WYEP’s Musician Accelerator Program provides a unique, educational experience designed to provide access and insights to local teen artists in the development of their talent. Attending any masterclass will allow an opportunity for young creatives to build community and learn about the music industry from award-winning educators, industry professionals, musicians, and producers.
WYEP is continuing its stewardship of the next generation of Pittsburgh musical talent by providing three themed masterclasses for current high school students to learn about the process of creating, releasing, and promoting music. High school students living in the Pittsburgh area can attend any or all of the classes for free thanks to station donors and from a generous contribution from Williams Coulson, LLC.
WYEP, with the help of class moderator, INEZ, will host a discussion and Q&A session via Zoom with indie-folk rock artist, Olivia Barton. Olivia is a graduate of Berklee School of Music and has garnered a following through social media, strategic touring, and thoughtful songcraft.
Masterclass #1: Songwriting and production on Thursday, Dec. 5
A panel of Pittsburgh-based musicians, songwriters, and producers will discuss the process of songwriting and production. Class attendees will hear tips, tricks, and strategies from professionals actively creating music. With discussion led by moderator, INEZ, Lucy, Alex and Orlando will share their personal experiences as artists and living a life of creativity.
Lucy Clabby is one of the leaders of modern folk/Americana band, Buffalo Rose. She has toured extensively, released multiple albums, and collaborated with legendary folk artists. Alex Stanton writes and records music with his folk/pop band, Townsppl. Alex is also a teacher and the founder of Sunburst School of Music in Squirrel Hill.
Orlando Marshall, better known as Buscrates, is a musician, DJ and producer who has released albums ranging from classic boom-bap hip-hop to synth-crazy post-disco boogie-funk. Orlando also works doing quality control for Pittsburgh’s new record pressing plant, Hellbender Vinyl. Panelists will share their experiences as working musicians, songwriters, and creatives. This class is available to high school aged residents of the Pittsburgh area. Register for the masterclass here.
Learn more about: Lucy Clabby | Alex Stanton | Orlando Marshall
Masterclass #2: Working musician 101 on Wednesday, Dec. 11
Musician need-to-knows will be shared by panelists. Attendees will get insights on how to present, package, and market your project. The masterclass will cover the basics of promotion, booking, performance, and more. Learn to create a press kit, book shows, prepare for performances, and more foundational information that will help young creatives navigate the logistical and strategic pursuits of an artist.
Ami Spishock is an artist manager and co-founder of Fort Willian Management. Ami has managed many national acts and currently represents artists like Beirut, Grizzly Bear, and DEHD. Byron Nash is a musician and a contributor to Pittsburgh’s vibrant creative community. Nash had success with his group, Formula 412, before forming his current project NASH.V.ILL. Byron has also worked with many local arts organizations creating events and performance opportunities for fellow artists.
One more panelist will be announced shortly. This class is available to high school aged residents of the Pittsburgh area. Register for the masterclass here.
Learn more about: Ami Spishock| Byron Nash
Masterclass #3: A discussion with Olivia Barton on Wednesday, Nov. 20
WYEP, with the help of class moderator, INEZ, will host a discussion and Q&A session via Zoom with indie-folk rock artist, Olivia Barton. Olivia is a graduate of Berklee School of Music and has garnered a following through social media, strategic touring, and thoughtful songcraft.
WYEP’s Musician Accelerator Program will offer Pittsburgh-area teens currently in high school the chance to hear from Olivia about the journey into being a professional musician, songwriting process, and building a following through authenticity and resilience.
Olivia and fellow songwriter, Corook, had a viral hit with “If I Were a Fish” which, since its success, has been turned into a children’s book. Olivia and Corook appeared on CBS Mornings in support of the book release. This class is available to high school aged residents of the Pittsburgh area.
Register here for one or all three classes.
Learn more about Olivia Barton: WYEP session| NPR music session | CBS Mornings appearance
Classes are free and open to high school-aged people living in the Pittsburgh region. We hope you join us!