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The DJ as Music Producer: Ableton Live & DJ Technology

MUSC X 424.8

Increasingly, DJing and music production go hand in hand as different but complementary skillsets. DJs who also produce their own music, remixes, or mashups increase their chances to get bookings.

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What you can learn.

How to set up and operate a DJ system
Curate a diverse music library, including electronic, funk, soul, k-pop, hip-hop, pop, rock
Create playlists for various atmospheres, moods, locations and venues
Learn to DJ and record mixes
Create a remix or track

About this course:

This course is ideal for beginners who want to get started as a DJ, or for intermediate students seeking to augment their skills. Increasingly, DJing and music production go hand in hand as different but complementary skillsets. DJs who also produce their own music, remixes or mashups increase their chances to get bookings. Instruction covers both the essential DJ software and hardware alongside Ableton Live. Through a hands-on approach, including in-class practice, demonstration, lectures, and take home assignments, you learn the art and techniques of DJing both on the creative and technical sides. Topics include beat matching, mixing, scratching, transitions, BPM changes, how to develop a signature sound, and how to perform for a variety of audiences. You also learn the basics of music production using Ableton Live including warping, using samples, drum and synth programming, recording audio, mixing/EQing and song composition. You create your own mashup, remix, original track and record a DJ mix by the end of the course.