You hear the low hum of laptops fill the room as students look over MIDI keyboards. Headphones either hang around their necks or rest on their desks, and the glow of computer screens lights up the production classroom at Gabrielino High School. Introducing Music Production—a brand-new addition to the music program at Gabrielino, giving students a whole new way to make music.
“A room built with all-black, soundproof walls and computers against the walls,” said senior Josiah Andrade.
“I’ve been waiting for the new production class for a long time,” said junior Liam. “Mr. Cartwright has been teaching us the business side of music as well as the music itself. It’s kind of like an art class—they give us the instructions, and then we do it ourselves.”
The class, which currently uses Soundtrap but plans to upgrade to Logic Pro soon, is designed to give students both creative freedom and real-world industry knowledge.
From mixing and producing to understanding contracts and networking, the course offers a rare opportunity to treat music like a career, not just a hobby.
For Daniel Gallegos, the experience has already been transformative. “I always liked doing music, but I never had the equipment for it,” he said. “Now I’ve been able to put my music ideas into fruition. The teacher even helped me when I was struggling with mixing.”
The program also connects students with opportunities outside the classroom. Mr. Cartwright is working on securing internships at music studios around Los Angeles, giving students a chance to step into the same spaces where chart-topping tracks are made.
Andrade, who has been producing music independently for years, said the class gives him a sense of community he didn’t have before. “My favorite project was making a demo song to share with the class,” he said. “To me, the class is an open space where we can express ourselves. It’s a really healthy environment—like when someone sings, no one is allowed to record them so they can express themselves freely.”
Students are experimenting with tools like MIDI keyboards, MacBooks, and Pro Tools while also learning to appreciate the different styles their classmates bring.
“The class is made for all types of students with different experience levels,” Josiah added. “I’ve been inspired by beginners because even though I’m more experienced, they’ve shown me some new things.”
With professional equipment, future internships, and a classroom full of creativity, Gabrielino High School’s music production class is striking a chord with students. And as they continue to create, collaborate, and explore the industry, the beat is only getting stronger.
