The South still got something to say, and the next generation of talented producers, disc jockeys, and artists is getting its start in reaching their musical aspirations through the Atlanta Public Schools (APS) music technology programs.
Students from Maynard Jackson High School, South Atlanta High School, and Therrell High School brought their ‘A’ game to the APS Music Tech Showcase, the culminating ceremony of the music tech program, where they put their passion and hard work on display.
“This is the fourth year that we featured music tech and celebrated the students’ progress,” said Dr. Sarah Erickson, APS’ director of Fine and Performing Arts. “Throughout the semesters, students have been doing mini-modules to learn about beat mixing, music mixing, and music production.”
The Music Technology program has been able to provide students with modern studio equipment, software, and access to industry professionals, with the help of two vital partners in music education: Save the Music and the Music Education Group.
The Music Technology Showcase featured student-produced remixes, digital compositions across multiple genres, live performances, and a DJ battle that was judged by a panel of four local music industry professionals, including producer/DJ London Elixir, recording artist/ entrepreneur Mogul Mal, producer/DJ Swanky, and producer Madness.
“Having people here who are in the industry come and see the young talent and maybe speak some words of wisdom into them is just a great opportunity for these kids to see what it looks like on the other side of school,” Dr. Erickson said.
The APS Music Technology program is in its fourth year, and it continues to grow in popularity each year. After the program started at Therrell High School, the program has expanded to a new school every year.
“Traditionally, when we think about extensions to high school music education, it’s basically a music appreciation class where students are sitting and listening to music and maybe learning about the history of music through the years, and that’s not really engaging when you think about 21st-century learners and modern technology,” Dr. Erickson said.
“Music tech has just been a great space, a natural kind of inclusion with our modern learners to see what music education looks like and how we can apply it if maybe they don’t play an instrument,” she added.
It’s not just the students who are passionate about the alternative music education pathway either. The music technology teachers have fully invested in the program and the students by making it about more than technical learning. In addition to becoming familiar with the equipment, the students have opportunities to apply what they’ve learned in the school production studios.
The South Atlanta High School DJs perform in the cafeteria on Fridays, which not only brings a vibe to the lunch period, but also provides a live training experience where they can work on their craft.
“The kids are very talented. I’m always impressed when I come and see the kids perform,” London Elixir said. “The possibilities are endless, and I think that the kids are getting access to the necessary tools to make them successful in career paths that aren’t usually traditional, but a lot of kids have a lot of passion behind them. I always wished that I had a class like this or a program like this when I was in high school.”
Congratulations to all the winners of the 2026 APS Music Technology Showcase!
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