Listen closely to the heartbeat of Detroit, and you just might hear the unmistakable pulse of the TR-909. For this year’s 909 Day celebration, we’re returning to the birthplace of techno with Kevin Saunderson as our guide.
One of the Belleville Three, Saunderson helped pioneer Detroit techno and was an early champion of the TR-909, using the machine to shape the sound that would take the genre worldwide.
Dig into this Ultimate Guide to explore the events and stories that honor the people and culture behind the TR-909
TR Workshop—909 to 1000, ft. Kevin Saunderson
When: Saturday, September 12, 3–6 p.m. EDT
Join techno icon Kevin Saunderson and Roland’s Dustin Good at Underground Music Academy in Detroit for a special workshop exploring the enduring influence of the TR-909. Then, look to its next generation in the new TR-1000. Learn about sequencing, sound design, and live performance workflows for each instrument. Fans worldwide can join the YouTube Livestream or sign up for an interactive session via Roland Cloud Academy. The workshop brings that history into the present, putting Saunderson behind the machine in the city where techno took shape.
For those in the Detroit area who want to attend the workshop in person, please RSVP below.
The Rhythm Creators
Premiering on 909 Day, the latest installment of the award-winning animated series The Rhythm Creators explores the story of the TR-909 through the eyes of Kevin Saunderson. Narrated by Saunderson and brought to life through the distinctive animation of Detroit artist Vaughn Taormina, the film traces the birth of Detroit techno, from the TR-909’s earliest dancefloor experiments to the studio hubs that would later become known as Techno Boulevard.
Careers in Music: Vaughn Taormina
Article Coming Soon
Detroit artist Vaughn Taormina brings a distinct perspective to The Rhythm Creators, blending animation, original music, sound design, and storytelling into a style that feels both handcrafted and deeply rooted in the city’s creative culture. In this interview, he reflects on his creative journey, the evolution of his multidisciplinary practice, and the process behind developing the distinctive look, feel, and sound of his award-winning animated series.
The XOX Project - Readipop
Based in Reading, UK, the XOX Project from Readipop gives musicians, producers, and students the opportunity to experience some of the most influential electronic music instruments ever made. Through a complete collection of original Roland instruments, BOSS effects, and studio technology, Readipop has created an accessible, hands-on environment where visitors can play, perform, program, and record with rare vintage equipment.
Alongside inspiring creativity and learning, the project helps build a more inclusive electronic music community through initiatives such as EMOM (Electronic Music Open Mic), which encourages experimentation, collaboration, and creative discovery for people of all ages and experience levels.
