WORKSHOPS
SONG WRITING AND PERFORMANCE WORKSHOP
We recognize the importance of self expression in today’s society. We have directly observed the connection between art education and the social/ academic advancement of our students. In this program NO PRIOR EXPERIENCE IS NECESSARY! Students will be introduced to the exciting world of song writing and create ORIGINAL WORKS. They will be using the methods of Poetry, Emceeing (Rapping) and Singing to do so. Experienced participants are encouraged to assist newer students and collaborate on songs. We employ literary devices such as: alliteration, metaphor, simile, personification to advance students in writing as well as reading comprehension. Using all steps of the writing process, they are asked to write lyrics on a collectively chosen topic or theme. After the completion of their songs they move on to the performance part of this program. In this section they will learn to recite and memorize their songs and push their idea of collaboration to create an amazing product as a group. The program culminates with a free showcase for the students, their friends, their family and the community.
Materials Needed
Pens, NoteBooks, 1 Portable CD Player for every group. (We recommend a 5:1 student to mentor ratio)
Benefits of the Program
Advancement in Reading Comprehension and Expressive Writing
Increased Vocabulary
Increased Confidence
Skills in Public Speaking
Use of cooperation and teamwork
BEAT MAKING/PRODUCTION WORKSHOP
Hands-on! In this fun and innovative program students are introduced to the incredible world of digital music production! Students will become familiar with production software Reason (recommended) or Garage band. They will learn the basics of music theory: tempo, counting measures and basic song formatting. Then students will be shown how to structure their beats according to the artist’s vision. The methods used include sampling, creating basic melodies and mastering drum patterns.
Materials needed
Computer with Reason software or Garage band (Reason is recommended Garage band comes Free on most Mac Computers), Headphones, MIDI Controller. This setup recommended for each student but can be used for two students.
Benefits of the Program
Introduction to Music Theory
Ear Training
Basic Keyboard Skills
Basic computer skills
INTRODUCTION TO MUISC THEORY (Guitar, Keyboard or Drum Pad)
To fill the void left by the lack of music programs in schools, Urban Art Beat and The Optimus Foundation are proud to present Introduction to Music Theory. We teach the basic of Reading/ Writing music, as well as the various parts of the instruments to students that are just beginning their journey into the instrument world. We can offer Keyboard, Guitar or Drum Practice Pad as well as any combination of the three. Playing instruments gives students the discipline they need to excel in various aspect of life that expand far beyond music itself. Our program differs from the standard lessons because we focus on teaching students songs they are interested in, and cater to needs of the individual. All our instructors are active musicians that create original music.
Materials Needed
A Practice Guitar, Keyboard or Drum Pad and Sticks for Each Student
A Chalk or Dry Erase Board
Headphones for Each Keyboard student
Benefits of the Program
Introduction to Music Theory
Basics of playing Guitar, Keys or drums
Ear training
Increased discipline and confidence
THE AUDIO PROJECT
This program is a combination of our other programs. The producers and instrument players combine with songwriters to make a CD of original music. We also introduce students to the art of audio engineering where they will record the music they make. We can also provide instrumentals for students. The students choose a theme for the project and create the music and lyrics based on that subject. We also show the students how to upload their music to the internet, so their music and message can be heard by the ENTIRE WORLD!
Materials Needed
Computer with Recording/ Production software, Microphone, Mic Stand, Pop filter, 2 Headphones and a Headphone splitter.
(UAB can bring these materials if there is a quiet space available for us to record or we can arrange various trips to recording studios for students)
Benefits of the Program
Creative Problem Solving
Building self confidence and social skills through collaborative learning
Computer Skills
Communication Skills
Hip Hop Theater Workshop
Hip Hop is the representation of innovative artistic creation. Hip Hop Theater is an extension of this idea by combining Hip Hop’s core elements of emceeing (rapping), dancing and street art (graffiti) and creating a narrative that is acted out by the performers. This is theater for the Hip Hop generation and the participants will learn how to perform Hip Hop versions of plays by famous playwrights such as Shakespeare. They will also get the chance to create their own Hip Hop Theater piece with the help of professional Hip Hop playwright and director, Gustav Gauntlett. Basic acting games will warm up the confidence of any newcomer to theater and, by the end of the workshop, all of the participants will be ready to help create a unique Hip Hop Theater performance of their own.
Materials Needed:
Paper, pens, CD, CD player, notebooks
Benefits of the Program
Teamwork
Innovative Thought Processes
Storytelling and Creative Writing Structure
Leadership
Public Speaking