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Artfinix Studios: The Winter Sound Spectacular

Updated: 14 hours ago

This Winter, Artfinix Studios will present three distinct teacher-led music ensembles, each representing the artistic identity, cultural background, and musical passions of our instructors. Students will have the opportunity to participate through Student Drafts, where teachers hand-pick performers who best fit the ensemble’s creative direction.

Each ensemble is unique. Each director has their own vision.Together, they form an unforgettable Winter Showcase.

**WINTER ENSEMBLES

Three Ensembles. Three Genres. Three Artistic Visions.**

1. LATIN FIRE LIVE!

Directed by: Alex: Cumbias. Salsa. Bachata. Latin Rock. A celebration of Latin pulse and power.

Concept:A high-energy Latin ensemble that immerses students in the rich rhythms and

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musical traditions of Latin America. This ensemble celebrates cultural heritage through danceable grooves, melodic storytelling, and percussive drive.

Musical Styles Featured:

  • Cumbias

  • Salsa

  • Bachata

  • Latin Rock

  • Mexican repertoire selections

Ensemble Experience:Students will explore syncopation, percussion-heavy arrangements, and the unique emotional expression found in Latin genres. The ensemble may also include brief cultural introductions or rhythmic demonstrations.

Student Draft Approach:Alex will hand-select students who demonstrate interest in Latin styles, rhythmic feel, or cultural curiosity. Participation is optional, and students may accept or decline.

Show Elements:

  • Latin percussion breaks

  • Audience clapping/rhythm interactions

  • Movement-forward performance atmosphere

2. FUNK & SOUL CITY

Directed by: Isaiah: Bass. Groove. Heart. The sound that moves the room.

Concept:A groove-driven ensemble inspired by the classic and modern sounds of Funk and Soul. Isaiah brings timeless energy to the stage with music that invites movement, emotion, and expressive performance.


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Musical Styles Featured:

  • Classic Soul

  • Modern Soul

  • Funk

  • Groove-based ensemble pieces

Ensemble Experience:Students will focus on pocket, dynamics, feel, and the expressive qualities that define Funk and Soul performance. Expect strong rhythm sections, call-and-response moments, and big ensemble energy.

Student Draft Approach:Isaiah will draft students who show a natural feel for groove, confidence on their instrument or voice, or interest in expressive soul-driven music.

Show Elements:

  • Funk basslines

  • Horn or vocal feature moments

  • Crowd-engaging energy

3. REEL TO REAL:

R&B & HIP-HOP EVOLUTION**Directed by: Sam: From classics to today’s hits — experience the art of sampling, interpolation, and evolution.

Concept:A genre-blending ensemble that connects past and present by pairing original Soul/R&B classics with their modern Hip-Hop and Pop interpolations. Students will perform both sides of the musical lineage.

Example Pairings:

  • Bootsy Collins “I’d Rather Be With You” → Childish Gambino “Redbone”

  • Curtis Mayfield “Move On Up” → Kanye West “Touch the Sky”

  • Gap Band “Outstanding” → Tyler, the Creator “911”


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Musical Styles Featured:

  • Soul

  • R&B

  • Hip-Hop

  • Contemporary Pop

Ensemble Experience:Students learn how modern music builds on the past—grooves, melodies, harmonies, and production techniques. The performance becomes a live musical documentary showing evolution, influence, and cultural impact.

Student Draft Approach:Sam will draft students with curiosity, creativity, and a love for modern styles. Students who enjoy storytelling through music or who are excited about current hits will thrive here.

Show Elements:

  • Side-by-side original vs. modern arrangements

  • Narrated transitions explaining musical lineage

  • “Guess the Sample” pre-show audience activity

**STUDENT DRAFTS

A New Artistic Tradition at Artfinix Studios**

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How It Works:

  • Each teacher selects students based on musical fit, potential, or stylistic passion.

  • Draft invitations are celebratory—students are being recognized for growth and promise.

  • Students can accept or decline with no pressure or expectation.

  • The Draft process builds community, excitement, and recognition.

Why It’s Meaningful:

  • Students feel seen and validated.

  • Teachers get to design ensembles with intentional artistry.

  • Families experience a more curated and elevated performance.

 
 
 
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