THE CLIKS PRODUCTIONS INC. PRESENTS
TRANSCENDENCE IN SOUND
Welcome to "Transcendence In Sound," where music meets mentorship. This program aims to empower transgender, non-binary, and all gender non-conforming musicians as they navigate the professional music industry. Divided into three core categories, Transcendence in Sound caters to participants of all skill levels and experiences.
With over three decades of professional musical experience, including navigating the highs and lows of the industry as both an independent artist and a major label-signed musician with my band, The Cliks, I intimately understand the harmonies and dissonances of the music world.
As the first openly transgender man to secure a major label record deal in 2006, I found myself charting uncharted waters, facing challenges with courage and determination. In those times, I longed for a mentor, someone who understood the nuances of my experience, yet there was no one to turn to. Now, I stand as that guiding light for aspiring trans musicians, songwriters, and performers.
"Transcendence In Sound" isn't just about making music; it's about empowering individuals to navigate the industry with knowledge, confidence, and authenticity. Whether you're stepping into the spotlight for the first time or seeking to amplify your voice in a crowded arena, I'm here to provide the guidance and support you need to elevate your craft and transcend barriers.
Our initial pilot program, consisting of eight separate workshops running from early September to early December 2024 and is funded by the Artists In The Library granting body of the Toronto Arts Council in collaboration with the Toronto Public Library. It is accessible and offered free of cost to individuals on a first-come, first-serve basis at the Danforth/Coxwell location of the Toronto Public Library. All registration and workshop schedule details below.
Beyond this initial launch, my goal is to secure further funding to continue offering this program in the future for free, either in group settings or individually. I am acutely aware of the financial constraints faced by both independent artists and individuals from marginalized communities, and it is my commitment to ensure accessibility to invaluable resources and support.
I will be applying for future granting opportunities and for donations to make this possible.
Join me on this transformative journey where we harmonize our experiences, embrace our identities, and create a symphony of success!
In other words, I'm stoked to meet you all!
REGISTRATION PROCESS:
Registration for the Transcendence in Sound program at the Toronto Public Library operates on a first-come, first-served basis in accordance with TPL policies. This inclusive workshop is specifically tailored for individuals under the transgender umbrella, providing a safe and supportive space to explore music. Allies within the music industry or aspiring to join are encouraged to participate, gaining insight into the unique challenges faced by transgender individuals and how they can offer support.
Registration for the program will go through the Toronto Public Library can be completed either in person at the branch or via telephone. This allows participants the flexibility to choose the method that best suits their preferences.
When registering, please provide your name and phone number. We request your phone number so we can notify you in the event of a workshop cancellation. If you choose not to share your phone number, we kindly ask that you proactively check directly with the library to confirm workshop status.
TPL COXWELL/DANFORTH BRANCH
1675 Danforth Avenue,
Toronto, ON, M4C 5P2
Phone: 14163937783
WORKSHOP SCHEDULE (2024):
September 5th, 19th
October 3rd, 17th,
November 7th, 14th, 21st
December 5th
All workshops will be from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
PROGRAM OVERVIEW:
CATEGORY 1 : Skill Enhancement
Session 1: Songwriting Mastery - September 5th -
Participants will dive deep into the art of songwriting. From crafting compelling lyrics to melodies that resonate, we'll explore various techniques and exercises to refine your songwriting skills.
Session 2: Production Prowess - September 19th -
*With Special Guest Speaker, Hill Kourkoutis (See details on speaker below)
We will guide you through the art of music production. I will lend you tools on how to navigate accessible entry level digital audio workstations (Garage band/Logic Pro) to record and edit tracks, and create polished, professional-sounding music.
CATEGORY 2: Performance Excellence
Session 3: Stage Presence and Performance - October 3rd -
*With Special Guest Speaker, Teiya Kasahara (See details on speaker below)
I will lend you my perspective in how to become a captivating performer with a deep dive into stage presence, live performance, techniques, and how to connect with your audience.
