Professor Philip Tan, a research scientist with the MIT Game Lab, is teaching a course on DJ history, technique, and technology at the MIT Media Lab. The class delves into disco, funk, rhythm and blues, and early hip-hop, exploring the evolution of DJ’ing and the technology behind it. Tan, a passionate DJ and game designer, has been teaching classic turntable and mixing techniques since 1998.
Students in the class learn foundational practices for live DJ mixing, research historical dance scenes, create mixtapes, and end the semester with a live DJ event. The course provides a unique opportunity for students to apply technical knowledge in a fun and creative way. Second-year student Madeline Leano praises the class for broadening her music taste and appreciation for music production, as well as connecting it to her engineering and computer science coursework.
Professor Tan walks students through the history of DJ tools, showcasing the shifts in DJ’ing alongside technological advancements. He also immerses the class in music and cultural history, discussing the foundations of disco and hip-hop in the 1970s. Students get hands-on experience behind the turntables, learning the art of blending beats and creating an engaging program for audiences to enjoy.
The class offers a unique blend of technical knowledge, music history, and new skills, with Professor Tan’s passion and expertise shining through. Students appreciate his interactive teaching style and depth of knowledge, making it a rewarding and engaging learning experience. Access to the popular course is granted via lottery, offering students a valuable opportunity to explore the world of DJ’ing at MIT.
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