Downbeat 720

Downbeat 720 is an open-mic for high school performers and celebrating its twenty-second year!

The City’s long-running open-mic for high school performers invites students to perform their music, poetry, comedy, or art for participating students and professional artist mentors.

Performers will receive positive constructive feedback to help strengthen their performances - offering students a safe and supportive space for self-expression. Always FREE!

Downbeat 720 returns to Virginia Avenue Park Teen Center!

Every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month, from September 26, 2023 to June 25, 2024.

Downbeat 720 Schedule

7 p.m. Meet-and-greet

7:20 - 9 p.m. Official program

Location: The Virginia Avenue Park Teen Center, 2200 Virginia Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90404

Contact Us:

(310) 458-8350
culture@santamonica.gov

FAQ

What are the Downbeat Commandments?

1. Respect yourself, the other artists and the SPACE.

2. All styles and skill levels are EMBRACED.

3. Feel free to fall on your FACE.

4. Make sure you’re muted if it’s not your turn.

5. Keep your camera off ‘til you’re ready to go live.

6. Use the chat to hype up your fellow performers.

7. If you can stay 'til the end, that would be GREAT.

8. Put your cell phones on VIBRATE.

9. Bring a new friend EVERY TIME.

10. We love you and in two weeks we'll SEE YOU AGAIN.

Are there any videos about Downbeat or of past performances?

There's a 5-minute documentary on the program as well as some past performances you can watch here: www.youtube.com/downbeat720

Are there testimonials?

“Downbeat 720 — the BEST performance lab for teens. I love the positive support they get and the professionalism they learn.”

Ipolani Lott, Mother

"Downbeat 720 is one of the most magical things I have ever witnessed. It's a space where high school students from all over LA can come and perform their original pieces, sing a cover, read poetry, etc. Everyone was so supportive of each other. It's a place to take risks, to stand onstage and feel comfortable while experimenting and going outside of the comfort zone. It's also a place to meet people who are interested in similar things you are and who will compliment your skill sets beautifully."

--Owen Thiele, Singer

How did Downbeat start and which professional artists have performed at past sessions?

Downbeat 720 was created by Justin Yoffe, Ameenah Kaplan, Joe Hernandez-Kolski and DJ Jedi in 2001. Professional artists that have been invited to perform for the students in the past have included Grammy award-winning musicians like Aloe Blacc, Raul Pacheco (Ozomatli), comedian Craig Robinson (“The Office”), Akil the MC (Jurassic 5), poet/actress Amber Tamblyn (Joan of Arcadia) and a slew of nationally-ranked HBO Def Poets.

How can I stay informed about Downbeat?

Follow the Downbeat Instagram page: www.instagram.com/downbeat720.