How to DJ at Techno Raves
Techno raves require disc jockeys to continuously keep the energy alive with up-tempo dance tracks, blended smoothly together like one endless musical piece. If you think you're up to the task of bringing techno raves to life, while making some extra money at the same time, you will need to build your public profile and prove yourself before promoters will take you seriously. Even if you have what it takes, there are no shortcuts.
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Things You'll Need
- Turntable
- Monitor headphones
- Studio monitors
- Audio interface
- Audio cables
- Techno records
- Computer
- Printer
- Paper
- Transparent folders
- Digital audio software
- CD-Rs
Instructions
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Purchase professional equipment to get hired in professional environments. Invest in a turntable with both vinyl and CD playback, an audio interface with attached mixer, numerous techno records, studio monitors, monitor headphones and all of the corresponding cables to get started. Practice your technique every day using this equipment.
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Design a press kit for yourself. Introduce yourself in a few paragraphs, listing your equipment and any notable events that you have DJed in the past. Include your contact information and a photo of yourself spinning music at a party, club or other live event. Present the information neatly on white paper bound inside of a clean transparent folder, and post the information online as well on your own personal web page. Buying your own web domain will further present you as a professional.
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Record a demo CD. Compose your own tracks or create DJ mixes based on the works of others. The CD should be about fifteen to twenty minutes in length and should demonstrate the full scope of your abilities. If you cannot afford the use of a professional studio, connect your equipment to a USB audio interface and record into your computer, using a digital audio program like Pro Tools, Logic or Cubase. Make several CD-R copies of your demo to distribute as needed.
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Network with other DJs. Attend techno raves, night clubs and house parties. Join DJ forums online (see Resources) and reach out to esteemed DJs in your area. Since many noted DJs also have relationships with club owners, rave companies and other promoters, you can benefit greatly from traveling in the correct social circles.
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Accept smaller offers for work. DJ at parties, barbecues, weddings and any other events where you have the opportunity to show off your skills. This will help you to improve your press kit, earn money, gain public exposure, hone your craft and make new contacts. Do not be surprised if you find other DJs in attendance who want to discuss techniques and trade tips. These people can become valuable friends.
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Post your demo tracks on social networks like MySpace, Facebook, Reverb Nation, iLike and PureVolume. Using outlets like these, you can begin reaching out to new fans, which raises your public profile and helps to build the kind of public presence necessary to score valuable gigs.
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Contact the companies that host techno raves. After you have gained some experience, built up your resume and created a public buzz for yourself (however modest), you can take the next step and inquire directly about playing techno raves. Locate the contact information for companies hosting upcoming raves, send a copy of your press kit and demo, and continue to DJ while awaiting a positive response. Even if you get rejected at first, keep putting yourself out there, submitting your press kit and working hard. Before long, you will be spinning techno tracks beneath the strobe lights at some of the best raves in town.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit DJ at work image by Barlev from Fotolia.com
