In this research project, we examine how music education can be an interesting starting point for Science & Technology. We do that by getting pupils to design and build a music instrument themselves with technologies from the 21st century. Children subsequently devise, play and perform their own music with these self-built instruments.  In that way, children learn how to design, and it encourages them to reflect on design aspects, design, functionality and aesthetics.

With the SoundLAB, the Muziekgebouw concert venue has a collection of over 100 experimental, technological music instruments, many of which are specially designed by professionals for the SoundLAB. The makers of these instruments used various types of technologies, such as electric guitar pickups, analogue and digital synthesis, whether or not in combination with mini-computers and micro-controllers, such as Raspberry Pi, Teensy and Bare Conductive Touch Boards. These technologies are not only accessible to professionals, but also to children. Building a musical instrument yourself has therefore become an activity that can also take place at primary schools. This research is about how we can be implement this, not only with schools that visit the SoundLAB, but also with schools which don’t do that.

In that way, we want to expand the subject of music with Science & Technology education, while also expanding the field of Science & Technology with music education.

- Diepenbroek, A. & Hogenes, M. (2021). Podcast Ontwerpend leren in muziekonderwijs. Amsterdam. NL: Lectoraat Kunsteducatie.
- Hogenes, M., Diepenbroek, A., Bremmer, M., & Hogerheide, M. (2021). Ontwerpend leren in muziekonderwijs. Kunstzone, 20(1), 8-11.
- Hogenes, M., Diepenbroek, A., Bremmer, M., & Hogerheide, M. (2021). Designing new, technology basedmusical instruments in primary education. Journal of the European Teacher Education Network, 1-18.