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Digging In the Crates

Recording studio and creative workspace with musical instruments, audio production equipment, wall posters, and a person seated at a computer workstation producing music.

Created in 2021, Virginia Tech Digging In the Crates' (VTDITC) True School Studios is a creative hub for the Hip Hop arts. It is the only free and open-to-the-public learning lab built for and by Hip Hop artists in Virginia. More than just a learning space, the studio is a vibrant community dedicated to art for learning’s sake. During a session, True School Studios brims with energy. And if you step in when the studio is in all its glory, you can feel the sounds of the space in every fiber of your being.

With over 1500 events hosted since the program's founding in 2016, VTDITC is non-prohibitive, skill level-wise. Whether you're a seasoned musician or a beginner, the studio's primary mission is to provide access to music technology and music-making to the community, Virginia Tech and K-12 students, and to unleash the creative potential of anyone using it.

The vast array of diverse and intriguing equipment is one of the studio's greatest strengths. Instead of only making music "in the box" (on a computer), this studio is equipped with, but not limited to, turntables, mixers, and drum machines/samplers. If you want to learn how to DJ, the space offers a variety of traditional and newer technologies. A litany of drums, percussion instruments, microphones, Digital Audio Workstations, and even a theremin also await you if you are interested in learning more. 

Equipment is placed throughout the space, inviting curiosity to touch, feel, and play. Whether you're there to produce music, perfect your DJ craft, or just looking for the perfect beat, you can be assured of finding inspiration overflowing from this energetic space.

VTDITC’s True School Studios currently offers the following free and public weekly programs:

  • Turntable Tuesdays – Drop-In DJ Lessons – Tuesdays 12-1

  • Wood Hoop Wednesdays – Drop-In Drum Lessons – Wednesdays 4-5

  • Open Deck Thursdays – Open Turntables & DJ Controllers – Thursdays 2-5

  • Community Studio Hours – Drop-In Recording Sessions – Fridays 2-5 & Saturdays 12-3

For more info, please email VTDITC’s Program Director Craig Arthur at crarthur@vt.edu or check out their Instagram: instagram.com/VTDITC