Tuskegee Music Experience offers music education, mentorship, and more for all ages
Sharing the joy of music with the community, the upcoming Tuskegee Music Experience aims to make quality music education accessible while showcasing the talent, leadership, and community connection that are hallmarks of Tuskegee University.
The free music education event for all Macon County students and residents will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday at the Tuskegee University Chapel.
Participants will attend group and private sessions in voice, piano, music fundamentals, music theater, songwriting, and music production, led by experienced musicians, educators, and student mentors. The day will conclude with a student recital, giveaways, and prizes.
The event is being coordinated by Imani Edwards, a senior political science major with a minor in music and president of the Golden Voices Concert Choir. Edwards said the workshop was designed to create a welcoming environment where participants of all ages and experience levels can explore their musical interests.
“I always say the choir is my home within a home,” Edwards said. “Tuskegee creates a space where students can become comfortable with who they are, and Golden Voices is a very personal version of that for me.”
Organized in partnership with the Tuskegee University Department of Fine & Performing Arts and Heart & Harmony Foundation, Inc., the program seeks to remove barriers that often prevent individuals from pursuing music education while creating opportunities for creative expression and mentorship.
“We want people to know that this is for everyone,” Edwards said. “A lot of times when people think about music programs, they can feel intimidated. At Tuskegee, we're known as a strong STEM institution, but creativity is just as important. We want students to feel comfortable coming in, learning something new, and having fun.”
The workshop will feature Tuskegee students serving as instructors and mentors, highlighting the university's commitment to leadership development through hands-on learning opportunities.
According to Dr. Yi Chang, an instructor in the Department of Fine & Performing Arts who teaches piano, accompanies the Golden Voices Concert Choir, and serves as an advisor to the program, the event represents an extension of the university's focus on preparing students to lead.
“This opportunity reflects Tuskegee’s intentional focus on preparing students to lead,” Chang said. “The students are managing every aspect of this program, from lesson planning to logistics. It isn’t easy work, and it provides invaluable leadership experience that will serve them well beyond graduation.”
In addition to music instruction, attendees will gain exposure to career pathways within the music industry. One of the event's featured guests will be Brandra Ringo, executive vice president and co-head of A&R at Quality Control Music, who will join virtually to discuss professional development, communication skills, and opportunities in the music business.
Edwards said Ringo's participation will provide students with valuable insight into careers both on stage and behind the scenes.
“She's taught us so much about the music business, professionalism, and the different paths available behind the scenes in the industry,” Edwards said. “I thought it would be an amazing opportunity for our students to hear directly from someone with her experience.”
As graduation approaches, Edwards said her experiences with music at Tuskegee have shaped her growth as a leader and helped prepare her for future success.
“It taught me how to be a better leader, how to be a team player, and how to believe in myself,” she said. “I've gained lifelong relationships, lifelong lessons, and experiences that I'll carry with me forever.”
Organizers hope participants leave inspired to continue exploring their creative potential long after the event concludes.
“We want people to leave feeling encouraged,” Edwards said. “Whether they're interested in singing, producing, writing songs, or simply learning something new, there's a place for them here.”
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