YOUTH PROGRAMMING
QPLF
PAST TO PRESENT
QPLF has worked with teen since 2002, the initiative was developed to provide inner-city teens with immersive experiences summers and weekends. After seeing how teens flourished from workshop experiences, QPLF began the process of bringing these exciting opportunities to teens through our two week summer camp. This program was developed with the goal of allowing teens to explore different creative mediums such as the business of music, song writing, staging & performance, production & recording, and intro to orchestra.
SONG WRITING WORKSHOP
WORKSHOP DETAILS
Understanding Music Basics
Elements of Music
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Melody: The main tune of a song
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Harmony: Supporting notes that enrich the melody
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Rhythm: The beat or groove of the music
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Dynamics: The volume and intensity of sound
Musical Genres
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Explore various genres (Pop, Rock, R&B, Hip-Hop, Jazz, etc.)
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Identify key characteristics of each style
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Compare and contrast how elements are used differently
Song Structure
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Basic Components:
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Verse: Tells the story
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Chorus: Repeats and emphasizes the main message
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Bridge: Offers contrast or a twist
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Hook: The catchy part that sticks
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Analyze popular songs to see how these parts work together
Lyric Writing
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Finding Inspiration:
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Brainstorm themes from personal experiences or emotions
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Use prompts, images, or music to spark ideas
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Tips to overcome writer’s block
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Writing Lyrics:
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Use rhyme schemes (AABB, ABAB, etc.)
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Incorporate poetic devices (metaphor, simile, imagery)
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Focus on emotional connection and clarity
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Melody and Harmony
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Creating Melodies:
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Experiment with scales and modes
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Try singing or playing around until a melody sticks
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Keep it simple and memorable
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Adding Harmony:
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Use chords that support your melody
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Explore different chord progressions (I–IV–V, etc.)
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VOCAL TRAINING WORKSHOP
Harmonizing
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Basics of chord progressions
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Experimenting with harmonies to enhance melodies
Rhythm and Groove
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Understanding Rhythm
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Introduction to time signatures and rhythmic patterns
Creating Groove
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Techniques for developing interesting rhythms and grooves
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Exploring different percussive elements
Collaboration and Arrangement
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Working with Others
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Techniques for effective collaboration in music writing
Sharing ideas and incorporating feedback
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Arranging Songs
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Structuring a song for impact
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Adding instrumental and vocal arrangements
Technology in Music Writing
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Introduction to Music Software
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Overview of digital audio workstations (DAWs)
Basic functions and tools
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Feedback Session
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Constructive critique from facilitators and peers
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Discussing improvements and next steps
Reflection and Evaluation
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Workshop Reflection
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Sharing experiences and key takeaways
Sharing ideas and incorporating feedback
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Arranging Songs
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Structuring a song for impact
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Adding instrumental and vocal arrangements
Q PARKER MUSIC ACADEMY
Empowering and Engaging Our Youth at the Q Parker Legacy Foundation, we are dedicated to fostering a strong relationship with our youth. We take a proactive and dynamic approach, striving to initiate positive change and encourage participation from everyone involved.
1st Quarter
RECORDING & PRODUCTION WORKSHOP
February 2026
2nd Quarter
SUMMER MUSIC CAMP
April 2026
3rd Quarter
WRITING & VOCAL WORKSHOP
September 2025
4th Quarter
STAGING & PERFORMANCE WORKSHOP
November 2025
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