Behind the Scenes of Production Month

Posted on by Claire James

Every September, Stax Music Academy celebrates Production Month with hands-on learning experiences and free community programs that highlight the many facets of audio production.

From student field trips to workshops with industry leaders, the month is designed to inspire, educate, and provide real-world insight into the art and business of making music.

Here’s a look at what’s happened so far and what’s still to come this September.

This year, students took their creativity out of the classroom and into the field with a special trip to Newberry Tanks, where they recorded unique audio samples for an innovative sound design project.

The challenge asked students to design original audio environments for an imaginary setting, brand, or concept. After an initial project briefing, they explored sound libraries, captured their own recordings on-site, and shaped their ideas using professional production software.

The project will culminate with a “final reveal,” where students present their completed works and receive expert feedback. Beyond the technical training, the experience fosters collaboration, imagination, and hands-on practice in one of music and media’s most essential elements: sound design.

Production students also had the rare opportunity to tour Sam Phillips Recording Studio, where they got a behind-the-scenes look at the recording process inside one of Memphis’ most iconic studios.

The visit included conversations with engineers and producers about the unique characteristics of the studio, while also giving students perspective on how recording techniques and production styles have evolved through the decades.

Upcoming Free Community Events

Stax Music Academy also extends Production Month beyond its own students by offering free workshops and events for all 6th–12th graders in the Greater Mid-South.

Thank You to Our Partners

Special thanks to our 2025 Production Month sponsors—Riker Records, Universal Audio, ArtsMemphis, Tennessee Arts Commission, and Ford Blue Oval City—for helping us provide these transformative opportunities in music education and production.