Prison Electronic Music Program

In collaboration with the California Arts Council and the Arts in Corrections program, Give a Beat reaches 280 incarcerated people annually at the California State Prison, Los Angeles County (LAC), California Correctional Institution (CCI), and California Rehabilitation Center (CRC).

Since 2019, Give a Beat has proudly been a coordinating arts organization with the esteemed Arts in Corrections program. Our mission is to directly harness the profound and transformative influence of music to effect positive change in the lives of individuals currently confined within correctional facilities.

Through the 4-hour, multi-week curriculum, the program focuses on the fundamentals of music history, music production, DJing and transferable life skills. Through these artistic pursuits, participants are given a unique opportunity to unite with others through the universal language of music. This sense of camaraderie fosters the development of positive social bonds that transcend racial divides, cultivates improved relationships among peers and staff, and nurtures the overall well-being of all those touched by our program.

Between instructional sessions, program participants are tasked with engaging in "written reflections," a method designed to encourage contemplation on their class experiences, personal aspirations, and the profound ways in which music positively influences their lives. This exercise serves to deepen emotional self-awareness, stimulate critical thinking, enhance communication skills, and promote self-expression as essential components of healing and personal growth.

The skills acquired through our program serve a dual purpose - enriching the lives of participants during their time of incarceration and providing opportunities for healing in preparation for a successful reintegration into society. By imparting these life skills, the Prison Electronic Music Program supports a transformative cycle of change that instills lasting inspiration, empowerment, and ultimately contributes to the reduction of recidivism.

Digital & Technical Literacy
Music as a Mood-Shifter, Peace Builder, Tool for Conflict Resolution
Positive Social Groups

Photos by Peter Mertz

Chaz teaching music production techniques on Ableton equipment.
A snapshot from the “opening circle.”
Participants cheering on their fellow classmate as he learns to DJ.
“Shared Agreements” are created through the voices of each participant to ensure Give a Beat is curating a safe space.
Todd and participant celebrating a smooth DJ transition.
Zeroh teaching participants how to make beats.
Native Instruments Traktor turntables.
Participants collaborating on a DJ Set.
Participant learning the art of music production.
The “opening and closing circle” is a core part of our class, carving out space to build camaraderie and to share what’s on their mind.