past programs

2022 - Ongoing

PBY 3-Tier Program

Remodel of our pilot program to better suit the needs of artists with different levels of expertise (beginner, intermediate, and advanced) 
Offers free access to a recording studio and 1-on-1 mentorship from a 100% Black leadership 
Program is led by Black youth and focused on empowering Black youth to succeed in the music industry 
Provide free access to a safe(r) space for young Black artists to work on their music projects 
Program covers food and transportation costs for program sessions

1500+

hours of free studio time
in 2024-2025

200+

Black youth participated in programming

$10,000

in honorarium given to program participants

Designed for Black youth who are new to music production and artistic development. Participants are introduced to foundational music production skills using the FL Studio digital audio workstation (DAW), alongside songwriting, recording, and beat-making basics. In a supportive, mentorship-driven environment led by Black artists, youth explore their creativity, build technical confidence, and gain a strong understanding of the creative process. This program creates an accessible and welcoming entry point for young artists beginning their musical journey.
Built for artists who have foundational experience and are ready to deepen their craft. This level places greater emphasis on developing artistry, refining personal branding, and strengthening technical production skills. Participants engage in more advanced studio practice while exploring their unique sound and creative identity, alongside immersive experiences such as artist photoshoots that support visual branding and professional presence. With continued mentorship and collaborative learning, artists gain clarity, confidence, and a stronger artistic voice.
Supports emerging Black artists in bringing a fully realized creative project to life. Participants work closely with experienced Black mentors to develop a clear vision, build a strategic plan, and move from concept to completion. The program provides guidance in budgeting, funding, scheduling, and release strategy, along with access to studio space and industry-standard equipment. Artists receive up to one year of dedicated support, as well as a $500 honorarium to help advance their project and creative goals.

2019-2022

PBY Pilot Program

Our Pilot Program introduced Black youth in Ottawa to foundational music production skills in a safe(r), mentorship-focused studio environment. Participants learned the basics of beat-making, recording, and songwriting while receiving guidance from Black artists who understood their lived experiences.

What began as a single program quickly revealed the demand for accessible creative spaces rooted in representation and community. The success of this pilot directly shaped the development of our three-tier model, allowing PBY to expand and better support artists at different stages of their growth.

2024-ongoing

midas board training with drew malamud

The Midas Board Training offers free, hands-on instruction for Black youth in Ottawa using a professional Midas H3000 analog mixing board, equipment that is typically inaccessible to emerging artists. Led by seasoned audio engineer and touring technician Drew Malamud, whose credits include Skrillex, Grizzly Bear, and Chromeo, participants develop practical skills in live sound engineering and analog mixing.

Hosted at the Club SAW concert venue, this training allows youth to experience and shape sound in a live performance setting while expanding their technical knowledge beyond the traditional recording studio.

2025-2026

PBY masterclasses

The PBY Masterclasses broughttogether 24 Black recording artists in Ottawa for three in-person workshops focused on live performance, artist identity, and grant writing. Led by respected Black professionals, including N’nerjie, LenZz, and Kingsley from The Framework, each session combined training with real-world insight.

Following each workshop, participants received 1-on-1 mentorship sessions to gain personalized feedback and develop tailored action plans. The program also provided free meals and studio access to break barriers and ensure all artists can participate.

2021

Sampling Session + Black Music History with Shaya Ishaq + Nick Dourado

In collaboration with Shaya Ishaq and SAW Gallery’s Library of Infinities exhibition, this workshop brought Black youth together for a hands-on vinyl sampling session paired with a deep discussion on Black music history led by Nick Dourado. Participants explored crate-digging techniques, learned how to sample from records, how to legally clear samples, and engaged in meaningful dialogue about the cultural and historical impact of Black music. The session connected technical skill-building with critical reflection on the legacy and influence of Black artistry.

2020-2021

PBY Mental Health and Music Podcast ‘The Pod’

The Pod was a bi-weekly podcast that creates space for honest conversations about music, mental health, and the lived experiences of young Black artists. Hosted from the perspective of Black musicians, the series explores topics such as Black entrepreneurship, systemic oppression, and anti-Black racism within the creative industry.

Mental health professionals were also invited to join virtually, offering guidance on the connection between artistic expression and emotional well-being. The podcast centered dialogue, reflection, and community care as essential parts of artistic development.

2021

PBY Masterclass with ROMderful

This virtual masterclass and music feedback session connected young Black artists with acclaimed producer ROMderful for an in-depth conversation about building a sustainable career in the music industry. Drawing from his experience as a full-time musician, ROMderful shared practical insight into navigating the industry while maintaining artistic integrity. Participants also had the opportunity to share their own music and receive constructive feedback, offering real-time guidance to strengthen their craft and creative direction.