Ian CheesemanI have a college friend who always dreamed of becoming a DJ. At first, he tried the whole DIY route—hours on YouTube, trying to nail transitions and beats—but to be honest, he kind of…sucked?
That’s when I gently nudged him to check out the top-rated DJ lessons in the city.
After a few weeks, I showed up to one of his sets—and wow, the difference was insane! I heard smooth mixes and sick beats that the crowd (including me) definitely enjoyed.
So, if you’ve ever thought about spinning tracks but don’t know where to start, Toronto’s top DJ lessons might just set you up for success.
How much do DJ lessons cost in Toronto?
DJ lessons in Toronto cost around $50 to $100 per hour for private sessions, while group classes are more affordable at around $900 for a whole course.
Some studios offer package deals that bring the cost down if you book multiple lessons at once.
1. Toronto DJ Academy
Business Address: 2460 Anson Dr, Mississauga
Website: https://www.torontodjacademy.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/torontodjacademy/
Contact Details: (647) 504-3499
Business Hours:
Mon – Fri: 3 PM – 9 PM
Saturday: 9 AM – 2 PM
Toronto DJ Academy is owned by DJ Fizza, one of Canada’s most sought-after female DJs with over 12 years of experience. She’s spun at some of the biggest events like the NBA All-Star Gala, Fashion Week, and TIFF, so you know she’s legit.
Her school offers an 8-week structured course that takes you from the basics to real-world DJing.
Since they have partnerships with affiliates around the GTA, they give every student the chance to play their first pro gig. Plus, graduates get to show off their skills live at the academy’s Annual DJ Show, in front of an audience.
What’s cool is that they also run a Children’s Summer DJ Camp for kids ages 8 to 14.
A downside is that this spot doesn’t offer private one-on-one lessons.
Provided comprehensive hands-on training
“I had an incredible time learning DJing at the Toronto DJ academy! DJ Fizza, our teacher, is top-notch and truly passionate about teaching. They provided comprehensive hands-on training, guiding us through every aspect of DJing from beatmatching, mixing techniques, and FXs to sessions like how to market yourself as a DJ.”
– Yashraj Gandhi, Google Review
Now, I DJ 2 times a week downtown
“DJ Fizza is seriously one of the coolest people I’ve met!! I learned so much and really had a good time in this class 🤗. Now, I DJ 2 times a week downtown, couldn’t have done it without her.”
– Lilia Slimane, Google Review
2. MIXX Sound Academy
Business Address: 401 Alden Rd #2, Markham
Website: https://mixxsoundacademy.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mixxsoundnetwork/
Contact Details: (647) 308-6678
Business Hours:
Tue – Fri: 12 PM – 8 PM
Saturday: 12 PM – 7 PM
Sunday: 12 PM – 6 PM
MIXX Sound Academy’s goal is to help shape artists to perform, book gigs, and build real careers in the music scene.
Their DJ Learning Hub is led by an instructor who earned second place in the Canadian DMC Championship—a big deal in the DJ world.
Despite his amazing street cred, the curriculum here is surprisingly beginner-friendly, which means no confusing tech jargon or scattered lessons.
We like that they also offer career-focused guidance, like tips on stage presence, setting up for live performances, securing gigs, and planning a tour. It’s rare to find a school that teaches you the business side of things—no wonder they’re a bit pricey!
But to offset the cost, you’ll have access to their DJ Depot, where you can buy premium gear and score discounts.
Classes are one-on-one and very structured
“Surprised to find this hidden gem in Toronto. The school has brand new DJ equipment, including CDJ 3000s. They offer beginner to professional DJ lessons. Classes are one-on-one and very structured. Staff and instructors are also very knowledgeable and genuine.”
– J H, Google Review
Offers students a lot of mentorship horsepower
“Amazing, well-equipped facility, talented and experienced instructors, and great customer service. The team at MIXX SOUND ACADEMY offers their students a lot of mentorship horsepower, in both DJing and electronic music production.”
– DJ Depot, Google Review
3. Scratch Lab DJ Institute
Business Address: 3435 Yonge St
Website: http://www.scratchlab.ca/
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/groups/2247530516/?_rdc=1&_rdr#
Contact Details: (416) 727-2824
Business Hours:
Mon – Thurs: 12 PM – 8 PM
Sat – Sun: 12 PM – 6 PM
Scratch Lab DJ Institute offers DJ workshops and private lessons for all ages and skill levels. No need to bring anything either, since all equipment is provided.
