The Media Rhythm Institute (MRI) is running a six week Hip Hop songwriting and documentary-making courses for kids aged 8-18, July 10 –August 18, 2017 at The Peale Center for Baltimore History and Architecture. The first museum ever built in the US, the storied Peale will host the newest kinds of multimedia storytelling about the places and people of Baltimore thanks to courses taught by iRhyme and Channel Me Media. The Media Rhythm Institute is a new partnership between Channel Me Media and iRhyme, which was recently featured on WBAL and WMAR: WBAL: http://www.wbaltv.com/article/video-students-anti violencevideos-call-for-change/10019386
WMAR: http://www.abc2news.com/news/region/baltimorecity/music-recording-program-teaches-literacy-in-baltimore?page=2
Gary Hawkins III, youth media specialist and Media Rhythm Institute participant.
Jimmie Thomas, Filmmaker and co-founder of the Media Rhythm Institute, said: “This program gives the youth an opportunity to guide and enhance their network, skills and voices by learning how to use music, multimedia, reading and more to control their own narrative.” “iRhyme and Channel Me Media have helped hundreds of kids across the city apply their creativity and develop their skills in communication and entrepreneurship,” said Nancy Proctor, director of the Peale Center for Baltimore History and Architecture. “We are honored that thanks to the Media Rhythm Institute partnership, the Peale can be a new platform for their great work.” The courses run Mon-Thu from 6-8pm at the Peale, across from the City’s Abel Wolman Municipal Building on Holliday Street and next door to the Real News Network and Zion Church. For kids whose families can’t afford the discounted summer rate of $360 per course, the MRI has launched a crowdfunding campaign on Indiegogo: https://igg.me/at/mediarhythminstitute
This six week summer program harnesses the ambitions of young people who want to be like the media heroes they follow, and engages that energy to help students comprehend texts, sharpen math and communication skills, and learn 21st century skills in media, technology, and creative entrepreneurship. At the end of the courses, students produce DVDs of their work they can sell, developing sales, marketing, and business management skills. The students will also perform and present their work in a live event at the Peale.