Drops, Beats, and Builds: Students Explore EDM
This month in the Music Lab, students dove into the world of Electronic Dance Music (EDM). Through listening and history stations, they explored how this genre sounds, how it works, and where it came from.
Their observations were thoughtful, specific, and sometimes surprising.
🎹 What Students Heard
Many students quickly picked up on EDM’s signature sound. Arianna R. noticed the use of electronic keyboard, while Beatrice V. also heard keyboards and described the music as having an “electric vibe.”
Others focused on rhythm and intensity. Isaac B. described songs that “start with a boom then the beat drops,” while Kristofer S. pointed out “a lot of beat drops” and “a lot of repetition.”
Students also noticed how EDM builds over time. Benji Gartin shared that the music often “progresses in intensity” and includes “frequent texture changes.” Ellie M. added that songs have different layers, with changes in the beat and structure from beginning to end.
Several students commented on vocals—or the lack of them. Sebastian V. observed that there are “not many words,” and when they do appear, they are “high pitched” and fast. Mila J. agreed, noting there is “usually not a lot of singing,” while Haley N. described the sound as “mostly instrumental” with voices edited to sound “techno.”
Connections to other music and media came up often. Haley N. said it sounded like “a theme in a video game,” and Beatrice V. compared it to Geometry Dash music. Ekam J. even described the style as giving “2016 nostalgia vibes.”
🎧 Artists, Style, and Sound
Students also made connections to artists and production. Sebastian V. mentioned that Marshmello is one of the most famous DJs, while Aiden B. shared that Alan Walker is a favorite artist.
Others noticed how EDM is created. Liam C. explained that EDM uses mixing software and often features fewer traditional instruments. He also noted that rappers sometimes use EDM as background music.
Olly C. observed that many songs come from the 2010s and 2020s, and that DJs play an important role in creating the music. This idea was echoed by Kristofer S., who pointed out that DJs have taken on bigger roles over time.
🕺 Where EDM Comes From
At the history station, students explored EDM’s roots and evolution.
Aleksander S. described how electronic music began in the early 20th century with early electronic instruments, then grew in the 1950s and 60s as composers experimented with sound. He noted that the genre really took off in the 70s, 80s, and 90s with disco, synth music, and rave culture, laying the groundwork for today’s music.
Several students highlighted disco as a key influence. Kristofer S. called disco “the father of dance music,” while Judy E. explained that EDM grew after disco declined in popularity.
Students also learned about geographic origins. Sebastian V. and Judy E. both mentioned Chicago as an important starting point for EDM. Judy E. added that different countries in Europe developed their own unique styles.
Ellie M. connected this history to musical features, noting that EDM “always stays with the beats” and often includes house music elements.
🎵 Student Takeaways
Across all responses, a few themes stood out:
- Strong beats and bass drive the music
- Build-ups and drops create excitement
- Electronic sounds and production replace traditional instruments
- Repetition and layering shape the overall structure
Even when opinions differed—like Shubham K. finding one song “boring”—students were able to describe what they heard and explain why.
💡 Why It Matters
EDM may feel modern, but students discovered it has deep roots and a global story. More importantly, they practiced listening closely, describing sound, and connecting music to history.
That’s what great EDM music lessons are all about.
And who knows? The next time they hear a beat drop, they might understand exactly what makes it work.
