Techno Improvisation with Beat DJ
This workshop has limited capacity, reserve your spot now to secure your place!
In this workshop you will learn the fundamentals of creating techno music live with Beat DJ, a livecoding program you control by typing simple commands. You will learn composition techniques essential for improvising techno including hypnotic loop construction, tension control, mixing, and on-the-fly decision making. New possibilities for improvisation, performance, collaboration, and experimentation will open up in your electronic music workflow allowing for further growth after the class.
This class welcomes beginners who are new to electronic music and performance, as well as experienced musicians looking to learn a new livecoding tool.
Workshop Logistics
Dates: Tuesday, June 9, 2026
Times: 6 – 9 PM
Location: In-person at Gray Area
2665 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110
Cost: $120
Scholarship: We also offer Diversity Scholarships.
Apply by May 24, 2026.
Experience Level:
Beginner to advanced. Bring a laptop/headphones and install the software bdj.app to save time in class.
Prerequisites:
No previous music or programming experience necessary.
Additional Information:
• No refunds or exchanges
• View our FAQ here
• Contact [email protected] with any questions
Workshop Outline
- Software and sample installation
- Overview of Beat DJ User Interface and workflow
- A quick history of other livecoding systems and comparison to Beat DJ
- Setting the tempo and the scale
- Loading and playing sounds
- Generating sounds with synthesis
- Editing the length, position, and melody of sounds
- Applying effects to tracks and samples
- Using rhythmic emphasis to create energetic loops in the style of Jeff Mills and Robert Hood
- Creating atmosphere using ambient synths and textures in the style of Speedy J
- Solo time improvising music on your own computer
- Wrap-up and share resources for further learning
Educational Goals
To inspire participants and offer an accessible entry point into performing live dance music, while building foundational skills in livecoding, techno composition, improvisation, and real-time musical decision-making.
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