Explore our Arts Academy
Enroll in Winter Classes
Our Fall classes for ages 8 to 22 are open for registration and are available as in-person classes in Washington, DC or as virtual courses online.
Innovative Hip-hop C
urriculum
Join our creative arts classes to propel your career as a DJ, fashion designer, music producer, radio broadcaster, artist, or poet.
Academy Spotlights
Kristen Arant
African Drumming
Kristen is a musician, activist and teaching artist whose mission is to facilitate skilled artistry and self-expression, and to build camaraderie and community towards the goal of creating social change among a diverse student body. Originally an oboe player majoring in music and inspired to drum via her activist pursuits, Kristen has studied West African drumming, song and percussion for 20 years to utilize these art forms as her primary tools in furthering her mission.
Andy Perez
Chess Instructor
Andy Perez is a recent graduate of California State Polytechnic University, Pomona with a BA in History. In the fall, he will be attending the teaching credential program of the same school so that he can become a certified social science teacher. Andy has a deep passion for educating and assisting youth so that they can accomplish their goals. In his free time, Andy is a major film buff and enjoys learning more about history.
UPCOMING EVENTS & PROGRAMS
Uncover Our Wide Range of Community Programs
Check out what we accomplished in 2024 with this rap-up video from Trus real.
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The Counterbalance Blog
The Power of Art in Advocacy and Social Change
Sasa Aakil is a force of nature. Previously part of our extensive Youth Poet Laureate program, we’ve been honored to work alongside Aakil as she navigates her career in poetry and advocacy. In addition to mentorship, performance opportunities and skill advancement, our YPLs advance their careers by becoming published authors.
Exclusive Interview with Patrick Washington: From OG of DC's Black Broadway to Director of Poetry at the Words Beats & Life Academy
Patrick Washington, director of poetry at the Words Beats & Life Academy, shares his journey as an independent artist and activist, exploring '90's hip-hop, go-go and his vision for youth poets to fight marginalization.
AI Bionix: Exploring the Impact of AI on Music
Art? Official? Intelligence? AI is here. What does it mean for human expression? Drake rapping Ice Spice’s “Munch.” Biggie rapping Nas’ “New York State of Mind.” Timbaland making a brand new song with the Notorious B.I.G. and these are just the most recent ones. You can’t put Pandora back in the box — we are in the era of AI!
