Stax Music Academy Hosted Beat Garden Workshop
Grammy-winning producer James Faunt-Leroy mentored students during a music production workshop in Memphis.
Updated on Sept. 27, 2026 in R&B

Live Poll
Do you believe local music programs adequately prepare students for careers in the industry?
Stax Music Academy hosted a music workshop for local students in Memphis, offering direct access to professional production tools and music technology. The Beat Garden workshop was led by producer James Faunt-Leroy.
Why it matters
The event was designed to empower young creatives in the local community by providing them with the resources and technical expertise needed to become the next generation of hitmakers.
The workshop was headlined by James Faunt-Leroy, who has won four Grammy awards throughout his career. Participants gained hands-on experience with production tools and technology provided by the academy.
The players
Stax Music Academy
This Memphis-based organization provides youth with music education and professional development in the industry.
James Faunt-Leroy
He is a multi-Grammy award-winning producer known for his extensive contributions to contemporary music production.
The details
Students engaged with music technology through the Beat Garden workshop to refine their production skills. The educational event concluded with a public student showcase held on Beale Street.
Timeline
The Stax Music Academy workshop took place on September 26, 2026.
Industry Dynamics
This initiative follows the Stax Music Academy's youth development curriculum, which serves as a vital pipeline for nurturing new talent within the Memphis music scene. By integrating high-level mentorship into the educational experience, the academy aligns itself with broader efforts to preserve the city's legacy while adapting to modern production trends.
Local residents and music fans in Memphis can continue to support the program by attending future student showcases held on Beale Street. These performances provide direct access for the public to witness the evolving talent coming out of the academy.
The takeaway
Hands-on access to professional-grade technology remains a critical factor for young artists attempting to bridge the gap into professional music production. Mentorship from established icons helps demystify the industry for students starting their careers.
Further reading
Learn more about the local scene at Memphis R&B.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Actionnews5.
Live Poll
Do you believe local music programs adequately prepare students for careers in the industry?










