Top 7 Free Online DJ Courses to Boost Your Mixing Skills in 2023

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 6 June 2023 11 min read

If you're interested in sharpening your mixing skills, look no further! This blog will guide you through the best free online DJ courses for developing your mixing skills. With these resources, you'll be well on your way to becoming a skilled DJ in no time. So, let's dive in and explore the top picks for free online DJ courses!

1. Best Free Online DJ Courses: Top Picks

Here are three highly recommended courses that can help you kick-start your DJ journey or take your existing skills to the next level. Each course focuses on different aspects of DJing, ensuring a well-rounded learning experience.

Course 1: Learn the Basics

This beginner-friendly course is perfect for those who are new to DJing or need a refresher on the fundamentals. You'll gain a solid foundation in:

Beatmatching—The art of aligning the beats of two tracks to create a seamless mix.
EQing—Using equalizers to balance the frequencies and improve the overall sound quality.
Phrasing—Understanding the structure of tracks and how to mix them effectively.

By the end of this course, you should have a firm grasp of the core skills required to start your DJ journey.

Course 2: Mastering Transitions

Transitions can make or break a DJ set. In this course, you'll learn advanced techniques to create smooth, engaging transitions between tracks, including:

Filter Sweeps—Using filters to blend tracks together seamlessly.
Looping—Creating loops to extend sections of a track or build tension.
Effects—Incorporating delay, reverb, and other effects to enhance your transitions.

Mastering these techniques will help you create dynamic, captivating mixes that keep your audience engaged.

Course 3: Advanced Mixing Techniques

For those ready to take their mixing skills to new heights, this course offers advanced techniques that can set you apart from the competition. You'll explore:

Harmonic Mixing—Mixing tracks with complementary keys to create a cohesive musical journey.
Layering—Combining elements from multiple tracks to create unique, custom blends.
Scratching—Adding flair to your mixes with classic turntablism techniques.

By mastering these advanced skills, you'll be well-prepared to stand out in the competitive DJ scene and impress your listeners with your creative mixing abilities.

2. Benefits of Online DJ Courses for Developing Your Mixing Skills

Now that you're familiar with some of the best free online DJ courses for developing your mixing skills, let's take a look at the benefits of enrolling in these courses. By understanding the advantages, you'll be able to make an informed decision about whether online DJ courses are right for you.

Flexibility and Convenience

One of the most significant benefits of online DJ courses is the flexibility they offer. You can learn at your own pace, on your own schedule, and in the comfort of your own home. This means you won't have to worry about squeezing in classes between work, school, or other commitments. Plus, if you're a night owl or an early bird, you can take advantage of the quiet hours to focus on your learning.

Furthermore, online courses often have self-paced modules or on-demand video lessons, allowing you to revisit the material as needed. This is especially helpful if you encounter a challenging concept or technique and need extra practice to master it. In short, online DJ courses provide a convenient and flexible way to develop your mixing skills.

Cost-Effectiveness

Another major benefit of online DJ courses is their cost-effectiveness. Many of the best free online DJ courses offer high-quality instruction and resources without breaking the bank. This means you can learn valuable DJing techniques and tips without spending a fortune on expensive classes or workshops.

By choosing a free online DJ course for developing your mixing skills, you can invest in your DJ setup and other essential equipment, which will ultimately contribute to your success as a DJ. So, if you're on a budget or just starting out, online DJ courses are a cost-effective way to acquire the skills you need.

Personalized Learning Experience

Every DJ has their own unique learning style and preferences, which is why a personalized learning experience can be so valuable. Online DJ courses allow you to focus on the techniques and concepts that are most relevant to your goals and interests.

For example, if you're passionate about a specific genre, you can seek out courses that cater to that style. Or, if you want to master a particular mixing technique, you can find resources that focus on that skill. With online DJ courses, you have the freedom to customize your learning journey, ensuring that you get the most out of your time and effort.

In conclusion, the benefits of online DJ courses make them a fantastic option for anyone looking to develop their mixing skills. With their flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and personalized learning experiences, the best free online DJ courses can help you become a skilled DJ without the constraints of traditional learning methods. So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the world of online DJ courses and start honing your mixing skills today!

3. Choosing the Right Course for Your Skill Level

Now that you're aware of the benefits of online DJ courses and have a list of the best free online DJ courses for developing your mixing skills, it's time to choose the right course for your skill level. Remember, finding the right course can make a world of difference in your learning journey. So, let's explore the various skill levels and how to select the perfect course for you.

