RiP! A Remix Manifesto

Educational purpose:

Introduce the concept of music sampling and computer mash-ups to create new songs. Ask students if they can provide samples songs for the class to hear. Are students aware that there are legalities involved in the creation of this style of music? Hold a class debate on the issue of copyright ownership and piracy. Introduce the concept of public domain and its limitations. How much do students know about Open Source Cinema and music sharing sites such as Napster, in terms of copyright infringement? Debate or discuss Lawrence Lessig’s statement that mashing is "a re-creation of democracy and culture." Do students believe that Walt Disney remixed fairy tales when he created his classic stories and films? Discuss the term culture jamming as it applies to remixers and their opponents. Will free use of media products on the Internet soon be outlawed in Canada as it is in the United States? Should Canada accept Brazil's policy on the sharing of intellectual property? How do these concepts apply to the concept of global trading? Are any students excited about this remixing process as a future career choice? Do they believe in the importance of collaboration to create this new genre of music and films? This film contains coarse language.

Maureen Rossong, Halifax Regional Municipality, NS