Become a DJ - Youth Music (Manchester)

Join Gaydio Academy’s free DJ training programme, supported by The National Lottery and taught by two of the world’s leading DJs and music producers, Dave Cooper and FORBID.

Over five weeks, you’ll learn from industry professionals who have performed on some of the biggest stages and produced music played around the world.

Dave Cooper currently holds a residency with the Discoliscious Collective at UNVRS Ibiza, officially ranked the number one club in the world. He has performed at Reading & Leeds Festival, Parklife, HOMOBLOC and Warehouse Project, to name a few. His production credits range from unofficial club edits and remixes supported by club and radio DJs across the UK and internationally, to original productions and official remixes, including for Grammy-nominated vocalist Kelli-Leigh on Armada Music.

FORBID has performed at HOMOBLOC, Manchester Pride and the Birmingham Pride Dance Arena. As a producer, he has released several acclaimed dance tracks, establishing himself as one of the UK’s most exciting electronic music talents.

Through a series of relaxed, hands-on training sessions, you’ll learn the fundamentals of DJing, explore different genres and career pathways, and create your own mixes and content to take away. You’ll also get an insider’s look at how DJs work across radio, clubs and digital platforms, with guidance from experienced industry professionals every step of the way.

Alongside the workshops, you’ll receive one-to-one support, collaborate with other aspiring DJs, and gain access to progression opportunities through Gaydio Academy and our industry partners. Whether you’re picking up the decks for the first time or already practising at home, this course is designed to build your confidence, develop your skills and help you take your next step as a DJ.

Course Layout

6 'Become a DJ' cohorts will run between August 2026 to January 2027, with each cohort delivered over a 5 week period.

More details are provided below:

Become a DJ: August 2026 - January 2027 (5 weeks)

DJ Week Layout:

Preparing Your Set & Pioneer Basics
Beatmatching & Seamless Mixing
Phrasing & Impact Mixing
Filters, FX & Getting Gigs
Record Your First Live Set

Location, Dates, Times & Costs

Location: Gaydio, Manchester One Building, 53 Portland Street, Manchester, M1 3LF

Taster Date & Time: 25th August 2026

Become a DJ (5 Weeks) - Start Date:

Cohort 1: 1st September 2027 (5 weeks, always on a Tuesday)

Cohort 2: 3rd September (5 weeks, always on a Thursday)

Course Time: 6pm to 9pm

Cost: Free for all participants (who meet the criteria below)

Criteria

You must be 12-25 years old
Must be available for the dates above

Why Take The Course?

We're gonna be a bit big-headed and let you take a look at our testimonials, they speak for themself!

Application Form

Please check the criteria on this page to ensure you are eligible for the course before submitting. If you do not meet the criteria, please check other courses in the ‘Current Courses’ section or send us an enquiry on the ‘Connect’ tab on this website.

With Thanks

Youth Music
Since 1999, Youth Music have supported over 5,000 projects. Use our interactive map to discover how music is transforming lives in your community today.