Beginner Courses

If you're new to the world of DJing or have limited experience with mixing, beginner courses are the way to go. These courses will typically cover basic concepts and techniques, providing a solid foundation for your DJing journey. When looking for the best free online DJ course for developing your mixing skills, pay attention to the following aspects:

Introduction to DJ equipment: Familiarize yourself with essential DJ gear, such as controllers, headphones, and speakers.
Fundamental mixing techniques: Learn the basics of beatmatching, blending, and transitioning between tracks.
Music library organization: Discover how to effectively manage your music collection and create playlists for seamless mixing.

By starting with a beginner course, you'll gain a strong foundation in DJing, which will help you progress more confidently as you advance in your learning journey.

Intermediate Courses

Once you've mastered the basics, it's time to level up your skills with intermediate courses. These courses will build on your existing knowledge and introduce more advanced techniques. Keep an eye out for courses that cover the following topics:

Advanced transitions: Dive deeper into creative transitions, such as using effects, loops, and advanced EQ techniques.
Improving your mix: Learn how to add your personal touch to mixes by incorporating various DJing styles and techniques.
Performance and crowd engagement: Enhance your skills in reading the crowd and creating memorable DJ sets that keep the dance floor packed.

With intermediate courses, you'll start to develop your unique DJing style and gain confidence in your mixing abilities.

Advanced Courses

For those who have a solid grasp of intermediate techniques and want to push their skills even further, advanced courses are the next step. These courses will help you become a true expert in your craft. Look for advanced courses that cover:

Advanced DJing techniques: Master complex mixing techniques, such as harmonic mixing, scratching, and live remixing.
Music production and remixing: Learn how to create your own tracks and remixes to take your DJ sets to the next level.
Marketing and branding: Develop a strong personal brand and learn how to market yourself effectively to land gigs and build a loyal fan base.

By completing advanced courses, you'll be well on your way to becoming a highly skilled DJ who stands out from the crowd.

So, where do you see yourself on this learning journey? Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up your skills, the best free online DJ course for developing your mixing skills is just a few clicks away. Choose the right course for your skill level, and watch your DJing abilities soar to new heights!

4. Essential Equipment for Your Home DJ Setup

Now that you've chosen the best free online DJ course for developing your mixing skills, it's time to gear up your home DJ setup. With the right equipment, you'll be able to practice and improve your skills even more effectively. Let's explore the essential components of a home DJ setup and how each one contributes to your overall mixing experience.

DJ Controller

The DJ controller is the heart of your setup, acting as the control center for your mixes. It allows you to manipulate audio tracks using physical controls such as knobs, faders, and buttons. When selecting a DJ controller, consider the following factors:

Compatibility: Make sure the controller works with your chosen DJ software and computer operating system (Windows or macOS).
Features: Look for features that suit your mixing style, such as multiple channels, built-in effects, and performance pads.
Size and portability: Choose a controller that fits your available space and can be easily transported if you plan to DJ at different locations.

Investing in a quality DJ controller is a wise decision, as it directly impacts your mixing capabilities and overall performance.

Headphones

Quality headphones are crucial for any DJ, as they allow you to monitor your mix and make precise adjustments. When choosing headphones for your DJ setup, keep the following in mind:

Comfort: Look for headphones with comfortable padding and an adjustable headband, as you'll be wearing them for extended periods.
Sound quality: High-quality sound is essential, so opt for headphones with good frequency response and sound isolation.
Durability: DJing can be tough on your gear, so choose headphones that are built to withstand heavy use and have replaceable parts, such as ear pads and cables.

Remember, a great pair of headphones can make all the difference in your ability to create seamless mixes and fine-tune your sound.

Speakers

Having a quality speaker system is essential for practicing your DJ skills and accurately hearing what your audience will experience. When selecting speakers for your home DJ setup, consider these factors:

Size and power: Choose speakers that provide enough power for your practice space without overwhelming your neighbors (or your ears).
Sound quality: Opt for speakers with a wide frequency range and clear audio reproduction to ensure you can hear all the details of your mix.
Connection options: Look for speakers that can easily connect to your DJ controller, whether through RCA, XLR, or Bluetooth.

With the right speaker system, you'll be able to hear your mixes exactly as they'll sound in a live setting—helping you fine-tune your skills even more effectively.

Once you've gathered the essential equipment for your home DJ setup, you'll be well-prepared to make the most of the best free online DJ course for developing your mixing skills. As you practice and learn, you'll find that having reliable, high-quality gear can make all the difference in your growth as a DJ. So, what are you waiting for? It's time to start mixing!

5. Online DJ Communities for Networking and Support

Now that you've got your home DJ setup ready and are rocking the best free online DJ course for developing your mixing skills, let's dive into the world of online DJ communities. These communities can provide valuable networking opportunities, support, and inspiration for your DJ journey. Let's explore some popular types of online DJ communities and how they can help you grow and thrive as a DJ.

