Education and Training Requirements for a turntablist

Is becoming a turntablist right for me?

The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:

Overview
What do turntablists do?

Still unsure if becoming a turntablist is the right career path? to find out if this career is right for you. Perhaps you are well-suited to become a turntablist or another similar career!

Described by our users as being “shockingly accurate”, you might discover careers you haven’t thought of before.

How to become a Turntablist

Turntablists build their careers through steady practice and hands-on experience in music scenes.

  • Learn Basic Music Theory: Turntablists study rhythm, beat matching, and sound basics. This knowledge helps them grasp how tracks blend and create effects smoothly.
  • Get Entry-Level Gear: They start with affordable turntables, a mixer, and vinyl records. Quality tools let beginners practice real techniques without big costs up front.
  • Master Core Techniques: Turntablists practice scratching, beat juggling, and mixing daily. These skills form the foundation for live performances and crowd engagement.
  • Take Music Production Courses: Short classes or online workshops teach DJ software like Serato DJ. Formal lessons build technical know-how alongside creativity.
  • Build Listening Skills: They train ears to spot beats and mix tracks flawlessly. Strong hearing ensures seamless transitions that keep energy high at events.
  • Gain Practical Experience: Turntablists play at open mic nights or local parties for free at first. Real gigs sharpen timing and crowd-reading under pressure.
  • Freelance or Assist Pros: They shadow experienced DJs at clubs or shadow sessions. This teamwork opens doors to paid work and industry contacts.
  • Earn Professional Certifications: Turntablists complete recognized training programs in DJ arts. Credentials boost credibility for bookings and competitions.

Certifications
Several US-based certifications help turntablists sharpen skills and prove their expertise to event planners and fans.

  • Musicians Institute – Certificate in DJ Performance & Production, Los Angeles, CA: A two quarter (30 unit) accredited certificate focused on DJ performance, beat matching, turntablism, DAWs (Digital Audio Workstations, and digital DJ tools (Traktor, Serato).
  • Scratch DJ Academy Certification Program: This program from Scratch DJ Academy in New York offers a structured multi-level course that covers mixing, scratching, music theory, and performance skills, and awards a certificate upon completion.
  • Certified Pro DJ – The DJ Coach: This certification program consists of a four month online mentorship with DJ Hapa and team, covering performance, branding, and business, ending with ‘Pro DJ Certification’ and an alumni network.
  • DJ & Music Production Academy: The Wired Sound Academy, a certified DJ and music production school located in Fort Lauderdale, FL, offers two programs, each of which can be completed in four to eight weeks. DJ courses include The Complete DJ Course, Essential DJ Course, and Intro DJ Class. Production courses include The Complete Music Production Course and Essential Music Production Course.
  • Ableton Certified Training: These are highly regarded technical credentials in electronic music and live performance with Ableton Live.