Abstract
Digital and virtual technologies can serve as pathways to participatory learning in the music classroom. Participatory learning is characterized by relatively low barriers to artistic engagement and contribution, peer mentoring, multiple opportunities for sharing, and opportunities for meaningful social connection. This chapter presents a project-based lesson plan in which students mix audio samples and riffs on a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) to create a mashup composition. In particular, this chapter focuses on how students might use these mixes to respond to a particular social theme or idea. This chapter also discusses how students can create compositions that serve as social commentary and catalysts for conversation, exploring political and philosophical problems through musical experiences.