The Lecture Theatre was alive with dance music this week, as the Lower School boys were treated to a special workshop with DJ Matman from Future DJs, a team of talented DJs whose mission is to breathe new life into music education.
Shiplake College is one of a growing number of schools which offers DJ lessons as part of its peripatetic repertoire, encouraging pupils to find their love of producing music through the songs they listen to everyday.
A DJ tutor visits the school every week, and pupils can have lessons on their own or in pairs.
During the workshop, DJ Matman (who has performed sets at Glastonbury and Wireless Festivals) worked his magic on the decks, while fellow DJ Reuben Wachs, talked through the various effects he was using. There was lots of audience participation with the Year 7s performing the ‘Crabby’ dance in their seats, and three lucky boys were able to have a go on the decks.
Reuben said: “There’s a real disconnect between children loving music but not being involved in making it. DJing allows pupils to start making music straight away and they can even take their GCSE Music performance using the decks.
“It helps to boost confidence, helps with focus and problem solving and above all it is lots of fun.”
Mr Paul Jones, Deputy Head, Academic, said: “Having DJing as an option at Shiplake reflects our commitment to providing relevant musical opportunities for pupils, and is a way of celebrating music in all its forms.
“We look forward to seeing our DJ students perform in our regular lunchtime concerts and headlining at our summer festival on Thursday 18 June.”
