Long & McQuade Learning Series - Vancouver, BC

Saturday, March 14 | 2:00pm

Recording & Producton: Use What You’ve Got. Love What You Have
With Ben Mink

In this clinic, Grammy- and Juno-award winning producer and composer Ben Mink discusses how to make the most of the gear you have and things you’d never considered recording. This is a rare opportunity to learn from one of Canada’s best.

Ben Mink’s musical career spans decades with production and composing collaborations with kd Lang, Rush, Daniel Lanois, Heart, Feist and James Hetfield, to name a few.  He has an impressive list of Grammy and Juno nominations and awards, as well as credits on many chart-topping songs. 

 

*****
RSVP and inquiries:  [email protected]

 

Tuesday, March 17 | 11:00am

Sight Reading and Rhythm Drill Books
With Barbara Siemens

Explore the Sight Reading and Rhythm Drill Books, unique resources for the private studio or class room setting. The books systematically present keys, intervals, and rhythms, with lots of repetition to connect visual patterns to the tactile skills, a must for secure sight reading.

Initially developed for piano study, the books can easily be adapted for other instruments as well as sight singing. The workshop will provide an overview of both series with practical tips for practicing either in lessons or at home.                

Barbara M. Siemens holds a Master of Arts in Historical Musicology and a Bachelor of Music (Piano) from U.B.C., as well as an A.R.C.T. Piano Performer’s Diploma and an A.R.C.T. Piano Pedagogy Diploma. She has been a private music teacher for over thirty years and has twenty-five years of experience as an RCM senior examiner and festival adjudicator.  Along with her teaching,  Barbara has distilled her pedagogical knowledge into her publications for both students and instructors. She is currently serving as President of the British Columbia Registered Music Teachers’ Association (BCRMTA) and 1st Vice President of the Canadian Federation of Music Teachers’ Association (CFMTA).

 

*****
RSVP and inquiries: [email protected]

 

Saturday, March 28 | 2:00pm

DJ Fundamentals: From First Tracks to Your First Gig
With DJ R3D

This beginner-friendly workshop introduces the core skills needed to start DJing with confidence. DJ R3D will cover essential topics including understanding DJ equipment, basic mixing techniques, track selection, and how to build your first set. Attendees will also learn practical tips on practicing effectively and preparing for their first live performance. The session will finish with a live demo and open Q&A.         

DJ R3D is a Dublin-born, Vancouver-based DJ known for high-energy performances across clubs, private events, and brand activations. Since moving to Canada, he has become a regular presence in the local nightlife scene and frequently works with global brands such as Adidas and Red Bull. His work combines performance, content creation, and community engagement, with a focus on helping new DJs build confidence and real-world skills.

 

*****
RSVP and inquiries: [email protected]