Tulsa Public Schools students record original songs at historic Church Studio

A group of more than 50 Tulsa Public Schools students are getting the opportunity to record their own original songs at a historic recording studio.

The program is funded by the Darby Foundation and led by Symon Hajjar of Hot Toast Music Company.

Hot Toast Mission

Hot Toast Music Company collaborates with kids to create the ultimate mixtape for growing up. He draws inspiration from the wonder of childhood and the power of music to inspire, teach, and connect a community.

Making Music

Over the last seven months, Mr. Symon has been working with second graders from Hawthorne, Springdale, John Hope Franklin, and Anderson Elementary Schools.

Together, they used tiny pianos to create melodic patterns and brainstorm lyrics for original songs themed around the question, "What message do you want to send to your future self?"

Studio Session

Now that the students have completed their songs, it is time to record them.

They are heading into the Church Studio, a recording studio in Tulsa located in a converted church building. It was established in 1972 by musician, songwriter, and producer Leon Russell.

During their visit, the second graders will also get to tour the historic building. It is Mr. Symon's fourth time bringing students into the Church Studio to record original songs. The second graders will perform all three songs during Children's Day at the Philbrook Museum of Art on Saturday, May 3 at 1 p.m.