Transition - En ny syn på hur DJs övar för att spela inför publik med självförtroende och glädje

This bachelor's thesis explores the emotional and technical challenges faced by DJs transitioning from practising at home to performing behind the booth in front of an audience. The topic is relevant as performance anxiety is particularly widespread in the music industry. Research shows that between 16.5 and 60 percent of musicians are affected (Fernholz et al., 2019), with symptoms often appearing days or weeks before a performance, including intrusive thoughts, self-doubt and physical reactions like increased heart rate and trembling (Studer et al., 2011). The project follows a human centred design approach, focusing on DJs at the beginning of their professional careers. Through interviews, workshops, open surveys and lo-fi to mid-fi prototyping, the research outlines the technical and emotional skills DJs need today. The proposed outcome is a hybrid solution combining a DJ controller designed to reflect club-standard gear with a digital learning tool set in a virtual environment. The aim is to offer DJs new ways to practise beyond the technical, and to build solid performance confidence. Key insights gathered during the ten-week thesis period show that DJs prefer equipment that closely matches what is found in clubs. Clear guidelines were also developed for what a digital XR DJ learning programme should include, combining gamification, challenges and rewards with crowd reactions inside a virtual venue. The thesis provides a better understanding of what causes stress during DJ sets and which features are most important in home practice DJ equipment. It aims to support the development of music education tools and contribute to future improvements in both DJ software and hardware. The author hopes the findings will support future DJs in refining their skills and gaining confidence on stage.