Master Artists Series: Mr. Z Upbeat Academy

Photos by Traven Stout Photographer; Digital music workshop by Upbeat Music Academy provided by Positive Vibrations Foundation

Year after year, we love hosting Mr. Z during our Master Artists Series.

The Upbeat Academy Foundation is a Louisiana non-profit organization formed in 2013 providing underprivileged at-risk high-school children with an opportunity to learn how to produce and perform electronic dance music and hip-hop. Local DJs, producers and rappers/lyricists hold weekly (and soon daily) classes in the UPBEAT studio where students have access to equipment like laptops, mixers, turntables, controllers, microphones, headphones, various instruments, and the latest music production software. Using its founders’ experience, UPBEAT also seeks to introduce its students to the business side of the music industry, offering real-life experience, case studies, and opportunities for the kids to meet their favorite musicians. In just a short time since its inception, UPBEAT has already sparked hope and excitement in its students while motivating them to be responsible organized students and upstanding members of their often troubled communities.