
DJ Lessons by Carmen Lisa
“Want to Learn the Art of DJing?”
If you’re excited to dive into the world of DJing, I’m here to help!
Contact me for a free intake (video)call where we can chat about your goals and go over pricing.
Explore Your DJ Learning Path
Finding, selecting and purchasing music
• Music Sources: Where and how to find and buy tracks that match your style, with tips on platforms like Beatport, Bandcamp, and SoundCloud.
• Licensing and Legal Purchases: The importance of legally purchasing music and understanding licensing rights as a DJ.
Basic DJ Equipment Knowledge
• Introduction to Equipment: Overview of different types of DJ gear, such as CDJs, turntables, controllers, and mixers.
• Functionality of Knobs and Faders: Explanation of the main knobs and faders on a mixer, CDJ, or controller, and how to use them while DJing.
Using EQs and Sound Balancing
• Understanding EQs: Explanation of mids, highs, and lows, and how to use EQs to balance the sound between two tracks.
• Crossfading with EQs: Techniques for using EQs when crossfading between tracks.
Creating a Story in Your Mix
• Set Structure: How to build a flow in your mix by carefully selecting and placing tracks.
• Emotional Dynamics: How to build tension, create a climax, and vary the tempo to tell a story through music.
• Transitions and Harmony: Basics of harmonic mixing so your tracks blend well not only rhythmically but also melodically.
Organizing Your Music
• Laptop Organization: How to create folders and playlists to keep your music well-organized.
• Rekordbox Sorting: A step-by-step guide on importing music into Rekordbox, creating playlists, tags, and setting up hot cues.
Mixing Basics and Beatmatching
• Introduction to Mixing: What is mixing, and why is it important? How to transition tracks smoothly.
• Counting Beats and Structure: How to count beats and bars to understand the structure of a track.
• Beatmatching: Techniques to match the speed (BPM) of two tracks for seamless transitions.
Effects and Creative Techniques
• Applying Effects: How to use effects like reverb, delay, and filters to add dynamics to your set.
• Looping and Hot Cues: How to set and use loops and hot cues to create unique transitions.
Additional Tips for Beginner DJs
• Listening and Observing: The importance of listening to other DJs to learn from their style and techniques.
• Developing Your Own Style: Tips for finding your own sound and identity as a DJ.
• Preparing for Performances: Practical tips for preparing for your first gig, including setting up equipment and checking sound quality.