How do you get to Carnegie Hall? Practice, practice, practice!
Thanks to Black Thought, emerging MCs and hip-hop artists can make this classic, old school joke an actionable reality — for free.
On November 14, The Roots frontman announced on Instagram that the application window was now open for his upcoming Carnegie Hall Master Class, a three-day hip-hop workshop, taught at the infamous music venue in New York City.
On February 3, 4, and 5, 2020, Black Thought will provide a select cohort of student MCs with invaluable advice based on personal insight gleaned throughout his over 30-year career as a working performer. Participants ages 18–35 will refine their skills courtesy of Black Thought's expertise, as he leads exercises designed to "improve their overall artistry," according to the workshop's description on Carnegie Hall's website.
Under Black Thought's tutelage, students will "explore the history of hip-hop and examine the technical skills employed by the genre. […] This exploration will give participants the opportunity to hone their technical abilities and continue to craft their individual sounds."
As Black Thought's Instagram post teases, additional "surprise instructors" are also expected to drop in. Though an exciting opportunity for any aspiring MC, Black Thought's Master Class should not be viewed as merely an excuse to rub elbows with celebrities. With only three days to cram in a wealth of knowledge, selected participants should expect to show up ready to work.
"Invited MCs should come prepared to workshop their music, focusing on lyricism, flow, style, and delivery," the website reads.
The three-day intensive will commence with a final performance showcase featuring the MC scholars and their talents.
To be considered, Master Class hopefuls must digitally submit a 100–150-word biography, current headshot and two audition videos by December 6, 2019.
The first video should be a one-minute clip underscoring applicants' "lyricism, flow, style, and delivery" as they attempt to address the question, "Why music?" Applicants are also encouraged to share the video via their respective social media pages using #CarnegieHallBlackThoughtMC. The second, more personal video is a chance for prospective students to discuss their long-term creative aspirations, how they hope to improve their artistry and what they hope to gain from this educational experience in under two minutes.
Those who are selected to partake in the program will be notified by December 18, 2019, and class begins February 3, 2020.
For more information on the Black Thought Master Class, including more details on how to apply, check out the website.
