‘Project Amplify’ sparks curiosity and creativity through beat boxing at District 191 elementary schools

Thanks to a partnership with MacPhail Center for Music, District 191 music specialists are able to provide “Spark Experiences” to students through Project Amplify and its artist in residence programming, the Global Music Initiative (GMI). 

Last week, Terrell X’avion visited Vista View and Rahn Elementary Schools to teach students how to make music with their bodies. For three days, students enjoyed learning the sounds, rhythms, beats and techniques of beat boxing. The highlight, however, was when Woods closed out his visit by beat boxing to a song about 6-7, which is an internet meme that emerged from social media in 2025. Every student enthusiastically joined in, singing and motioning 6-7 with their hands!  

“The partnership we have with Terrell has created a powerful and lasting learning experience for students,” said Alyssa Eggersgluss, music specialist. “He not only brings with him a wealth of knowledge about beatboxing, rap, and hip hop music, but he inspires students to be bold, kind, and tenacious. We look forward to his visit all year!” 

Woods has spent almost 30 years making music, motivational speaking, performing live as a one-man band, touring the world and working with both youth and adults from various socio-economic backgrounds. He has spent 16 of those years teaching human beat boxing/vocal percussion, song writing and composing short stage plays – building an impressive artist resume that extends all the way to Europe and Asia.

Project Amplify and GMI bring exciting, culturally relevant, inclusive and free music performances and education opportunities to communities and schools across Minnesota. Teaching artists in residence share their music with students in meaningful experiences outside of traditional approaches to music education, at no cost to schools. 

Learn more about Project Amplify and Terrell Woods’ highly-respected work at https://www.macphail.org/music-education-project-amplify/.

Elementary specialists strengthening Pathways with Spark Experiences

“Sparking curiosity and wonder in each student.” That’s the driving force behind Pathways at the elementary level in District 191. It’s not about having young learners pick their future career, it’s about allowing students to discover a world of possibilities through rich learning experiences. Opportunities for this type of interaction are found throughout the school day, and one example is the district’s specialists coming together to provide amazing experiences for every student.