Upbeat Academy Foundation

The Upbeat Academy Foundation is a Louisiana non-profit organization formed in 2013 providing underprivileged at-risk children with an opportunity to learn how to produce and perform the type of music they listen to and dream of creating with a focus on 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.