MINNEAPOLIS, MN, May 12, 2009—The Institute of Production and Recording (IPR) is taking part in an exciting project this summer. In collaboration with The Jackie Lee Robinson Foundation, with support from the Hubert H. Humphrey Center for Democracy and Citizenship, and in partnership with the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, IPR is launching a unique multimedia arts education program in the Minneapolis Park system, aptly named “IDEAWERKS®.”
IPR and the Jackie Lee Robinson Foundation have contributed state-of-the-art computers, multimedia software, and digital recording equipment as well as certified Pro Tools instructors, customized curriculum and teaching aides. The Ideawerks Indigenous Creative Academy® will provide kids (ages 12 to 18) with the creative platform and tools that are vital to creating multimedia audio and visual projects from conception to completion.
Some of the biggest names in the industry, including Digidesign, Avid, M-Audio, Sennheiser and Apple have all donated some of their best-selling professional gear to be used as learning tools for the program participants. These include an array of Pro Tools 003 rack-mount units, Avid software, microphones, professional headphones, and much more.
“We are extremely excited to participate in this project,” says IPR’s Executive Director of Music Industries and Grammy winner André Fischer. “The IDEAWERKS® program is a positive force for ‘critical creative consciousness’ that allows students to explore their own potential using multimedia arts and music as a tool for communication and self-awareness.”
The program also has the support of several leading educational and scholarship organizations and foundations, including the Page Education Foundation, Public Achievement®, and the Globe Education Network and the Minneapolis Park Foundation. “We are thrilled that the Page Education Foundation has been gracious enough to donate the first scholarship to the program,” continues Fischer. “A dream for many of these kids is now a reality thanks to this amazing organization. A scholarship to a higher education institution will be awarded to the student that shows the most achievement and dedication throughout the course.”
IPR has not only donated all iMac computers, mobile workstations, a Digidesign control 24 digital mixing console and multimedia software, but certified instructors, curriculum and teaching aides as well. “IPR’s senior students will act as teaching assistants as part of our community service internship program,” explains IPR Vice President, Lance Sabin. “They will act as mentors for these children while educating them on all facets of music production and technology. Our instructors will initially donate their time to lead these classes.”
The goal of this unique multimedia arts after school program is to provide participants opportunities to engage in positive artistic and social education activities as well as the encouragement for self-expression, communication and leadership. They will learn recording techniques, record audio and video information on digital workstations, study music basics and computer software to create music tracks, videos, produce and record individual multimedia projects, develop skills in the areas of collaboration, presentation, “completion and delivery,” and acquire professional capabilities.
The program runs 12 weeks in the summer and 10 weeks recurrently during the school year. The course can accommodate 32 students per session and includes lessons, projects, lectures, special guests, demonstrations and studio time.
“IDEAWERKS®” will premiere on May 30, 2009 at Powderhorn Park in Minneapolis with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and presentation starting at 1 pm CST, and a studio tour to follow.
About IPR
Integrating a liberal arts education with business and technical training expertise, The Institute of Production & Recording provides a learning environment that reflects today’s evolving entertainment industry. Its classrooms invite active discussions, creative problem solving, and presents an open forum for the exchange of new methods and ideas. Encouraging creativity and recognizing achievement, IPR assists its students in reaching their career goals in music, multimedia production, audio recording and music business. IPR is based in Minneapolis, MN. For further information, visit www.ipr.edu.