Course Description
Respect the Architect is a six week deep dive into the mindset, methods, and discipline behind building timeless electronic music from the ground up. Led by Chicago artist and producer Fess Grandiose. Through live discussions, students will gain a deep understanding of the foundational elements and influential figures that have shaped electronic music.
Over the course of six weeks, students will also meet and communicate directly with some of the legends, artists, innovators, and cultural contributors who have helped define the sound and movement of electronic music. These weekly conversations offer rare insight into the creative process, the culture, and the choices that shape lasting work.
Blending history, philosophy, and real world perspective, Respect the Architect helps students strengthen their musical foundation, expand their understanding of the genre, and sharpen their identity as future leaders.
Dates and Times
Live sessions for this course will meet online via Zoom every Saturday at 12:00pm to 1:30pm Eastern Standard. Starting March 7th to April 11th, 2026.
Schedules are subject to change. Changes to the schedule will be communicated to students in a timely manner by the instructor or one of UMA’s team members.
On Demand
Registered students will have access to this course throughout its six week duration and for an additional six weeks following completion.
Learning Outcomes
Understand the origins and global evolution of electronic music.
Identify key foundational elements, genres, and influential figures.
Analyze music through an architect’s lens (structure, intention, discipline).
Apply historical and cultural context to your own creative process.
Learn directly from weekly guest leaders and extract real-world insights.
Develop a clearer artistic identity and leadership mindset for long term growth.
Course Level
Beginner / Intermediate / Pro
On Demand
Registered students will have access to this course throughout its six week duration and for an additional six weeks following completion.
Software Requirements
Stable Internet Connection for Zoom Sessions
Hardware Requirements
Other Recommendations
Your Instructor
Fess Grandiose
Fess Grandiose is an electronic producer, DJ, and lifelong gearhead whose artistry is rooted in the culture and legacy of his birthplace of Chicago, one of the world’s most important cities for electronic music. Known as a true history buff, Fess brings deep knowledge, sharp perspective, and real world experience into every conversation, connecting today’s artists to the foundations that shaped the genre. With over 15 years of live performance experience, he’s held residencies throughout Chicago and launched his own event series, Open Beats. As the instructor of Respect the Architect, Fess helps students strengthen their musical foundation, sharpen their identity, and learn how timeless electronic music is built from the ground up.
