How To Be A Vinyl DJ
with DJ Lady C
Starter Course: How to Be a Vinyl DJ
With DJ Lady C (Christina Gubala-Block)
Ever wanted to learn how to DJ with records but felt intimidated by the gear, the jargon, or the culture surrounding it?
This two-part beginner workshop is designed to demystify the DJ booth and give you the practical skills and confidence to start playing records in public, at home, or anywhere in between. Whether you're completely new to DJing or have spent years collecting records without knowing where to begin, this course will provide a solid foundation in the art and craft of vinyl DJing.
Over two sessions, students will learn how to properly set up turntables and mixers, understand signal flow, troubleshoot common audio issues, cue records, blend songs, and make smooth transitions. We'll also cover record care, equipment selection, sound system basics, and the often-overlooked practical skills that separate a prepared DJ from an overwhelmed one.
Most importantly, you'll get hands-on experience working with real equipment in a supportive environment that encourages experimentation, questions, and community.
What You'll Learn
How to set up and connect turntables, mixers, and sound systems
The difference between phono and line signals
Essential cables and troubleshooting techniques
Grounding and eliminating common audio problems
Mixer functions, cueing, and gain staging
Crossfading and introductory beat matching
Basic effects and recording workflows
Turntable setup, needles, slipmats, and tonearm adjustments
Record care, handling, and organization
DJ booth etiquette and crowd navigation
Building your collection and finding your sound
Equipment recommendations for getting started on a budget
How the Class Works
This workshop consists of two 90-minute classes, sold as a package.
Dates: June 11 & June 25
Time: 6:00 PM–7:30 PM
Bonus: 7:30 PM–8:00 PM open networking, practice time, and one-on-one questions
Students will have opportunities to practice plugging in equipment, cueing records, and making transitions on real DJ gear. Participants will also receive take-home reference materials and a small gift from the instructor.
Who Is This For?
Aspiring DJs looking for a welcoming place to start
Record collectors curious about sharing their music with others
Music lovers interested in understanding DJ culture and equipment
Anyone who wants to feel more confident behind the decks
No previous experience is required.
What to Bring
A notebook and pen
A few records you'd like to practice with (optional but encouraged)
Curiosity, patience, and a willingness to learn the fundamentals
Ages 14+
About the Instructor
Christina Gubala-Block (DJ Lady C) has been DJing throughout Los Angeles since 2011. She has hosted radio programs on UCLAradio, KCHUNG, and dublab, and her mixes can be found in the archives of NTS, Rinse FM, KXLU, and Deep House Tehran. She has held vinyl DJ residencies at venues including the Los Angeles Athletic Club, Townhouse Venice, Compound Long Beach, Grand Star Jazz Club, and Encanto, and has been a longtime fixture behind the decks at Highland Park's Gold Line. Passionate about education and accessibility, Christina believes DJ culture should be welcoming, inclusive, and available to anyone with a love of music and a desire to learn.
Registration: $50 (includes both classes)
Location: Healing Force of the Universe, Pasadena, CA