How would you describe your teaching style? What makes the cross-approach unique or effective?
At Crossfader, we teach the DJ as the construction with Lego – it is not only individual bricks (or buttons and functionality), but also to understand how they take place to build something complete and dynamic.
We show students how each tool – such as beatmat, curls, effects and mixing techniques – acts as a building block. These fundamental elements may seem separated at the beginning, but when combined in different ways, they create entirely new possibilities in a set of DJs.
Then, we guide them through different combinations, demonstrating how the same fundamental techniques can be used in various ways to achieve different creative results. Just like in Lego, where the same set of bricks can be assembled in countless conceptions, the DJ consists in using basic techniques for making unique and expressive mixtures.
Traktor is a powerful platform, but it can be complex at first. We simplify it by breaking down things in real world workflow, helping students connect features in a way that makes sense.
How did the experience of your team as DJS influence your approach to teaching traktor?
Our team is not only made up of instructors – we are first DJs. We were real resident DJs, working six nights a week and playing a wide range of genres and styles. This constant adaptation has taught us invaluable knowledge during the job that we now transmit to our students. We played in clubs, on radio, in festivals, and we have known the real challenges encountered by DJ. This means that we do not only teach “manual” techniques – we teach what actually works in live settings.
For Traktor, it’s crucial. This is one of the most innovative DJ platforms, and knowing how to use its effective features can unlock incredible creative potential. We have been in the DJ industry for over 15 years and have grown up alongside technology. We started the DJ before the controllers and the functionalities of powerful software were the norm, perfecting our skills on traditional configurations.
Throughout the industry, we have adopted new innovations such as HID mode and Traktor controllers, integrating them into our sets live in the past decade. This practical experience allows us to teach students how to mix new tools in their DJ workflow transparent.
What advice would you give to the aspiring DJs that start, especially those who wish to use Traktor?
- Master the fundamentals before chasing complexity. Traktor has some of the most powerful features of all DJ software, but it’s easy to get lost. First of all, focus on learning Beatmatching,, sentenceAnd Track selection. The effects, the separation of the stems and the loop are tools to improve your mixtures, but the foundation is the key.
- Listen to music. Focus on understanding what is a song – the elements, sounds, sections and sentences throughout. Notice the energy changes, the instruments introduced and how the tracks are structured. Developing this deep musical consciousness will facilitate the shape of your workflow and use traktor features to improve your mixture rather than overcoming it.
- Practical in real world scenarios. Do not just mix in isolation. Record your sets, play for friends and experience with different genres. The best way to grow as DJ is to get out of your comfort zone and put yourself in situations where you have to React, adapt and perform.
- Be aware of what makes Traktor single. Traktor stands out for its remix decks, its deep customization and its powerful effects. Although it is important not to focus on these advanced features too early, being aware of their potential will help shape your trip. Understanding how TRAKTOR allows creative manipulation beyond the traditional DJ – whether by live remixing, effect superposition or personalized mappings – will give you a solid base to become its complete capacities over time.
- Finally, Take advantage of the process. The DJ should be fun, expressive and creative. With Traktor, you have a power of powerful tools – so dive, explore and do it yours.
Start leveling your DJ skills
We would like to thank the crossfader team for sharing the way they tackle the DJ teaching with Traktor and the skills on which they recommend that DJs work to improve their skills. Whatever your skill level, there is no better time to learn something new.
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