Disc Jockeys (DJ) are persons who play musical recordings in parties or events. Roles of these professionals vary depending on the purpose or the setting of the music. They may work for radio stations where they play musical selections from playlists. Among genres played by DJs are Classic Rock, Heavy Metal, Adult Contemporary, Light Rock, Jazz, Country Western, Gangsta Rap, Hip-hop and among other music styles.
Disc Jockeys usually perform many of the following tasks such as given below:
- Providing Music at Events
- Developing Playlists
- Interacting with Public at Parties
- Playing Music at Radio Stations
- Mixing Music Tracks
Disc Jockey Eligibility
The minimum educational qualification for becoming a Disc Jockey is either a Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree in Sound and Music Technology.
Disc Jockey Required Skills
- Disc Jockeys should possess interpersonal abilities, being able to use soundboards and turntables and having knowledge about musical trends.
- They must be creative, having good pronunciation, being self-motivated and proactive; having good communication skills.
- They also required having high attention to details; being constantly informed about national news and having a good sense of humour.
- They also need to have a keen interest in and enthusiasm for music; a confident and outgoing personality; a good sense of timing and coordination and some understanding of technical equipment.
How to become Disc Jockey?
One has to follow given steps for becoming a Disc Jockey
Step 1
People who want to be Disc Jockeys or DJs do not need to meet a specific set of academic qualifications. Most employers just require a Diploma and sometimes a College degree. On-the-job experience is one of the most valuable points in this industry, so working at a college radio station is a great way to obtain a suitable experience. Jobs available in this area focus more on the experience rather than educational qualifications. However after passing 12th class with music or sound as one of the subjects the aspiring candidates can go for some of the following given courses.
Diploma/Bachelor’s Degree Courses
- Diploma in Music
- Diploma in Hindustani Classical Vocal Music
- B.A. (Hons) (Classical (Vocal) Music)
- B.A. (Hons) (Instrumental Music)
- B.A. (Music Vocal)
- B.A. (Musicology)
Step 2
After getting the required qualification, candidates can look for some kind of Job or go for a Master’s Degree in the related field to get deep Knowledge of the field.
Institutes offering Courses for Disc Jockey
- Spin Gurus DJ & Remixing Academy, New Delhi
- Splinters DJ School, Mumbai
- Azaredo Acoustics, Mumbai
Disc Jockey Job Description
- Disc jockeys job is to work for various music and entertainment channels of radio stations in their soundproof studios.
- They Ensure that their program is running in a smooth manner and the program is on air as per the specified time limits.
- Their work also includes holding various kinds of radio contests, taking song requests from the listeners, providing updates on the weather forecast and traffic jams in the areas.
- Their job also includes questioning callers and performing interviews.
- Disc jockeys may also have to appear at live events, such as concerts or radio station-sponsored parties.
- Supplying music and Sound system services at special events, such as weddings and corporate banquets is also one of the major duties of Disc Jocking working.
Disc Jockey Career Prospects
After passing this course, they have many career opportunities in the very field. Competition for all DJ work is strong and success depends on reputation and ability to network.
- Disc Jockeys normally are self-employed and work on a part-time or casual basis; although top DJs may work several sessions at different venues in one weekend.
- They have also job option in Radio; here they are employed by Radio Stations on fixed-term contracts.
- They have also DJ work in Bars and Clubs directly and through contacts and agents.
- There are also some Radio jobs in the local and national press and industry websites, but many are filled through word of mouth or by agents.
Disc Jockey Salary
A Disc Jockey can earn money between Rs.8000 to Rs.10000 per night. The perk may vary on the basis of the popularity and reputation of a particular DJ. The scope in this field is less for those who remain just a DJ. If a DJ can develop their skill and produce their own music, maybe cut an album, it could fetch them great money.
