The "DJ & Computer - Zone" provides a platform where musicians, retailers, manufacturers and music schools, in fact any interested party, can obtain in-depth information on DJ equipment and music soft/hardware. The numerous hands-on exhibits on show at Stand A 59 in Hall 5.1 should prove irresistible to visitors.

In the dedicated learning zone "DJ & Computer - Seminars" qualified instructors explain how to use DJ equipment and how to use a computer as a musical instrument - or even better as a music production tool. From 11.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. on all five days of the fair, visitors are invited to attend a varied programme of basic teaching and practical courses - an appealing and professional starting point for both experienced musicians and music novices alike. Sessions designed specifically for the public visitor segment will be held at the weekend.

Computer and DJ Equipment - a strong growth market
Over the past ten years, pop music has undergone a fundamental transformation, with technological advances responsible for this development to a far greater extent than ever before. Today's music is no longer characterised by virtuoso musicians but by DJs and programmers who, in many cases, can't play a musical instrument or even read a note of music, which means that immediate access to the creative world of music is available to anyone.

Music-making has regained its status as a popular hobby, posting extremely high growth rates, particularly among the young. The preconditions are now easier to create than they used to be, with computer hard- and software eliminating the need to spend years and years practising an instrument. A natural consequence of this is that one can achieve the first satisfactory musical results in a far shorter time span.

Lack of advice at point of sale
Regrettably, a deep chasm exists between desire and knowledge. Electronics markets have long since ceased to assume an advisory role. Music retailers have a tendency to frown on novice computer musicians, who wherever possible purchase only a cheap sound card, whereas they, are the ones who would specifically benefit from indepth advice. Young consumers, whose wish to develop their own musical creativity, are still being neglected.