Introduction to DJ Culture

Catalog description

Drawing on histories and subcultures of electronic dance music, alongside theories of sampling, mixing, remixing and postproduction, this practice-based course offers a basic introduction to DJ and production technologies as well as an exploration of world making tactics via the manipulation of sound and space. How do DJs manipulate sound to stitch together a unique sonic narrative? How is DJing itself a kind of theorizing through sound? Topics include the history of the DJ from the early 20th century to the rise of DJ-focused dance musics, from hip-hop to techno. Students will have hands-on experience with CDJs and throughout the semester, students will work on a series of short sound exercises and a final or collaborative project. There are no prerequisites for this class.