I teach workshops on a variety of topics focused at the intersection of percussion and sound exploration. Workshops can be tailored to meet the unique needs of participants but have included the following topics: 
  • Junk Band Series: Learn how you can use found objects from around your home to create surprisingly beautiful beats. (STEAM focus)
  • Maker Series: Put your creative skills to use by using found objects to make percussive shakers, kalimbas and Springzingers. (STEAM focus)
  • Introduction to Electronic Music Production Series: Learn basic production skills such as mixing, drum programming, using MIDI instruments, applying effects and arranging songs using web based programs like Bandlab. 
  • The Science of Sound: Dive deeper in the science of sound and learn how to get the most sound out of your unconventional instruments. (STEAM focus)​
In a series of recent visits to students in Civic Circle after-school workshops, Jason gave students the opportunity to try their hands at creating digital music using a variety of free computer software programs. He also demonstrated the quirky sounds produced on his home-made instruments, and shared stories about how his life as a musician and instrument-maker has fostered civic and community connections in his life. Jason also explained how the STEM skills he teaches are applicable to a wide variety of other media platforms, a useful tool for any student exploring civic expression in the 21st Century. 

-Eliza Carney, President and Founder at Civic Circle, Silver Spring, MD


Jason's Music Discovery Lab workshop at the Petworth Community Market with Knowledge Commons DC was truly a 'hit'! He can make percussion instruments out of anything--for example: parts of a picnic table, a vase, a door jamb, or an old stove vent. After this workshop, I am now looking at all the items I have at home differently--what would produce the most awesome sound?

-Sonia Booth, Teaching Coordinator at Knowledge Commons DC, Washington, D.C.

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Jason's Music Discovery Lab was delightful.  My 7 year old son loved it.  Jason was encouraging, patient, and inspired creative exploration of all things in the room - including a bucket of water!  Who knew water could make music?

-Denise Mortimer, Takoma Park, MD

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