As the sound studio continues to expand, more students are seeing the possibilities.
Caroline Bowman approached Coach Vaughan in the Fall of 2023 after seeing a drumkit in the sound studio. Her request was simple: drum lessons for free. Vaughan was quick to say yes – it takes very little to talk him into spending time in the studio.
These days, the studio in the mornings is a place to connect with others who share a passion for music and art. Sometimes there are lessons on the keys, drums, or guitar. Sometimes an impromptu karaoke session breaks out. In the control room you’ll find a lot of beat making with software like Logic Pro, Soundation, and Soundtrap.
“It’s fun to experience the endless possibilities with music and it’s also a great way to build connections with friends,” said Tori Lear, a STEAM freshman. Students interested in exploring music making or sound recording are encouraged to reach out to Coach Vaughan in room 110.
When STEAM opened this building, the studio was a blank, unfinished space. Vaughan walked into the building one Summer afternoon to find several boxes from Sweetwater (the online music megastore) lining the hallways outside the studio. He inquired to Flores about the boxes, to which Flores replied, “Open them up and get to work!”. Vaughan has been building the space ever since, piece by piece. He has taken donations from Fayette County Public Schools’ Fine Arts program, from local churches, and even parents who donated older instruments.
Stop by the studio on most mornings and you’ll find students playing instruments, getting lessons, or learning about the recording arts. It has become an informal hub where the arts are thriving.
