DJAY PLAY is a modular toy and a music instrument. With it I wanted to create an alternate doorway for children to music making. I wanted to show that music isn't only made by blowing the flute or hitting the piano keys while reading notes. I wanted to inspire them to start with DJing, by teaching the basics of it. And of course I wanted the kids to have a lot of fun mixing and experimenting with sound and music!
The music instrument is aiming for children between 7-12, and is designed as a modular toy. Every module contains one DJ set function - the Pitch module contains the pitch function, with the Scratch module you get to scratch music, and so forth. It is intended to be a collectible piece; You can start with one single module (which will work as a stand-alone instrument), and then collect your personal DJ set at your own pace. (Or you can buy a basic pack of five modules and a mixer right away!) With the toy comes a software with a music library and recording function, so that you can load your modules with different sound loops, and record your mixes.
Having the toy modular helps kids learn which the DJ functions are and what they do, since they are clearly divided in separate cubes with identities of their own. And it also makes it possible to release more and more modules, for the kids to collect.
This toy was made as my first project at HDK, where I am studying a master in Child Culture Design. With it I'm turning over a new leaf, trying out product design and making toys! DJAY PLAY It is not in production, but has been prototyped. Could be looking for a producer :-)
