Today, we delve into an exciting program that bridges the gap between creativity and business in music. Welcome to SV Beats at Sierra Vista High School, an initiative that’s making waves and opening doors for aspiring musicians. Let’s dive into what makes this program a game-changer for young artists.
Discovering SV Beats: Where Music Meets Opportunity
Ezekiel Day, a member of the Vegas PBS Media Crew and a student at Sierra Vista High School, recently took us on a tour of SV Beats—a program that offers an all-encompassing look at the music industry. From songwriting and performing to recording and business management, SV Beats covers it all. It’s designed to help students navigate their musical ambitions and turn their dreams into reality.
A Unique Approach to Music Education
SV Beats was born from humble beginnings as a DJ music production club. Shane Gibson, one of the key figures behind the program, explains that it evolved based on student feedback and interests. What started as a niche club has blossomed into a full-fledged elective, shaping the curriculum around what the students truly wanted and needed.
“SV Beats is kind of like the overall encompassing of everything involved with making music… kind of the whole deal put together.” – Shane Gibson
Student Experiences: Finding Their Voice
The beauty of SV Beats lies in its ability to cater to diverse musical interests. Students like Quin Dottery and Josh Ortiz shared their personal journeys with the program. Quin candidly admitted that SV Beats was initially low on his list of electives, but it soon became a cornerstone of his high school experience. Josh, on the other hand, found his focus and passion for music through the program.
“I just used to come in here and look at the guitars and wish I could play those and make music. But I didn’t know it was like a class about making music until last year.” – Josh Ortiz
Fostering Creativity and Individuality
One of the standout aspects of SV Beats is its emphasis on individual expression. Whether students want to write music, DJ, or produce, the program encourages them to find their unique voice and style. Kaya Holland highlighted how SV Beats allowed her to explore different musical paths and understand what she wanted to achieve in her high school career.
“This path is a lot different than traditional paths… If you want to write music, you’re going to write in your own voice, tell your own stories.” – Shane Gibson
Transformative Impact on Students
The impact of SV Beats extends beyond musical skills. Tayven Stipp shared how the program not only shaped his musical abilities but also his personal growth. He never imagined performing at events like First Friday downtown, but SV Beats made it possible. For many students, this program is not just an elective—it’s a transformative experience that brings joy and a sense of accomplishment.
“I’m fortunate to have this program all four years… this is such an amazing and such a fulfilling program. I really enjoy it.” – Student
