Learn To DJ - Youth Music (Manchester)

Join Gaydio Academy’s free DJ training programme, supported by the National Lottery and taught by some of the worlds leading DJ's and Music producers, Dave Cooper & FORBID.

This hands-on course is designed for anyone curious about DJing, and how DJs fit into radio and the wider music industry.

Dave has a current residency at the NUMBER ONE club in the world, 'UNVRS' with Discoliscious Collective, also played for crowds at Reading & Leeds Festival, Parklife, HOMOBLOC and Warehouse Project, to name a few.

And FORBID,

Across a series of informal training sessions, you’ll learn the fundamentals of DJing, explore different styles and pathways, and create your own mixes and content to take away. You’ll get an insider’s look at how DJs work within radio, clubs, and digital platforms, with guidance from industry professionals along the way.

You’ll also receive one-to-one support, work alongside other aspiring DJs, and gain opportunities to build connections through progression routes with Gaydio and beyond. Whether you’re completely new or already experimenting at home, this course is designed to help you take your next step.

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.