DJ Aloona

Oksana Matsalak
April 1, 2024
Eugenia Kuzmina
April 30, 2024
From the pulsating heart of Moscow nightlife to her own DJ School in the USA, Alena’s journey from a young music enthusiast to an internationally acclaimed DJ is truly remarkable. Her passion for melodies was ignite in childhood, but a devastating tragedy pushed her in a new direction, making Alena’s story a testament to the transformative power of music in the face of adversity. Now, as the founder of Miami DJ Academy, she is not only shaping the next generation of DJs but also expanding her own horizons on international stages.

Alena, how did your DJ career begin and what inspired you to choose this path? What obstacles did you have to overcome on the path to success?
My DJ career began with a deep-seated passion for music ignited at a young age. During a family vacation, at just six years old, I was captivated by the melodies drifting from a nearby café. This chance encounter sparked a lifelong love affair with music. With determination, I convinced my parents to investigate further, leading to the acquisition of three cassette tapes that became the cornerstone of my burgeoning music collection. As technology advanced, so did my musical journey. From cassette tapes to CDs, I embraced each evolution with enthusiasm, always ahead of the curve with my eclectic selection. Sharing my musical discoveries with friends became a ritual, mastering the art of copying and sharing music—a skill that would shape my future endeavors.
However, tragedy struck in 2009 with the sudden loss of my mother in a devastating car accident. Amidst the darkness, a ray of light emerged in the form of a heartfelt gesture from a dear friend. Sensing my need for solace, my friend proposed a new path—a journey into the world of DJing, where music became both solace and expression.
With courage and determination, I enrolled in Moscow’s premier DJ school, immersing myself in the craft with unwavering dedication. What began as a means of healing soon blossomed into a full-fledged passion, as I honed my skills behind the decks and embraced the electrifying energy of the dance floor.
Driven by a desire to share my love for music with the world, I began playing in Moscow clubs, captivating audiences with my infectious energy and impeccable taste. My talent soon caught the attention of industry insiders, paving the way for international acclaim and recognition.

You were able to fully reveal your talent in the USA, and your own DJ school is a clear confirmation of this. What do you think sets Miami DJ Academy apart from other DJ schools? How do you combine work at the DJ Academy with your own performances?
Miami DJ Academy stands out from other schools with its transformative approach to DJ lessons. In just 10 hours, we guarantee to cultivate your passion for music into a tangible skill, going beyond mere instruction to nurture your talent and help you shine. Moreover, practical experience is vital, which is why we organize live DJ shows at top Miami venues after the course. Balancing work at the academy with performances is seamless, as the school primarily operates during the day, leaving evenings free for shows.

What qualities do you think are necessary to become a successful DJ? How is the selection process for your school?
Essential qualities for a successful DJ include impeccable taste in music, adept music selection, presentation, and the ability to showcase talent effectively. We strive to accept all music enthusiasts at Miami DJ Academy, aiming to make their dreams a reality through our selection process.

What trends in music and DJ-ing seem to you the most promising at the moment? What trends in the music industry have influenced your career most significantly?

In Miami, Afro beats are currently a prominent trend, signaling a shift from the city’s previous open format focus. Personally, I’m influenced by deep house and melodic techno, which have significantly impacted my career.

What were your most memorable moments while performing on international stages? What goals for the development of your DJ school do you set for yourself in the near future?
Performing at Burning Man’s desert stages and in Miami clubs are among my most memorable international moments. Looking ahead, I aim to expand my DJ school’s reach by opening new locations, potentially in cities like New York City and Los Angeles.