PHaT Music

Performance History and Technology of Music

So, exactly who are the Nude Welders? For that matter, who are Blue Raccoon, Free Tuesday, and Giant Mustache? These are but a few of the nine kids rock bands from the PHaT Music program at Big Sky Learning.

A band gets its start when five students sign up for a 10 week session. Some come with instruments and skills. Others have never grabbed a pair of drumsticks or held an electric guitar. The group meets weekly for two and a half hours. A band of amateurs can create powerful grooves when each player holds down a simple part. From day one, the band starts to develop its sound.

Next come lyrics. Through cooperative writing exercises, the group roughs out a few songs. The lyrics are then put to the grooves and the arrangement process begins. Hearing a song come together is very exciting. All of a sudden there is a powerful artistic expression that only exists because of the group. It’s then that we start to feel like a band.

Then to the studio. The band books time at a real professional recording studio. Showing up on time, being prepared, and staying focused are the lessons of the day, especially when each minute is costing a dollar. When the CD is complete, band members design the bands logo and CD cover. T-shirts are then made sporting the bands logo.

Finally the band is ready to perform. Tribes Coffee House generously offers their space each semester. The band joins together to set up the stage and sound equipment. Performing is a powerful way to celebrate the band’s creative accomplishments.

During the semester, students explore the history of popular music from its roots in African ceremony to its social roles in the ‘50’s and '60’s and finally to it’s current place in society. Students also learn about the physics of sound and the basic electronics that make it Rock and Roll.

CDs of PHaT Music are available for free!

Email your request to michael@bigskylearning.com