So, You Think You Can DJ?

AADL DJ Workshop Equipment Set-up

Are you one of those people who sees celebrity DJs like Paris Hilton or Will Ferrell and says to yourself, "I have great taste in music—I could do that"? Hey, I'm not here to tell you that you can or can't, but I am here to tell you that the Ann Arbor District Library (AADL) has your back if you want to give it a shot.

The AADL offers a fantastic Intro to DJing Workshop that’s perfect for anyone curious about mixing tracks, dropping beats, or learning what it takes to perform live. The best part? You don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars on gear or commit to expensive lessons. The workshop is completely free, and the AADL provides all the equipment you'll need.

Learn from a Pro

The workshop is taught by Ben, a professional DJ who’s frequently booked at popular Detroit venues like TV Lounge, where he brings crowds to life with his mixes. With years of experience under his belt, Ben is a natural teacher. Whether you're brand-new to DJing or already dabbling in the art, Ben’s approachable teaching style makes complex concepts like beatmatching and EQ blending easy to understand. He shares real-world tips from his gigs and encourages hands-on practice during the session.

What You'll Learn

During the workshop, you'll explore the basics of DJing, including:

• How to set up a track inside the software and use DJ equipment.

• Techniques for mixing tracks and creating smooth transitions.

• The art of beat matching .

• How to add effects and personalize your sets.

You’ll walk away with foundational skills—and maybe even the inspiration to dive deeper into the DJing world.

How to Sign Up

AADL’s Intro to DJing Workshop is a popular drop in style class held monthly. The next workshop will be held Friday February 21, 2025: 6:00pm to 7:30pm at the Downtown Library: 4Th Floor Meeting Room. For additional workshops in the following months check the library’s event calendar at aadl.org for upcoming sessions. The class is open to all skill levels and ages (though minors may need a parent with them to attend).

Who knows? This could be the first step toward your future as a international DJ —or at least a fun new hobby to share with friends. So, what are you waiting for? The turntables are calling, and AADL is ready to help you answer.

Go ahead and take that first step. It’s your time to shine Ann Arbor