13/06/2026
I'd like to say a huge congratulations to Karen, who has recently completed our “Introduction to Digital DJing” course.
Karen began her journey with Salisbury DJ Academy just over four months ago after purchasing a Pioneer DDJ-FLX4 controller and signing up for the course.
On Thursday evening, she performed her very first public DJ set at All Hands on Decks at The Anchor & Hope in Salisbury, delivering an outstanding 90’s Old Skool Hardcore set that had the crowd buzzing from start to finish.
Karen is a perfect example of what can be achieved with dedication, consistency, and a genuine passion for music. Coming into the course with no previous DJ experience, she has worked incredibly hard to develop her skills and confidence behind the decks.
In all my time teaching, I don't think I've seen anyone progress quite as quickly. Around the ten-week mark, something just seemed to click, and from that point on there was no looking back! Karen regularly sent me several mixes each week for feedback and arrived at lessons with new playlists and ideas to try out. This commitment not only accelerated her technical development but also helped her build an impressive breadth of musical knowledge.
I typically recommend that new DJs start with a Pioneer DDJ-FLX4 controller, as it provides the same layout and core features found on professional club equipment at a much more affordable price point. For most DJs, it's a controller that will comfortably support their development for a year or two before they outgrow it.
Karen, however, has progressed so rapidly that she has already outgrown her DDJ-FLX4 - something I never expected to see in such a short space of time. While my usual recommendation would be to move up to a standalone controller such as the XDJ-RX3, I knew Karen's ambition and rate of progression would soon surpass that too. Instead, I recommended she invest in the club-standard XDJ-AZ, which will allow her to continue developing her skills without limitation.
Congratulations once again, Karen. Your hard work, enthusiasm, and commitment have been incredible to watch, and I'm very proud of what you’ve managed to achieve.
