Teens looking for something new and interesting to do this summer should check out the Panorama Teen and Family Resource Center's digital music recording studio.

"They can come here without knowing anything (about recording music) and have an instructor walk them through the process," said Panorama program manager Natasha Stewart.

The process involves students writing, singing, editing and producing their own music. "We try to get their creativity flowing as easily as possible," said instructor John Cedres. "The goal is to make them feel successful at making music."

The year-round program is offered free of charge to youths ages 12 to 18. Teens only are required to fill out an application listing basic information.

During scheduled, one-hour sessions, students use the studio to record their voice or produce or edit their music.

"If they are constructive in the studio, I give them more time," Cedres said.

Both Stewart and Cedres mentioned the program's popularity. "We have a lot of kids who bring their friends," Stewart said.

Another benefit of the program is that participants can get a copy of their finished project to share with family and friends.

"They can record their music on a CD and take it home with them," Cedres said.

Cedres explained that the program is designed to be one-on-one; however, teens can work in groups if desired. Students also are given the freedom to decide want they want to work on during their sessions. This allows those who are interested only in singing or producing the work of others to do just that.

About 70 students participate in the program, which has been running for about eight months thanks to a technology grant the center earned last summer. The center also is constantly looking for donations, instruments and ways to upgrade the musical equipment.

"We are trying to make this as close to industry standard as possible," Cedres added.

The Panorama Teen and Family Resource Center "is a place to learn, to create and to inspire" as described by Stewart. Although it focuses on providing academic tutoring, the center created this musical program as a safe after-school activity for local youths.

The center is at 131 Richmar Ave., in San Marcos, and is open from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. weekdays. For information, call (760) 471-9449.

Martha Sarabia can be reached by e-mail at sarabiamartha@yahoo.com.