Session 4: Live Performance Workshop - October 17th -
We will put newfound skills to the test with a hands-on workshop. You will have the opportunity to perform live, receive constructive feedback, and refine your stagecraft.
CATEGORY 3: Professional Development
Session 5: Self-Management and Career Strategy - November 7th -
Learning the ins and outs of self-management in the music industry, from booking gigs to budgeting and marketing. Crafting a personalized career strategy to navigate the industry successfully.
Session 6: Music Licensing and Publishing -November 14th -
*Special Guest speaker, Sarah Sleeth, Owner of Twin Fang Records
Discovering how to monetize your music through licensing and publishing and tools on how to navigate the legal aspects of the industry, protect intellectual property, and explore opportunities for revenue generation.
Session 7: Vocal Mastery and Hormonal Transition
For trans men, non-binary, and gender non-conforming individuals undergoing testosterone hormonal transition, this session will address the unique challenges of vocal changes. We will explore techniques on how to adapt your singing voice and maintain artistic expression.
Session 8: Celebration - Trans Joy
This is an opportunity for participants to perform or present any of their work that they have created during the program. If in a group setting, you will perform in front of other participants and if in a private setting, you will perform in my private studio and I welcome you to invite a handful of guests for your audience
With over three decades of professional musical experience, including navigating the highs and lows of the industry as both an independent artist and a major label-signed musician with my band, The Cliks, I intimately understand the harmonies and dissonances of the music world.
As the first openly transgender man to secure a major label record deal in 2006, I found myself charting uncharted waters, facing challenges with courage and determination. In those times, I longed for a mentor, someone who understood the nuances of my experience, yet there was no one to turn to. Now, I stand as that guiding light for aspiring trans musicians, songwriters, and performers.
"Transcendence In Sound" isn't just about making music; it's about empowering individuals to navigate the industry with knowledge, confidence, and authenticity. Whether you're stepping into the spotlight for the first time or seeking to amplify your voice in a crowded arena, I'm here to provide the guidance and support you need to elevate your craft and transcend barriers.
Our initial pilot program, consisting of eight separate workshops running from early September to early December 2024 and is funded by the Artists In The Library granting body of the Toronto Arts Council in collaboration with the Toronto Public Library. It is accessible and offered free of cost to individuals on a first-come, first-serve basis at the Danforth/Coxwell location of the Toronto Public Library. All registration and workshop schedule details below.
Beyond this initial launch, my goal is to secure further funding to continue offering this program in the future for free, either in group settings or individually. I am acutely aware of the financial constraints faced by both independent artists and individuals from marginalized communities, and it is my commitment to ensure accessibility to invaluable resources and support.
I will be applying for future granting opportunities and for donations to make this possible.
Join me on this transformative journey where we harmonize our experiences, embrace our identities, and create a symphony of success!
In other words, I'm stoked to meet you all!
REGISTRATION PROCESS:
Registration for the Transcendence in Sound program at the Toronto Public Library operates on a first-come, first-served basis in accordance with TPL policies. This inclusive workshop is specifically tailored for individuals under the transgender umbrella, providing a safe and supportive space to explore music. Allies within the music industry or aspiring to join are encouraged to participate, gaining insight into the unique challenges faced by transgender individuals and how they can offer support.
Registration for the program will go through the Toronto Public Library can be completed either in person at the branch or via telephone. This allows participants the flexibility to choose the method that best suits their preferences.
When registering, please provide your name and phone number. We request your phone number so we can notify you in the event of a workshop cancellation. If you choose not to share your phone number, we kindly ask that you proactively check directly with the library to confirm workshop status.
TPL COXWELL/DANFORTH BRANCH
1675 Danforth Avenue,
Toronto, ON, M4C 5P2
Phone: 14163937783
WORKSHOP SCHEDULE (2024):
September 5th, 19th
October 3rd, 17th,
November 7th, 14th, 21st
December 5th
All workshops will be from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
PROGRAM OVERVIEW:
CATEGORY 1 : Skill Enhancement
Session 1: Songwriting Mastery - September 5th -
Participants will dive deep into the art of songwriting. From crafting compelling lyrics to melodies that resonate, we'll explore various techniques and exercises to refine your songwriting skills.
