“Learning in the Right Key: Music Tech Summit Inspires Future Innovators”

The music industry may not always run like a well-oiled machine, but it wouldn’t run at all without people behind the scenes who use the power of technology to make musical magic. To help foster the next generation of leaders in such a highly demanded career, the Save The Music Foundation, Music Education Group, Fulton County Schools (FCS), and Atlanta Public Schools hosted the 3rd annual Atlanta Music Tech Summit.

“Getting to see the students interact and learn from industry professionals, from college professors, from historic names in the music field, and getting to see them collaborate with other students who are passionate about music technology in that setting is the best part of the summit,” says FCS coordinator of Performing Arts Matthew Koperniak.

The summit allows students to connect hands-on experience with their music tech education. The most recent two-day event was held on April 3rd and 4th at Therrell High School, where Fulton County students from Langston Hughes, Creekside, and Westlake high schools participated in breakout sessions, interactive workshops, and panel presentations. Industry professionals collaborated with participants in music-making sessions, giving the future innovators practical, real-time experience. The students even faced off in a DJ battle as one way to keep them locked in on learning and foster a little friendly competition.

“Every year, the summit expands just a little bit,” says Koperniak. “I think from our perspective, we’re looking for ways in which our students can be even more engaged in the process during the event. It’s been great to see it grow each year with more students, with more teachers, and certainly just a bigger footprint in terms of what it’s able to bring to students.”

Over the last two years, the Save the Music Foundation and Music Education Group have awarded the FCS Performing Arts Department eight grant awards valued at $250.000. A chunk of those funds purchased new musical instruments and equipment that were given to Creekside High School, Hapeville Elementary School, Love T. Nolan Elementary School, Renaissance Middle School, and Sandtown Middle School during the 2024-2025 school year. However, the real impact lies in how both groups bridge the gap between passion for music and professional development.

“We are so appreciative of the support we receive from Save the Music and Music Education Group,” remarks Koperniak. “They truly care about ensuring that what they’re providing makes a difference. It’s tremendous, the long-term support and positive relationship that we’ve developed over just a couple of years.”