Young artists dive deep into beat-making, recording, and creative collaboration
From June 23–27, 2025, the August Wilson African American Cultural Center welcomed aspiring hip-hop artists and DJs to a transformational week of music production, performance, and collaboration. In partnership with Propel School for Fine Arts, the 4-day workshop brought together industry professionals—Ryan Matthews, Emmanuel DeAnda, and Squonk—to mentor youth in songwriting, beat-making, audio engineering, and live showcase performance.
Through immersive instruction and hands-on practice, campers explored the full spectrum of hip-hop culture—from crafting original beats and recording tracks to mixing, mastering, and performing live in front of their peers at AWAACC. Using DJ equipment, microphones, and studio tools, participants tapped into both artistic identity and technical skill development.
The final day culminated in a live performance on Friday, June 27, giving the young artists a professional stage to share their work, connect with fellow creatives, and celebrate their growth. This showcase reinforced AWAACC’s commitment to youth empowerment and creative equity through the arts.
As one of the nation’s leading multidisciplinary centers for Black arts and culture, AWAACC continues to expand access to professional-level training in music, performance, and technology. The Hip-Hop Music Camp exemplifies the Center’s mission to nurture the next generation of Black storytellers and creatives—ensuring that Pittsburgh remains a hub for innovation, expression, and cultural leadership.