While anyone can drag-and-drop pre-made loops into GarageBand to form a “song,” beat making is a skill that doesn’t get enough respect. Beatmakers (aka producers,) possess the ability to compose full pieces of music by themselves through the use of electronic instruments and DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) software. It requires practice and persistence. It demands that you listen closely to your work over and over again. You find a new level of self-criticism you only dreamt could exist. In so many words, it’s a struggle.
What Is A Beatmaker (Producer?)
Behind all your favorite rappers is a beat and behind every beat lies a beatmaker and/or producer. It takes true passion and dedication to make it in this industry and those who have are very grateful for the position they are in. Sadly, many do not have the luxury to pursue what they love as a career and simply make beats for fun. It’s time we recognize the talent and tireless hours of those who work from their bedrooms or basements. They deserve a better platform to shine.
Montreal’s first-ever BeatMakersFest aims to promote the art of Hip-Hop musical composition and bring to the surface the organic hidden talent throughout the region. The BeatMakersFest aspires to create a supportive and encouraging environment where everyone can feel comfortable presenting their music. It also offers a chance to learn about and become part of a growing community. The BeatMakersFest is not just for artists. Music lovers of all kinds are welcome and encouraged to come to join in the festivities.
About BeatMakersFest
This first edition of the BeatMakersFest is in collaboration with the students from Trebas Institute’s (www.trebas.com) Show and Event Management program. This program teaches students about the ins and outs of event management. This includes everything from coordinating the services offered during an event to the marketing and promotion.
The BeatMakersFest is made and run by students and is a culmination of everything they’ve absorbed. It is safe to say that the students are more than ready to share their event with the world and hope to make it a lasting one.
The planning of their own events gives them the kind of hands-on experience that could never be taught in the classroom. Which is something Trebas Institute strives to do. “We want to prepare our students for what the real world is like,” says Dominique Blais, Director of Studies at Trebas Institute in Montreal. “It’s important for them to know that not everything in life is going to play out exactly
Not only do the instructors think it’s an important lesson, but the students also appreciate the break from the usual class structure. A project like this offers endless opportunities, and the students are jumping on the initiative.
Activities And Performances
The BeatMakersFest boasts a variety of activities to peep some skills. There will be a battle between eight of the best beatmakers in the region and a Hip-Hop dance performance. Steve Pageot will be presenting a mini-conference and judge the battle. He’s worked with artists such as Snoop Dogg and Krayzie Bone. “I’m honored to be a part of this new tradition,” said the Grammy Award-winning producer.
Even though he was deep in the world of music since birth, Pageot did not get his big break until his final years of high school. This is when he won a Canadian competition. It was this win that propelled him into the spotlight and allowed him to move on to bigger and better things.
The BeatMakersFest reminds him of his own start. “It’s an opportunity,” says Pageot. “I don’t know where I would be right now if it wasn’t for that competition. I don’t really want to think about it (laughs).” He hopes that others can utilize the BeatMakersFest as a stepping stone to reaching their dreams. The first BeatMakersFest goes down at La Vitrola, located at 4602 Boul St-Laurent in Montreal, on Wednesday, September 4th, 2019.
Artists who wish to participate in the BeatMakersFest should submit their music before August 10th at www.beatmakersfest.com.
