How to Be a Techno DJ

Nothing sets or destroys the mood of a festive event - be it a wedding, a dance night or a house party - faster than the music selection. This is why disc jockeys, the top dogs of trendy tunes, are such an important part of any celebration. Ambitious DJs are increasingly tackling techno because the genre is filled with the heart-pumping dance beats that most successful parties demand. Minneapolis, Minn., DJ David Applegate shares some tips on how to kick off a career as a techno DJ.

Things You'll Need

• A variety of techno CDs and/or a laptop (laptops work better than desktop computers if you plan to be a traveling DJ) At least two CD players (with pitch controls) A table or flat surface on which to mix your music A mixer (optional if you are using a DJ software program) DJ software loaded onto your laptop (optional) An amplifier and speaker system for playing in public (optional because many clubs and venues provide this)

Instructions

1. Gather your arsenal of techno music. If you currently have little or no techno music and you are looking for a cost-effective way to build your collection, Applegate recommends downloading a freeware or shareware DJ software program. You can also purchase a subscription to a music download company and download techno MP3 or WAV files.

2. Mix your music. If you downloaded a DJ software program, you can use the virtual mixer that comes with most programs to replicate the mixing process. If not, Applegate recommends plugging a traditional mixer into your home stereo system and/or computer.

3. Experiment with mixing different songs. According to Applegate, the basic concept of mixing techno music is to matching the tempo of one song to the tempo of another. This is done by adjusting the speed of one track with a pitch controller to match the BPM (beats per minute) of the other track while using the crossfader on a mixer to fade between the two. Depending on the song, tracks can also be mixed with simple, subtle fades, a technique that's similar to that of a traditional radio DJ.

4. Save mixes that work well in a specific file so you can find them easily. Applegate recommends burning these mixes on CD-Rs as backup before playing a show in order to keep things flowing and avoid hiccups in your performance.

5. Call small clubs and offer to DJ for free one or two nights a week in order to gather a following and refine your craft, suggests Applegate. Once you have some experience, you can apply for DJ positions with larger, paying venues.

References

• David Applegate, DJ, Minneapolis, Minn.

Resources

• Detroit Institute of Techno