This month marked the beginning of the Sea DJ Academy, a new project founded by Anna Runtić and Antonio Ožić-Bašić, a DJ-electric violin duo famous by its artistic name ANNA x AOB. These two young artists have made a significant success during the past five years, with gigs at various places on the coast and abroad, including Zrće, D’or Beach Club, Boiler Club, Botaniq Castle, En Vogue Beach Club, Mango Club, La Banya and many others. Apart from their mentorship, this year’s students have the opportunity to learn from five other DJs, residents and producers who travelled the world with their music and are often seen at famous clubs and festivals: Madezh, Joe 2 Shine, DJ Inzo, Luka Jakir and Weekingz.
As the third week of the Academy approaches this Saturday, we had a chat with the founders about the idea and the inspiration for the first DJ Academy in Dalmatia:
“Sea DJ Academy was created primarily because of the increasing demand for DJs in the Adriatic, especially in Dalmatia as we have dozens of new beach bars and clubs every summer“, said Anna and Antonio.
The founders explained that many young people in Dalmatia who have aspirations of DJing don’t have the opportunity to master the skills, often waste 2 years at home on YouTube tutorials as the only similar education is held in Zagreb. “This is exactly why we wanted to provide Dalmatians with a place where they can learn the basics of DJing in a relaxed and professional environment, and to make the story more serious, we brought some of the most sought-after DJs from the Croatian scene who will share the experiences and advice from world tours and performances“, they explained, adding that they will share all the things they wish someone could have said to them when they were at the beginning of their career.
“Overall, the goal is to work on the general scene and future generations. We want to create an environment where colleagues will be appreciated, where it will not be difficult for them to recommend each other, consult each other, etc. We think that we can all progress more if we stick together and if we try to work on improving the scene at the state level”, the talented duo concluded.
First round of Sea DJ Academy classes is ongoing and full, but the organisers point out that there will be more opportunities next fall. Everyone over the age of 16 is welcome, regardless of whether they are complete beginners or already have some experience. Participants will also receive prizes such as a Pioneer controller, a set recording, a photoshoot, and 2 giveaways. In case you are dreaming of a DJ career, this is an opportunity worth a shot. More information about Sea DJ Academy is available via their website.
