Respect the Architect with Fess Grandiose

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.

Duration: 

6 Weeks

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 

Experience Requirements:

This course is open to beginners and intermediate students. You don’t need to be an expert producer or DJ, but it helps if you:

• Have a strong interest in electronic music history and culture.

• Are actively developing as a historian or artist (DJ, producer, or both). 

• Are ready to participate in discussions and ask questions. 

Software Requirements

• Stable Internet Connection for Zoom Sessions

Instructor: 

Fess Grandiose

Instructor Bio: 

Fess Grandiose is an electronic producer, DJ, and lifelong gearhead from Chicago, one of the world’s most influential cities for electronic music. A true history buff with over 15 years of performance experience, he’s held residencies across the city and launched his event series Open Beats. As the instructor of Respect the Architect, Fess helps students strengthen their foundation and build timeless electronic music from the ground up.

UMA Cancellation & Refund Policy

Enrollment & Payment

Enrollment is confirmed once payment is received. By registering for a course, workshop, or program, students agree to this cancellation and refund policy.

Course Refund Policy (Live Online Classes)

• 1. Partial Refund (A): A partial refund of 70% is available if the refund request is offered to those who submit a request 5 days before the course's designated start date.

• 2. Partial Refund (B): A partial refund of 40% is available if the refund request is initiated within 5 days after the course start date.

• 3. Refunds: No refunds will be issued after 5 days from the designated start date of the course.

• 4. Course Cancellation: If the course is canceled by the school, a pro- rated refund will be issued for classes that have not transpired.