Learning, music, and fun at The Move Music & Education
For the past year, AJ Capra has looked forward to one thing each week: DJ class with Daniel Nigra, known professionally as DJ Danny D Rock, founder and lead creative director at The Move Music & Education.
AJ takes part in a hands-on DJ and music education program in a classroom filled with records, a piano, a DJ controller, and other equipment.
As soon as AJ arrives, he heads straight to the DJ controller, eager to start.
“I love music,” said AJ.
Each lesson begins with AJ choosing the first song. On May 6, AJ selected “We Are Young” by fun.
“AJ comes in with a great attitude and great energy every time he’s here,” Danny said. “We worked on music that he knows, and music that he doesn’t know, so it’s always amazing to see him grow through different genres and styles of music.”
In addition to mixing music, lessons also incorporate music theory and listening skills.
“How many keys are in an octave?” Joseph Trapani, Direct Support Professional, asked AJ, to which he replied, “Eight.”
Joseph, said that during the week, they review what AJ learned in class.
“The lesson is great,” Joseph said. “AJ looks forward to it so much, I look forward to taking him.”
Danny said music also provides opportunities for self-expression and emotional connection.
“There are songs that are happy, and songs that are sad. And, music creates moods and atmospheres,” said Danny. “So, it’s an amazing opportunity to see him explore so many different things that he could love or not even know.”
Each lesson lasts at least 45 minutes, with most of the time spent performing sets that include popular songs and some hidden gems.
AJ’s favorite sound effect is a rooster call, which he adds because he loves roosters and his family requested it.
“We love it,” said Alexandria Capra, AJ’s mom. “He always loved music. As a young child, he played the piano, and that’s how we knew he had some skill and that he really enjoyed it. It relaxed him.”
Danny said AJ plays his best set when his family was there, inspired by their support and the excitement of having an audience.
Great job, DJ AJ!
