In a bid to modernize music education and engage students who might not traditionally join music programs, some Canadian schools are introducing turntables and MIDI controllers alongside traditional instruments.
This innovative approach is part of an effort to make music more inclusive and relevant to today’s youth. MusiCounts, a Canadian music education charity, has been a driving force behind this change. The organization’s president emphasized that the new tools are enticing students who “wouldn’t normally be participating” in music class.
“With turntables and MIDI controllers, we’re opening doors for kids to explore music in ways that resonate with them. It’s about meeting students where they are,” said the MusiCounts president.
The shift reflects the growing influence of electronic and digital music in popular culture. Students are learning DJ techniques, music production, and digital composition, skills that could lead to careers in the music industry or simply foster a lifelong love for music.
Teachers report that the new approach has been a hit, sparking creativity and enthusiasm among students. “It’s incredible to see kids who were previously uninterested in music suddenly light up when they get their hands on a controller,” one educator shared.
With this forward-thinking approach, Canadian schools are redefining music education, proving that innovation can strike a chord with the next generation.