David Rogier: Last News

Anna Tingley If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Variety may receive an affiliate commission. John Legend is the latest A-lister to join the rapidly growing e-learning platform MasterClass, announced Thursday morning. The Grammy-winning songwriter, singer and musician will teach a class on songwriting, in which he’ll break down the composing process of some his most popular hits and offer inspiration for artists looking to find a unique voice. In one course, Legend offers an exclusive sneak peek into the creation of his latest single “Free” off his upcoming album, followed by a powerful performance of the song with a gospel choir. “Songs are core to who we are and are such an important part of humanity,” Legend said in statement. “My class will give you the tools to find your voice, figure out who you are and establish yourself with longevity so you can make a real impact through music.”

Anna Tingley If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Variety may receive an affiliate commission. In addition to rapidly growing its star-studded roster of teachers, MasterClass has found another way to attract more customers: lowering its price. The online learning platform announced on Tuesday that it will lower the price of a subscription from $15 to $10 per month. In addition to the price change, the service also unveiled new programming for the coming year, including an improv course taught by Amy Poehler set to release in the fall. In the classes, the Emmy-winning comedian will workshop real life scenarios with a live audience, teaching viewers how to approach flexibility, openness and humor. “By continuing to innovate the approach to our portfolio of content and making the platform more accessible, we’re not only unlocking potential in our members, we’re enabling them to realize it,” David Rogier, the founder and CEO of MasterClass, said in a statement.

Todd Spangler NY Digital EditorMasterClass, the celebrity-driven online learning subscription service with big-name Hollywood talent partners, has cut its headcount by 20%. CEO David Rogier cited “the worsening macroeconomic environment” for the cutbacks.The layoffs by San Francisco-based MasterClass, which previously had about 600 employees, affected all the company’s teams.“Today is a sad day @masterclass,” Rogier tweeted Wednesday.

Todd Spangler NY Digital EditorLen Amato, a 13-year veteran of HBO, joined MasterClass as chief content officer at the company that sells subscriptions to celebrity-led online courses.In the new role, Amato will head up MasterClass’ content organization and help lead content innovation, strategy and development of class launches. He reports to David Rogier, founder and CEO of MasterClass.Amato formerly served as president of HBO Films, Miniseries and Cinemax before he departed in late 2020.