Forums and Discussion Boards

Forums and discussion boards are excellent places to connect with fellow DJs and share tips, tricks, and experiences. You can ask questions, share your mixes, or even collaborate on projects with other DJs from around the world. Some popular DJ forums include:

DJ TechTools — a forum focused on DJ technology, equipment, and software.
Reddit's r/DJs — a subreddit where DJs can discuss various aspects of DJing, from gear to techniques.

By participating in these forums, you'll not only build your knowledge base but also form connections with other DJs who share your passion for mixing.

Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter are also great places to find and join DJ communities. These groups can help you stay updated on the latest trends, news, and releases in the DJ world. You can also share your mixes and get valuable feedback from other DJs. Some popular social media DJ groups include:

Global DJ Network (Facebook) — a large community of DJs from around the world, where you can share experiences, ask questions, and post your mixes.
Bedroom DJs (Facebook) — a supportive group for DJs who are just starting out or looking to improve their skills.

Don't hesitate to join these groups and start engaging with other DJs, as they can be an invaluable source of support and motivation for your DJ journey.

Online DJ Competitions

What better way to test your skills and gain exposure than by participating in online DJ competitions? These contests can help you showcase your talent, receive feedback, and even win prizes. Some popular online DJ competitions include:

Red Bull 3Style — a prestigious global DJ competition that encourages creativity and originality in mixing.
DMC World DJ Championships — a long-running competition that focuses on turntablism and DJ skills.

Remember, participating in these competitions not only pushes you to improve your DJ skills but also helps you connect with other talented DJs and industry professionals.

Online DJ communities can offer tremendous support and inspiration as you continue to improve your mixing skills through the best free online DJ course for developing your mixing skills. By engaging with these communities, you'll have access to a wealth of knowledge, resources, and connections that can help you grow and succeed in the world of DJing. So, go ahead and start connecting with other DJs—it's time to make your mark!

6. Additional Resources for Enhancing Your DJ Skills

So you've been taking the best free online DJ course for developing your mixing skills, engaging with online communities, and practicing with your home DJ setup. Great job! But why stop there? There are countless resources available to help you continue your growth as a DJ. In this section, we'll explore some additional resources that can further enhance your DJ skills and knowledge. Let's dive in!

DJ Podcasts

Podcasts are an excellent way to stay updated on the latest DJ news, techniques, and trends. They provide valuable insights and interviews with industry professionals, making them an indispensable resource for those looking to enhance their DJ skills. Some DJ podcasts worth checking out include:

The Passionate DJ Podcast — A podcast that covers a wide range of topics related to DJing, from gear reviews to interviews with successful DJs.
DJ City Podcast — This podcast features interviews, discussions, and exclusive mixes from some of the world's top DJs.

Listening to these podcasts can help you stay informed and inspired as you continue to hone your skills through the best free online DJ course for developing your mixing skills.

Books on DJing

Books can provide in-depth knowledge and insights into DJing, making them an excellent addition to your learning toolkit. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced DJ, there's always something new to discover in the world of DJ literature. Some must-read books on DJing include:

How to DJ Right: The Art and Science of Playing Records by Frank Broughton and Bill Brewster — This book covers the fundamentals of DJing and offers tips for developing your own unique style.
The DJ Sales and Marketing Handbook by Stacy Zemon — An essential read for anyone looking to turn their DJ hobby into a profitable business.

By adding these books to your collection, you'll gain valuable insights and information that can help you grow as a DJ, even beyond the best free online DJ course for developing your mixing skills.

YouTube Channels

YouTube is a treasure trove of DJ tutorials, gear reviews, and performance videos. It's a fantastic resource for anyone looking to improve their mixing skills and stay up-to-date with the latest trends and techniques in DJing. Some popular YouTube channels to subscribe to include:

Digital DJ Tips — A channel dedicated to providing tutorials, gear reviews, and tips for digital DJs.
DJ TLM TV — A channel featuring DJ tutorials, tips, and tricks, as well as interviews with industry professionals.

By following these channels, you can enjoy a wealth of information and inspiration right at your fingertips, complementing your progress in the best free online DJ course for developing your mixing skills.

Remember, the journey of becoming a great DJ doesn't end with completing a course or mastering a technique. It's a continuous process of learning, experimenting, and growing. By exploring these additional resources, you'll be well on your way to becoming the best DJ you can be. So, what are you waiting for? Dive into these resources and keep pushing your DJ skills to new heights!

If you're eager to further enhance your DJ mixing skills, don't miss the workshop 'Ableton Live Quick Tips To Make Your Music Better' by Tom Glendinning. This workshop offers valuable tips and tricks to help you get the most out of Ableton Live and take your music production to new heights.