Session 2: Production Prowess - September 19th -
*With Special Guest Speaker, Hill Kourkoutis (See details on speaker below)
We will guide you through the art of music production. I will lend you tools on how to navigate accessible entry level digital audio workstations (Garage band/Logic Pro) to record and edit tracks, and create polished, professional-sounding music.
CATEGORY 2: Performance Excellence
Session 3: Stage Presence and Performance - October 3rd -
*With Special Guest Speaker, Teiya Kasahara (See details on speaker below)
I will lend you my perspective in how to become a captivating performer with a deep dive into stage presence, live performance, techniques, and how to connect with your audience.
Session 4: Live Performance Workshop - October 17th -
We will put newfound skills to the test with a hands-on workshop. You will have the opportunity to perform live, receive constructive feedback, and refine your stagecraft.
CATEGORY 3: Professional Development
Session 5: Self-Management and Career Strategy - November 7th -
Learning the ins and outs of self-management in the music industry, from booking gigs to budgeting and marketing. Crafting a personalized career strategy to navigate the industry successfully.
Session 6: Music Licensing and Publishing -November 14th -
*Special Guest speaker, Sarah Sleeth, Owner of Twin Fang Records
Discovering how to monetize your music through licensing and publishing and tools on how to navigate the legal aspects of the industry, protect intellectual property, and explore opportunities for revenue generation.
Session 7: Vocal Mastery and Hormonal Transition
For trans men, non-binary, and gender non-conforming individuals undergoing testosterone hormonal transition, this session will address the unique challenges of vocal changes. We will explore techniques on how to adapt your singing voice and maintain artistic expression.
Session 8: Celebration - Trans Joy
This is an opportunity for participants to perform or present any of their work that they have created during the program. If in a group setting, you will perform in front of other participants and if in a private setting, you will perform in my private studio and I welcome you to invite a handful of guests for your audience
PROGRAM CREATOR
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LUCAS SILVEIRA
Singer-songwriter, musician, performer, multi-instrumentalist, public speaker, tv host, visual artist, and mentor. First out trans man signed to a major label record deal. President and founder of The Cliks Productions Inc. Pronouns: he/him Lucas has over two decades of experience in the mainstream music & entertainment industry as a multi disciplinary artist. He will be leading the entire workshop series and sharing his knowledge on all subjects introduced in the workshops. To find out more about Lucas, go to link: http://www.thecliks.com/lucas-silveira.html |
ABOUT SPECIAL GUEST SPEAKERS:
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HILL KOURKOUTIS
JUNO Award-winning producer, songwriter, engineer, mixer, artist, multi-instrumentalist and filmmaker. Pronouns: she/her. September 19th - Production Prowess *Click on file for full bio. 
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TEIYA KASAHARA
Queer, trans non-binary opera singer and creator-performer. Pronouns: they/them, he/him. October 3rd - Stage Presence & Performance *Click on file for full bio.
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SARAH SLEETH
Twin Fang Records Owner Pronouns: she/her November 14th - Music Licensing & Publishing Twin Fang Records is a record label, management company, and label services company based in Toronto, ON. Twin Fang offers years of experience, attention to detail and a boundless respect for music and its makers. Female and queer-owned and operated, Twin Fang is a place built for women, queer, non-binary, trans folk and allies, with a mission to create more representation in the industry. Most of all, Twin Fang is a place built for community, a place where fandom lives and thrives, and a place for sharing newest faves with oldest buds. www.twinfangrecords.com/ *Click on file for full bio.
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WANT TO HELP US PROMOTE THE WORKSHOPS? DOWNLOAD A HIGH RES POSTER BY CLICKING THE FILE!
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Transcendence in Sound was produced with the support of the City of Toronto through the Toronto Arts Council & Toronto Public Library
