East Lake Expression Engine is an after-school and summer music program that seeks to develop the creativity, discipline, problem solving skills, social skills, and spiritual maturity of its students through musical instruction and collaboration in a gospel-centered environment.
Classes
All of our students have some combination of these classes each week. We group our students, not by age, but by skill level.
Loquitos — Beginners
Classicos — Intermediate
Antiguas — Advanced
Choir —
During the week students gather for Choir with director, Sammie Waller. They learn proper vocal technique, solfege, and continue to grow their repertoire. We always aim to have repertoire in multiple styles ranging from classical (“Jesu Meine Freude” by Bach) to gospel (“Yes You Can” by Donnie McClurkin), and traditional folk songs (“Hava Nagila”).
Bucket Band —
The students learn bucket band to improve their percussion abilities and sharpen their feel of keeping a solid groove. Most of the rep they learn are original songs and arrangements created by staff.
Easily the most accessible part of our program, we have two levels of Bucket Band, beginner and advanced. When combined they make some beautifully loud music.
Supplementary Classes —
In addition to our core classes, we also have classes in music theory & composition, music exposure, songwriting, and aural comprehension.
Instrument Lessons —
Every student gets to select an instrument upon joining the program. As they grow and advance, they are allowed to take on an additional instrument as well. This is made possible by bringing in teaching artists from all around the city.
We are currently able to provide instruction on violin, viola, cello, trombone, trumpet, percussion, piano, glockenspiel, guitar, flute, saxophone, and clarinet.
Small Ensembles —
The Engine operates several ensembles during the year, including orchestra, brass ensemble, an advanced percussion ensemble, and as of 2022 a jazz combo.
— Inspired by El Sistema, students receive lessons from our incredible instructors in a group setting. This serves to encourage learning in a collaborative environment, and has resulted in several students stepping up to become leaders, as older and more experienced students help younger and less experienced ones grasp concepts more quickly.
Tutoring —
As an after-school program, homework is also part of our daily routine. Our tutoring staff do their best to make sure that every student receives guidance during the week to accomplish their assignments. Volunteers are integral to making this happen during the week.