This DJ course for beginners is an introduction to mixing music using professional DJ equipment. Over 8 weeks, students will learn how to beatmatch, transition between songs, and understand what makes a set feel smooth and engaging. With a focus on timing, song selection, and confidence behind the decks, students will build the foundations needed to start DJing their own sets.
Ideal For
Students who are new to DJing and curious about how DJs mix music. Ideal for those who love music, playlists, and want to learn how to turn that into a live experience.
Understand DJ equipment (decks, mixer, headphones)
Learn basic controls (cueing, play, tempo)
Explore tempo, BPM, and song structure
02
weeks 3-4
Beatmatching & Timing
Match tempos between two tracks
Use jog wheels and pitch control
Practice timing transitions smoothly
03
weeks 5-6
Transitions & Flow
Learn simple transitions (fades, EQ swaps)
Understand phrasing and when to mix
Build short, cohesive mixes
04
weeks 7-8
Build Your First Set
Plan and structure a short DJ set
Practice transitions and flow
Perform and share your mix
What You'll Walk Away With
01
A recorded beginner DJ mix
02
Confidence using DJ equipment
03
Strong understanding of beatmatching and transitions
04
The ability to build and perform a basic set
After this course: After completing this artist development program, students can continue their development through private or semi-private sessions, or advance into the next level of the program offered in Summer and Fall 2026.
Meet Your Instructor
Alisa Erlikh
DJ Instructor
Classically trained in the oboe and piano at the Royal Conservatory of Music, Alisa pursued an Audio Engineering Diploma from Trebas Institute after graduating University of Toronto. She has been DJing and producing music since the age of 13, and doing sound for Film and TV since 2016.
Developing workshops for various colleges and programs across the city, Alisa eventually settled into the instructional role at Toronto Film School, as well as offering audio for film education to young talent at the Muskoka Film Camp.
Alisa’s teaching style is very experiential – she invites the students to operate the equipment as she instructs them step by step, allowing the students to learn by listening and discovering the motions intuitively.