use software programs to create their own beats and tracks. They also have the opportunity to collaborate with other students and showcase their work at school events. Our DJ class teaches students how to mix music, spin on vinyl and software programs, create their own mash-ups, read a crowd, and perform live. At our academy, we believe that music education is essential for developing well-rounded individuals who can thrive in any field they choose. Watch the video below to get an inside look at our beat production and DJ classes for youth ages 13 through 22.
Music education programs can provide exposure to the arts and introduce students to new opportunities beyond their existing environment.
Beat production class instructor Mr. Diaz emphasizes the importance of bringing music education to schools, stating, "A lot of times they don't have arts in the schools, so it's been one of the things that I go in and show them that there are other options available for them outside of the typical things that they see every day." By providing exposure to music on a more personal, intimate level, students can develop a deeper appreciation for the art form and recognize potential career paths in the field.
Music education has been shown to have numerous benefits beyond just the artistic realm. Studies have found that students who participate in music programs tend to have better cognitive development, improved language skills, and increased social skills. In fact, music education has even been linked to higher academic achievement overall. By incorporating music into schools or enrolling your child in an after-school music class, educators and parents help students develop a well-rounded skill set that will serve them throughout their lives. It's not just about creating the next generation of musicians; it's about providing students with the tools they need to succeed in any field they choose. As Mr. Diaz says, "Music is a universal language that can connect people from all walks of life." By giving students access to this language, we can help them become more empathetic, creative, and successful individuals.
Music education goes beyond just the surface level of the art form, encompassing history, culture, and various disciplines.
Beat production student David Boesen shares his experience at the academy, saying, "Before coming here, I didn't really understand a lot about hip-hop. I knew of the music and dance associated with it, but Words Beats & Life covers a lot more than just the surface level that any layman would know. They cover a lot of the art and the history that really sort of envelops you into the culture of hip-hop in a way that I'd never seen before." This comprehensive approach to music education helps students develop a well-rounded understanding of the art form and its cultural significance.
Through our wide array of academy classes, students are exposed to the rich history of hip-hop, from its roots in the Bronx to its global influence today. Students can learn the four elements of hip-hop through our classes in MCing, DJing, graffiti art, and breakdancing—and how each has evolved over time. They also explore the social and political issues that have been central to hip-hop since its inception, such as racism, poverty, and police brutality. By studying these topics in depth, students gain a deeper appreciation for the power of hip-hop as a tool for social change. In addition to history and culture, Words Beats & Life also emphasizes the technical skills needed to create hip-hop music. Students learn about beat-making, sampling, mixing and mastering tracks, and recording vocals. They also have opportunities to perform their own music in front of live audiences and collaborate with other artists in the community. Through this hands-on approach to learning, students develop not only their musical abilities but also their confidence and leadership skills
Music education can inspire students to leverage their skills in creative ways as they progress through their academic and professional careers.
Dominic Painter, a DJ class instructor, finds inspiration in one of his students' ability to use their musical knowledge in a practical way. He says, "To see someone that's still in high school, still has a lot to learn, but is still able to understand how to leverage it as a hustle that can benefit him through college and even beyond right now in the early stages of this game, is inspiring to me." By fostering a strong foundation in music education, students can utilize their skills in various ways as they navigate their future endeavors.
Music education not only provides students with the technical skills necessary to play an instrument or sing, but it also teaches them how to collaborate and communicate effectively with others. These skills are transferable to many fields, including business and entrepreneurship. In fact, many successful entrepreneurs credit their music education with their ability to think creatively and outside the box. Additionally, music can be used as a form of therapy and can have a positive impact on mental health. Students who have a strong foundation in music education can use their skills to help others and make a difference in their communities. Overall, music education is a valuable asset that can benefit students throughout their lives, both personally and professionally.
The lack of arts education in schools is a growing concern for many educators and parents alike. As funding for music education programs continues to dwindle, students are missing out on the opportunity to develop their creativity and build confidence through musical expression. Our Academy teachers have seen firsthand the transformative power that music can have on young people. It is not just about learning how to compose music or spin a record; it is also about developing a sense of self-awareness and emotional intelligence. Music education can provide students with a safe space to explore their emotions and express themselves in ways that they may not be able to do in other areas of their lives. By investing in music education programs, we are empowering young people to reach their full potential and equipping them with the tools they need to succeed both academically and personally. This is why our organization provides free arts education classes to youth ages 13–22 both online and at our academy headquarters in Washington, D.C.