The school is led by DJ Baba Khan. Not only is he one of Canada’s top urban DJs, but he also runs SOULSHOCK, a huge nightclub promotion company in Toronto.
Their curriculum combines music theory with real DJ techniques—each level includes eight 90-minute classes, and if you miss a session, you can make it up. They even offer weekend crash courses for those who want to speed things along!
And if group classes aren’t your thing, private lessons are available, too.
Keep in mind, however, that they charge a bit higher compared to other spots.
Curriculum approved by the Ontario Board of Education
“One of the best-known schools in Toronto, this place in East York has private and group classes where they teach a curriculum approved by the Ontario Board of Education. It’s a proper school: expect to leave here with an in-depth understanding of the art of DJing.”
– blogTO, Online Review
State-of-the-art equipment and world-class instructors
“Canada’s first DJ school, Scratch Lab, offers a premier, 2,500-square-foot Toronto studio with state-of-the-art equipment and world-class instructors.”
– HelpWe’veGotKids, Online Review
4. Off Centre DJ School
Business Address: 201 Coxwell Ave
Website: https://www.offcentredj.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/offcentredj
Contact Details: (416) 704-1941
Business Hours: Mon – Thurs: 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Off Centre DJ School has been around since 2004, making it one of the longest-running boutique DJ and electronic music education spots in Toronto.
Their flagship course is the FULL DJ Certificate Program. You’ll start with the classic Technics 1200 turntables and work your way through all four DJ levels.
They also offer DJ Camps, which are intensive four-day programs. Here, they focus not just on the technical side, like mixing, scratching, and equipment, but also on DJ culture, in terms of lifestyle, expectations, and more.
Now, for beginners or curious cats, the Weekend DJ Workshop is a great choice. It’s a two-hour, hands-on session with a max of six people per class—perfect for small groups, date nights, or team-building events.
Note that slots are limited, so you’ll need to book well in advance.
The best learning experience of my life
“Nothing “Off Centre” about my experience in the condensed Full DJ program. Everything was on point. Erik was a very supportive instructor, creating a safe space to be creative, explore, learn, make mistakes, and harness our passion for music. The small class size really helped with getting a good mix of one-on-one time as well as group play. The build-up from class to class and module to module left us anticipating the next session right up to the live performances, which allowed us to showcase the new skills we acquired. The best learning experience of my life and highly recommended to the music lovers out there who have always wanted to embark on the DJ journey.”
– Aish Esmail, Google Review
Absolutely LOVED this school!
“Absolutely LOVED this school! The time, attention, and care from the teachers were exactly what I needed to learn the basics. What sold me on the course was learning right from scratch… literally. I knew that if I was going to learn this craft, I wanted to learn and build my skills with the right foundation. Beatmatching on vinyl. I’m so happy I invested in myself. No regrets. I hope you’ll do the same 🎶 @MyGirlTuesday.”
– Kristina Laukkanen, Google Review
5. DJ Depot
Business Address: Unit 108, 6200 Dixie Rd, Mississauga
Website: https://djdepot.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/DJDepot
Contact Details: (905) 792-9578
Business Hours:
Mon – Fri: 11 AM – 7 PM
Saturday: 11 AM – 6 PM
DJ Depot offers DJ lessons and music production classes for youth, teens, and adults.
Their courses cover everything from the basics to advanced techniques, including beatmatching, scratching, mixing, and live performance skills. If you’re more into production, they’ll help you master popular software like Ableton Live and FL Studio.
Business and branding strategies are taught, too, to help launch your career.
On top of that, they provide event rentals, from sound systems and lighting to full DJ setups across Toronto and the GTA. This is perfect if you’re just starting out.
Just a heads up, though—we heard reports of slow or no response to calls. This can be frustrating if you need quick info.
Have always gone above and beyond
“I’ve been a customer of DJ Depot since I started DJ’ing over 25 years ago. Chester and Lennox have always gone above and beyond to help answer my questions and find me the latest gear or music. I can honestly say that without this store, I wouldn’t have been able to extend my career as a DJ.”
– Rehan Ahmad, Google Review
This man knows the DJ business inside & out!!
“The Best. Lennox is fantastic. This man knows the DJ business inside & out!!”
– John Smiley, Google Review
