On November 2nd and 3rd, 2024, Split will host the 11th DJ Masterclass, while Zagreb will experience its first on November 9th and 10th, 2024. This unique event is organized by DJ Matthew Bee in partnership with Cosmic Production, the DJ Booking Agency. Their longstanding supporters include Pioneer DJ equipment representatives and distributors from Helikop and Amadeus II – DJ Shop, with Pioneer Pro Audio joining them last year.
Ahead of Croatia’s only DJ Masterclass, we spoke with DJ Matthew Bee, the creator of this unique program, about what participants can expect from the upcoming sessions in Split and Zagreb. Known for his passion and dedication to mentoring new talent, Matthew shares insights on how DJ Masterclass began, what makes it special, and the valuable experiences it offers aspiring DJs
“The DJ Masterclass was born in Split five years ago,” Matthew begins, “from my desire to share my own journey and approach to DJing with others. I wanted to create a space where aspiring DJs could learn from my personal experiences and understand DJing from a professional perspective.”
DJ Masterclass has evolved into an intensive, hands-on program divided into two key parts. The first day is a private, closed session where Matthew personally mentors up to three students. This session covers the essential theory, the history of DJing, musical genres, song structures, and other foundational topics. “The goal of the first day,” Matthew explains, “is to equip students with a deep understanding of DJing fundamentals, so they’re ready to dive into practical exercises.”
The second day is where things get hands-on. Matthew guides students through intensive mixing exercises, from beatmatching and harmonic mixing to creating their own mixes, which are then published on Mixcloud. Each student has access to their own DJ setup, gaining experience with professional equipment. “We provide all participants with top-of-the-line DJ gear,” Matthew says, “allowing them to familiarize themselves with tools that range from basic controllers to high-end festival equipment like the Pioneer DJ TourOne.”
This practical session also includes public workshops and guest lectures from experts in electronic music, offering attendees a chance to learn from some of the industry’s most experienced figures. Past lecturers have included international DJs and producers like Lomax from Switzerland, DJ/Producer Ante Jakir, and Massimo Fregnani, an organizer of major electronic music festivals like Sensation White and Wish Outdoor. This year’s guest lineup includes DJ Jock and Social Media Expert Ivan Boban, as well as a session led by Matthew himself on DJ and audio products.
Is DJ Masterclass Offered in Other Cities?
This fall marks the debut of DJ Masterclass in Zagreb. “It’s exciting to see that the Masterclass is almost always fully booked before we even announce the dates,” Matthew says. “It tells me that what we’re doing resonates with people.” He currently runs the Masterclass twice a year, in spring and fall, with the next session scheduled for spring 2025. “We only have one spot left for the next Split session, which says a lot about the demand.”
What Do Participants Gain from DJ Masterclass?
All Masterclass participants receive gifts valued at approximately €200 from the sponsors, in addition to the skills and knowledge shared by Matthew and the guest lecturers. “Most importantly, they gain practical experience with professional DJ equipment,” Matthew explains. “The entire purpose of DJ Masterclass is to provide participants with the opportunity to become part of the DJ booking agency Cosmic Production, effectively giving them a ‘carte blanche’ to step into the industry and join the DJ scene.”
Ultimately, Matthew emphasizes that each participant’s success depends on their dedication and passion. “Whether they approach DJing as a hobby or aim to build a professional career, they’ll benefit not only from the skills gained but also from the connections they make here with industry professionals.”
A Final Invitation
Matthew extends a warm invitation to everyone interested in DJing to attend the free lectures. These sessions will be held on Sunday, November 3, 2024, in Split at Hotel Ambassador from 5 P.M. to 7 P.M., and in Zagreb on November 10, 2024, at Art’otel (Petrinjska 7) from 4 P.M. to 6 P.M.
“Come meet our fantastic guest lecturers and experience the vibrant atmosphere we create here at DJ Masterclass,” he says.
