Chicago Welcomes Scratch DJ Academy Into The Mix

By Katie Karpowicz in Arts & Entertainment on Apr 12, 2013 3:00PM

Now that Chicago is home to dozens and dozens of DJ-oriented outlets — festivals, clubs, bars — it's about time somebody started teaching the flocks of aspiring mix masters that spring from Chicago's streets to do things the right way.

On April 1, Scratch DJ Academy (820 N. Orleans) opened its doors for its inaugural semester of group lessons. The Academy — conceived by the late Jam Master Jay in 2002 — has opened several locations across the country as the popularity of DJing continues to rise. Campuses are located in New York, Los Angeles, Miami and now Chicago.

Already an obvious choice for a new Academy location, Scratch DJ instructor DJ Big Once tells Chicagoist that Chicago's "deep musical history" and status as the birthplace of house music also led to the decision.

Big Once — along with fellow instructors DJ Toadstyle, DJ Fabian and DJ Zebo — provide students with a supplemental part-time program meeting once a week for two hours. The DJ Certification Program is made up of six 6-week courses. Group and private lessons cover topics such as the history of DJing, technique and scratching. In an effort to keep class sizes small, Big Once, claims the Academy has already had to incorporate more classes than initially expected to accommodate the hearty response to the school's opening.

In an email to Chicagoist, student Ryan Boggs — a former DJ novice — explains how his outlook on the profession has already changed:

"I have learned much more in three and a half private lessons with DJ Big Once than I could have imagined. He's taught me the right way, starting with the basics. The way DJs like Jam Master Jay, Jazzy Jeff and many others learned in the old days on vinyl."

The prevailing goal at Scratch DJ Academy seems to be a dedication to old school tactics and the proper incorporation of new technologies. Big Once comments on the problems that have arisen within the profession in recent years:

"DJing software has lowered the barrier to entry, anyone can get it. However, many aspiring DJs start out mixing and matching music utilizing software don't fully understand the intricacies of DJing a live set. At Scratch we teach our students the art form in its entirety starting with the fundamentals, techniques, history, technology and psychology. Our students learn what it takes to be a successful DJ, perform live sets and nail it every time."

Whether you're wanting to learn how to drop the bass or just the record needle, Scratch DJ Academy aims to become a staple in Chicago's DJ scene. Visit the Academy's website to learn more about class enrollment.