UpBeat Music and Arts is a Chicago-based non-profit, helping youth reach their fullest potential through music. Upbeat helps students from all backgrounds connect with music, arts and each other. Students gain important life skills, develop a practice system, and learn to work with each other through after school programs, summer camps, performance opportunities, and group activities. CURRICULUM, VALUES, AND TEACHERS MAKE THE DIFFERENCE. The UpBeat teachers are not only outstanding musicians, but can really relate to young people. Students learn life lessons such as accountability, discipline, respect, kindness, and humility through fun and interactive lessons. Individual and peer-based, small group learning environments help facilitate social and emotional growth. In addition to learning the fundamentals of music performance and theory, students gain self-confidence and build self-esteem.