Attention all aspiring hip-hop artists and DJs! Join us this summer at the August Wilson African American Cultural Center for an exciting music camp in partnership with Propel School. We are excited to have Ryan Matthews, Emmanuel DeAnda, and the Squonk Opera as our educators for this fun camp!
During this immersive experience, participants will have the opportunity to learn from experienced industry professionals, hone their skills in music production and performance, and collaborate with other talented young artists. The 4-day workshop will consist of: songwriting, beat-making, proper recording technique, audio engineering-mixing and mastering, and students will have access to an array of instruments, DJ equipment, and microphones.
Campers will also have the chance to showcase their talents with a final performance at the August Wilson African American Cultural Center that will take place on Friday June 27th. This is a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, gain valuable experience, and take your music career to the next level. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to unleash your creativity and passion for hip-hop music. Sign up now for the hip-hop music and DJ camp at the August Wilson African American Cultural Center!
Educators
Emmanuel DeAnda
Ryan Matthews
Squonk Opera
Dates
Monday-Friday June 23-27th (in-person)
June 23-26th will be the camp sessions from 10am-2pm
June 27th is the showcase and will take place from 12-2pm
Lunch and Snacks provided
Emmanuel “Manny” DeAnda is a singer/songwriter/producer/performer/educator. Born in the city of Pittsburgh, PA. and a graduate of Westinghouse High School, his music journey began locally in 1999 with the founding of the boy band “Crave”. The local success story consisted of himself and two of his former classmates. Crave had huge local success in Pittsburgh with the support from local radio station WAMO, the Pittsburgh Steelers, and city-wide support. This support pushed Crave to become the #1 selling R&B group of all time, in Pittsburgh. In 2007, Crave received the Key to The City presented by former mayor Luke Ravenstahl, as well as a proclamation annually recognizing July 21st as “Crave Day” in Pittsburgh. Emmanuel received national attention by joining popular boy band Pretty Ricky in 2008. Touring the country and abroad, Emmanuel has made 7 appearances on BET’s 106 n Park, The Monique Show in its inaugural season, as well as several music collaborations with major artists such as Snoop Dogg, Bone Thugs N Harmony, Keke Wyatt, H-Town and Jodeci to name a few. Emmanuel has worked for local community-based organizations The YMCA Lighthouse Project, 1Hood and is currently serving as a Creative Arts Educator for Hip Hop on L.O.C.K. and Propel Schools. At Propel, Emmanuel serves as an instructor, teaching the scholars about the history of Hip Hop, songwriting, music production and video production. Since Emmanuel’s arrival, Hip Hop on L.O.C.K. has been the most requested creative arts program within the Propel School system. Recently, Emmanuel has pivoted into entrepreneurship with the creation of 808 Musicc Productions, LLC. Emmanuel’s skills as a music producer, song writer, vocal producer, and studio engineer will be the driving force for this independent business venture. Emmanuel will continue his legacy by impacting the youth through music and education.
Ryan Matthew Tedder is a Pittsburgh-based music producer, songwriter, artist developer, and founder of Serenity Projects, a mission-driven creative platform dedicated to artist empowerment through storytelling, mentorship, and music production.
With a career spanning over 15 years, Ryan has collaborated with global artists including Ariana Grande, Meghan Trainor, Wiz Khalifa, Timbaland, H.E.R., and Social House. An alum of Berklee College of Music and a former student of the Afro-American Music Institute (AAMI), Ryan’s early foundation was shaped by Pittsburgh’s rich Black music legacy.
In 2016, Ryan secured a label partnership with Interscope Records, where he helped launch and champion emerging talent. Upon returning to Pittsburgh, he deepened his commitment to youth education and community-centered creative work.
Through his creative agency, Serenity Projects, Ryan develops emerging talent, builds music-focused educational programs, and connects storytelling with community empowerment.
Ryan has led youth workshops across Pittsburgh through organizations like Center of Life, and AAMI. With a passion for mentorship, creativity, and equity, Ryan brings a culturally rooted and technically relevant perspective to every classroom—meeting students where they are and helping them build confidence through sound.
