East Lake Expression Engine is an after-school and summer music program that seeks to develop the creativity, discipline, problem solving skills, social skills, and spiritual maturity of its students through musical instruction and collaboration in a gospel-centered environment.
Music! Joy! Hope!
Welcome to East Lake, a gem on the outskirts of Chattanooga, TN. Our community represents a diverse group of people and here at Expression Engine we try to embody that in our work. This summer we celebrated 9 years of the Engine, and every year we get more grateful to be able to work with these families. To date, we have served over 500 students and have put on more than 25 individual concerts and events with our students.
Our Goal
We do want to make quality music education accessible to everyone, but our biggest goal is the wholistic cultivation of each of our students. We want to produce students that are confident, and kind, and can walk into any space and help those around them be better.
Our Supporters
As an independent 501c3 nonprofit, donations make up the core of our funding. Our donors are our champions. They make it possible for us to do what we love and continue the work. They pray for us, they uplift us, and they help us reach our goals.
Our Methods
We are an El Sistema based program. We believe in using music as a tool, one which can give our students new ways to engage with the world and with their peers. Since we do not require attendance, lean heavily on peer teaching. If a student comes one day, the next day they can show their new friends how to replicate what they have learned.
Our Practice
The kids are our future. We want to equip them as best we can. If you want to join us on our mission, reach out! We love hearing from people.
It’s happening within our programs. Our kids are becoming the leaders. Our kids are becoming the teachers. The kids are going to run these programs, and it’s happening at Expression Engine.
— Eric Booth, EL Sistema USA.
Jump On Board
We offer a range of classes during program time. From tutoring, to instrument lessons, to a competitive game of soccer during recess. Come join us!
