Youth Music (Manchester)

Join Gaydio Academy’s free DJ & Production training programme, supported by the National Lottery. This hands-on course is designed for anyone curious about DJing, music production, and how DJs fit into radio and the wider music industry.

Across a series of informal training sessions, you’ll learn the fundamentals of DJing and audio production, 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

This course runs across 10 weeks and combines DJ skills with music production, giving you a full introduction to the tools, techniques, and creative process behind modern dance music.

Weeks 1 to 5: DJ Skills

Weeks 6 to 10: Music Production

10 Weeks:

  1. Preparing Your Set & Pioneer Basics

  2. Beatmatching & Seamless Mixing

  3. Phrasing & Impact Mixing

  4. Filters, FX & Getting Gigs

  5. Record Your First Live Set

  6. Ableton Setup, Layout & MIDI

  7. Building Ideas & Song Arrangement

  8. Effects, Energy & Sound Basics

  9. Mixdown & Club-Ready Mastering

  10. Create Your Own Track From Scratch

Location, Dates, Times & Costs

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

Taster Date & Time: 4th June 2026 - 6:30pm to 9pm

Course Date: Thursdays from the 11th June to 20th August 2026

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.

FAQ

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