Teach Together: The Real Musicianship in DJ-ing, how to encourage it and how to assess it
- Recommended for Practitioners
This session will provide insight into DJ-ing by explaining the opportunities for developing musicianship; it will explore the varied levels of demand placed on a DJ, and demonstrate how automation in DJ software can give an unfair advantage or be used creatively to connect into broader musical learning in the classroom.
Speakers
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Jim Reiss
DJ School UK
Jim Reiss
DJ School UK
Jim Reiss (founder of DJ School UK) is currently focussing on training teachers to apply DJ activities in music education.
He has seen excellent results nationwide where music teachers have engaged pupils in culturally relevant music education by using DJ activities. Jim recognises that DJing is not “culturally relevant” because it is currently contemporary. DJing is culturally relevant because every pupil can choose music that represents them, wether that be electronic, indie, folk, pop or even traditional western classical. DJing allows access to every piece of recorded music. This is why it is so successful as an engagement tool.
Jim consulted with AQA on the specification for DJ Skills in GCSE music, has contributed to multiple books on the topic of inclusion in music (Routledge, OUP), is a member of the West Yorkshire Music Network and works tirelessly to advocate for, while absolutely recognising the value of, the inclusion of DJing in music education.