Today we’d like to introduce you to Adam Rich.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Scratch DJ Academy was founded in 2002 by Jam Master Jay of Run DMC and Rob Principe, our company’s CEO. At the time, there was little education with regards to DJing specifically so the school was a way to provide this learning in a formal setting that would allow aspiring DJs to be successful.
The school started in NYC and has since expanded with locations in Los Angeles, Miami, Atlanta, Philadelphia, and here in Chicago. The copyrighted curriculum is the same throughout each school and has proven to be very successful having taught more than 500,000 people to DJ and produce music.
Has it been a smooth road?
The most noticeable challenge is probably making people aware that we exist. While we execute different types of marketing methods, many people often still do not know that DJ schools are in existence, especially Scratch DJ Academy. We are still growing and trying to get the word out that we are not only a school that will teach you how to DJ but that we are unquestionably the best at what we do.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Scratch DJ Academy – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
We focus on teaching people how to DJ and perform in front of live audiences. Whether they are looking to do this as a hobby at their friends’ house parties or at major venue before thousands of people, we give students the tools and skills to become a successful DJ.
Our instructors are all working professional DJs with years of experience and understand what is needed to be a great performer. Our programs cover everything from live mixing & scratching to basic music production and learning the business side of the industry. Our courses go in depth to teach students everything they need to know so when they are finished with the program, they are ready to start performing. Upon completion of the program, students are certified by Scratch and receive a gold plaque recognizing their achievement.
We give our students tests in the form of performances and are evaluated on what they are doing well and what needs to be improved. Being a student gives them the opportunity to practice at our academy several days per week and use our industry standard equipment.
Our copyrighted curriculum is one of the major advantages that we have over other schools which is used at each location to teach students what they need to know to be the best DJ possible. In addition to this, our instructors not only perform in their respective cities but also throughout the country and overseas so students are truly learning from the best. As a result, we are proud when our students become residents at different venues and are constantly showcasing their skills that they learned at Scratch DJ Academy.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
I like that this city offers a wide range of venues and DJs that perform different types of music. Whether it’s hip hop, house, EDM, or pop, Chicago offers places for everything depending on the mood that you are in. However, most of these venues are not as impressive when compared to cities such as New York or Miami. The atmosphere and crowds of Chicago also are not always the most engaging with the exception of a few distinct spots.
Pricing:
- Accelerated Program (7 months) – $6,499
- Part Time Program (12 months) – $4,999
- Level 1 Beginner Course (6 weeks) – $499
Contact Info:
- Address: Scratch DJ Academy
4001 N. Ravenswood, #1
Chicago, IL 60613 - Website: scratch.com
- Phone: 872.806.1005
- Email: arich@scratch.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/scratchchicago
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/scratchdjacademy
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/scratchchicago
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/scratch-dj-academy-chicago-3
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
