Noah has served as Executive Director of Old Library Studio since the nonprofit organization was founded  (under the name "NW Digital Art Kids"), in 2003, in that time he has proven to be a charismatic and effective leader, an inspiring teacher, a masterful sound engineer, and a playful composer.

A very resourceful and creative person, "Mr. Noah" is a person who can do a lot with very little. In recognition of his work at Old Library Studio the publishers of Willamette Week awarded Noah the 2006 Skidmore Prize for the Arts.

Noah holds a B.A. in Computer Music from the University of California at Santa Cruz. 

Testimonials

What Judith Belk has to say about Noah Kleiman (from her nomination letter for the 2006 Skidmore Prize): 

Initially hearing Noah and “his kids” in an NPR interview several years ago, I (Judy) had made a mental note to find out more about this fascinating studio where teens were turned on to learning to electronically record sound of any type—music, voice, sound effects, etc. Before long I became one of Noah’s students learning about microphones and their placement, how to lay down sound tracks, how to use software to record music, how to understand the technology behind recording and editing, etc. Not only was I learning in the company of other adults, but also had the joy of observing and interacting with teens who had begun to consider The Old Library Studio a second home. The intergenerational learning opportunities have been heartwarming. What a positive role model Noah has been to these teens who otherwise might not have found such wholesome and rewarding activities.

All of the adult students quickly became aware of awesome opportunities youngsters had to learn from Noah. His wisdom, ethics, creativity, broad arts and technical experience and ability to relate to teens have empowered them to express their own creativity and to receive praise for their labors of love. While school systems are cutting budgets for music education, Noah has created a grant opportunity to recreate his program in local schools and is receiving the same positive reception from teens as in his studio classes. Kids began to flock to these recording labs after school where they are receiving cutting edge arts and technology education. Teaching staff in their schools note numerous positive changes that these youngsters make, adding immeasurably to the school community--something very difficult to accomplish.

Noah's program design is destined to become a model for other successful programs in other communities. He has opened his program to young and old alike, yet it is the magic he unlocks in young people that sets him apart. His vision, teaching skills, and determined follow through deserve notice and recognition.

Judith Belk, Ph.D. Speech-Language Pathologist and Audiologist

with assistance by David Balding, Publisher