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Last fall, Clackamas Community College launched a new degree in music performance and technology (MPT) – the only one of its kind in the Northwest. In celebration of the degree, the college is hosting a two-day festival, April 20 and 21, featuring percussionist Billy Martin of the jazz-funk trio Medeski Martin and Wood. Martin will work with CCC students in master classes as well as perform in concert.
“It’s really amazing to have a New York City artist here on campus,” CCC choral director Kathleen Hollingsworth said. She added that Martin’s music education came from Samba schools in New York and Brazil. “He’s a unique teacher. He embodies the MPT spirit in that he made his life his living and his authenticity his work.”
Check out the festival schedule below.
Wednesday, April 20:
- 10 a.m. Songwriting class: “The Fear and Mystery of Composing.” Free and open to the public. No registration required.
- 2-3:30 p.m. Drum master class. $20 to participate and perform; $5 to attend. Call 503-594-6299 to register.
Thursday, April 21:
- 10 a.m. Master class: “Life as an Artist/Touring Musician.” Free and open to the public. No registration required.
- 2 p.m. Music software company Ableton lab. Free and open to the public. Call 503-594-6299 to register.
- 6 p.m. Abelton presentation. Free and open to the public. No registration required.
- 7:30 p.m. Concert featuring Billy Martin and special guests. $5, pay at the door.
- 9 p.m. Electronic dance music throw-down.
The Thursday evening performances include CCC students and faculty. The EDM throw-down is hosted by DJ Joseph Lee, who will play digitally-programmed electronic compositions, created by CCC students.
