Hardware
HARTT 2025
A USB microphone is a plug-and-play microphone that connects directly to your computer or mobile device via a USB port—no extra audio interface or mixer needed.
A DJ controller is a hardware device that lets you mix music using DJ software on a computer or mobile device. It replicates the feel of traditional turntables and mixers but in a digital, compact format—perfect for live performance or classroom learning.
Creating
-
Compose and arrange remixes, loops, and transitions
-
Structure DJ sets using tempo, key, and energy
-
Revise and refine performances
Performing
-
Select tracks with artistic intent
-
Use techniques like mixing, EQ, and effects
-
Present live sets that express mood and style
Responding
-
Analyze beat, form, and flow in DJ sets
-
Evaluate performances using musical criteria
Connecting
-
Reflect personal identity through music selection
-
Explore cultural roots of DJing and remixing
NATIONAL STANDARDS DJ CONTROLLERS
NATIONAL STANDARDS - USB MICROPHONES
Creating
-
Record original compositions, performances, or soundscapes
-
Use recording techniques to shape expressive intent
-
Edit and refine audio projects
Performing/Producing
-
Capture performances for sharing and presentation
-
Use microphones to enhance clarity, tone, and dynamics
Responding
-
Critically listen to and evaluate recordings
-
Analyze sound quality, performance accuracy, and clarity
Connecting
-
Use audio storytelling to express identity and ideas
-
Explore real-world applications (podcasts, media production, music careers)
NATIONAL STANDARDS - MIDI CONTROLLERS
Creating
-
Compose original music using virtual instruments and loops
-
Arrange beats, melodies, and harmonies
-
Revise and refine digital compositions
Performing
-
Use controllers to perform or record musical ideas
-
Apply expressive techniques like dynamics, articulation, and effects
Responding
-
Analyze musical structure and sound design in recordings
-
Evaluate compositions based on musical criteria
Connecting
-
Express personal ideas and identity through music creation
-
Explore how technology shapes music in different cultures and genres
A MIDI controller is a device that sends musical data (not sound) to a computer, instrument, or other hardware to control virtual instruments and software.
A grid controller is a button-based MIDI device that lets you trigger sounds, loops, samples, and effects by pressing a grid of pads—usually arranged in a square (like 4x4, 8x8, etc.).
NATIONAL STANDARDS GRID CONTROLLER
Creating
-
Compose beats and loops using pads and samples
-
Organize musical ideas in real time
-
Edit and refine digital performances
Performing/Producing
-
Use pads to perform live remixes or trigger sound clips
-
Develop control over timing, dynamics, and transitions
Responding
-
Listen and analyze rhythm, texture, and form
-
Evaluate live or recorded performances using music vocabulary
Connecting
-
Express identity through musical choices and remixes
-
Explore music technology’s role in current genres and cultures