classes begin Sept. 14th
Guitar
Teacher: Dave
Students will learn how to:
*Properly hold and handle their instrument/tune their guitar (by ear and with a tuner)
*Play basic to intermediate chords (open chords, power chords, simple bar chords)
*Understand rhythm, timing, and strumming patterns
*Read chord charts
*Play real songs from start to finish
*Develop finger strength, coordination, and technique
*Play with a group/band setting
👉 Apply it by performing live, in videos, and playing in showcases
bass guitar
Teacher: Dave
students will learn how to:
*Properly hold and handle their instrument/tune their bass (by ear and with a tuner)
*Play basic to intermediate chords (open chords, power chords, simple bar chords)
*Understand rhythm, timing, and strumming patterns
*Read chord charts
*Play real songs from start to finish
*Develop finger strength, coordination, and technique
*Play with a group/band setting
👉 Apply it by performing live, in videos, and playing in showcases
Media & content creation
Teacher: Dave
students will learn how to:
*Use cameras and phones with proper framing and composition
*Understand lighting basics (natural light, positioning)
*Capture clean audio and video, learn camera angles and movement techniques
*Create stories, scripts, and shot lists, film scenes with purpose and direction
*Edit videos using basic editing software
*Add transitions, music, text, and effects, explore intro-level special effects and creative visuals
*Learn acting techniques, character development, how to shine on the big screen
👉 Apply it by creating music videos, short films, promos, commercials, fun stuff and film showcase events!
Percussion
Teacher: Dave
students will learn how to:
*Play instruments like djembe, congas, bongos, and other hand percussion
*Develop proper hand technique (tone, slap, bass sounds), coordination, timing, & musical awareness
*Understand and play rhythms from Latin, African, and modern styles
*Keep steady timing and lock into a groove with others
*Learn call-and-response patterns and group rhythm building
*Create and layer beats, patterns, and musical textures
*Play along with songs, loops, and live group performances
👉 Apply it by performing in live shows, videos, and collaborative performances with other classes
Performance Sign Language
students will learn how to:
*Communicate using basic American Sign Language (ASL), understand common words, phrases, and expressions
*Sign along with songs and performances
*Develop confidence on stage
*Use body language, movement, and expression, and understand stage positioning and awareness
*Engage an audience with energy and presence
*Work as part of a team during performances
*Overcome nervousness and stage fear
👉 Apply it through live shows, showcases, film projects, and community events
Teacher: Christi
sign language basics
Teacher: Christi
students will learn how to:
*Communicate using basic American Sign Language (ASL)
*Understand and sign common words, phrases, and expressions
*Use facial expressions and body language for communication
*Build confidence in visual storytelling through sign
👉 Apply it by participating in inclusive performances
donate
We believe every student should have access to the arts—regardless of financial situation. Through sponsorships made possible by generous donors, we’re able to help students and families who need support so no one is left out. Your gift helps cover scholarships, program costs, and creates a place where kids can belong, grow, and thrive.
Upward Arts Academy is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law.
