OUR MISSION
Upbeat Academy Foundation inspires and empowers New Orleans area young people through a modern approach to music education. Utilizing an original curriculum that provides access to the technology and tools used in the production and performance of hip-hop, rap, R&B, dance music, and other popular genres, Upbeat Academy strives to nurture the next generation of musical talent and entrepreneurs, fostering creativity and collaboration both in the classroom and in the community.
OUR VISIONWe believe that all young people should be able to participate in high-quality musical education that speaks to their musical interests and career goals. Upbeat Academy’s vision is to uplift the community using modern music education as a vehicle for
self-expression and a catalyst for social change. The vision of our student-artists is to watch their musical aspirations come to life, to graduate Upbeat Academy one step closer to their dreams and, very simply, for their voice to be heard. |
OUR STRATEGYWhether in the main Upbeat studio or at one of our satellite classrooms in the community, we provide hands-on access to industry-grade equipment and software and foster a loose and creative environment that encourages self-expression and instills confidence in our student-artists. Using a technology-based curriculum rooted in hip-hop, rap, R&B, and dance music, we connect with young people in a natural way and provide them with a tangible framework of modern-day skills including technology and media literacy, collaboration, communication, and problem-solving.
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UPBEAT ACADEMY VALUES
Self-Expression
We want our student-artists to be equipped with the tools, skill sets, and confidence they need to find their passions and express their true best selves, both in classroom settings and in the communities where they live. |
Empowerment of our young people
Our young people are agents of change. We seek to amplify and support their voices and their work, both musically and on a community level. Our student-artists encourage each other to be great and speak their truth, not just in the studio, but in their daily lives. |
Inclusiveness
Upbeat Academy strives to be a welcoming place where all young people can learn about the music that speaks to them. Inspired by the belief that music is the one universal language, our student-artists exhibit compassion, inclusivity, positivity and acceptance toward themselves and everyone and reject all forms of hatred, harassment and discrimination. Clear, Transparent, and Honest Communication
We strive to always be clear, transparent and honest in all communications, both with our young people and the larger Upbeat Academy community. Our student-artists lead with integrity, responsibility and accountability. |
Creativity and Ingenuity
We believe that creativity and ingenuity are often the keys to problem-solving, success and progress. At Upbeat, our lessons are rooted in critical thinking but reside within a loose studio environment nurturing an outside-of-the-box approach. Cultural and Social Consciousness
With music historically being a mouthpiece for social progress, we believe that Upbeat should encourage civic engagement and address the issues that are important to our student-artists. We want to ensure what we teach our young people is relevant to the now - what they see and experience in their communities on a daily basis. |