In an era where many youths grapple with the monotonous undertones of everyday life, Boredomfighters is introducing them to the energetic world of modern music technology.
Through an interactive approach, Boredomfighters simplifies the complexities of music production, providing opportunities and resources that are previously out of reach for many young individuals.
Boredomfighters integrates traditional music education with the latest technology. Co-founder Tyler Manning explained that the primary goal of the organization is to instruct children on producing music using contemporary tools. They prioritize giving children access to modern music technology by bringing the studio experience directly to them.
“While most music curriculums are outdated, these kids are born with iPads in their hands. They're primed to explore new tech. We're passionate about instruments, vocals and traditional music knowledge, but we intertwine that with today's tech. It's about leaving a session with a tangible song, not just knowing how to play one," Manning said. “Attendees will get a taste of our workshops. They can play with synthesizers, beat pads, microphones and experience music creation firsthand."
Manning described the significance of their Instrument Garden Workshop as the event's centerpiece, uniting experienced musicians who tour the nation with families and their young ones.
"Our aim is to reduce the barriers for people to become musicians and to create songs. Through our workshops, we bring professionals who might seem unattainable to kids, showing them that collaboration with renowned musicians is not beyond their reach,” Manning said.
They don't strictly push music production as a career. Manning described the transformative power of their workshops, which frequently start with kids hesitating and end with those very kids singing, dancing and fully participating.
"The challenge is to introduce kids to something unfamiliar and initially intimidating, but the reward is seeing them embrace and thrive in it," Manning said. "It's about expression and discovering new potentials. Music production can be a hobby, but if someone wishes to pursue it professionally, we guide them."
The Boredomfighters' horizon is broadening, adopting a chapter model reminiscent of activist groups. Their Fort Collins chapter stands out, having ushered in hundreds of kids into the world of studio production.
The organization also has chapters in Denver, Long Beach in California and Detroit. Their overarching goal is clear-cut: to continuously expand, laying down a foundation so communities keen on these workshops can benefit. Boredomfighters has been active for ten years, but it wasn't until January that they established a Longmont chapter.
"We've spent the year building this ship, laying down the infrastructure, assembling the team and crafting marketing materials. This event is our blastoff moment, signaling to the community that we're here, and we're here to work,” Manning said.
The organization’s collaboration with Left Hand Brewing Company holds special significance.
"Working with Left Hand is exhilarating for us," Manning said. "They've always been innovatively creative in the events they organize. Their involvement with festival culture resonates with our roots. Collaborating with them feels like a homecoming of sorts."
On August 26, from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., Longmont will reverberate with the vibes of BOREDOMFEST, a free, all-ages event with live performances and interactive workshops.
