Name
Scratching the Surface: Innovative Curricula with DJ Controllers
Date & Time
Tuesday, July 28, 2026, 2:50 PM - 3:50 PM
Description
The increased affordability of music technology, and shifting attitudes among some music educators seeking to expand access to music education experiences for more students, has led to the exploration of laptops as instruments (Wang, 2016), Ableton’s Push as an instrument (bell, 2018), the sampling and beat-making device Maschine as a musical instrument (Kladder, 2016), and DJ controllers as musical instruments (de Llera Blanes, 2017). In the past decade, DJing in music education has become more common as teachers seek to engage more students with music experiences that are relevant to them (Dale, 2017). Despite the increased presence of DJ controllers in education, there is a dearth of resources for music educators who are seeking to bring DJing into their curriculum.This session offers music educators an accessible introduction to the contemporary tools and techniques of DJ culture, tailored specifically for elementary and secondary classrooms. Participants will gain practical insights into selecting affordable and effective hardware and software, designing engaging curriculum, and developing assessment strategies that align with educational goals. Beyond the technical, this session situates DJing within a culturally responsive framework, illustrating how it connects to students’ lived experiences and fosters inclusivity. The session also examines how DJing embodies the National Core Arts Standards, with particular attention to the often-overlooked process components of creating and connecting. Educators will explore how to engage students in composing and improvising through DJing, while making connections to cultural contexts and personal expression. Whether you’re new to DJing or looking to expand your teaching toolkit, this session equips you with the knowledge and confidence to bring this vibrant art form into your classroom, inspiring the next generation of creators
Location Name
515C
Full Address
Palais des Congres - Montréal Convention Centre
1001, Place Jean-Paul-Riopelle
Montreal QC H2Z 1H2
Canada
Session Type
Workshop
Presenting Author(s)
David Knapp, Bryan Powell