DJ WORKSHOP SERIES: 2024

​In January 2024, Queensway Collective received funding from The National Lottery Community Fund (TNLCF). The grant was used to run an 11-week DJ workshop for marginalised groups that face barriers to entering the electronic music industry. The programme was held at Arts Council England NPO Future Yard CIC, a community-focused music venue based in Birkenhead, Merseyside. 

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Our 'pupils' consisted of 13 people identifying as female, non-binary, or LGBTQIA+, based within Merseyside. The  programme covered the basics of DJing, including mixing, beat-matching and track selection, whilst also offering practical advice on pursuing a career in the industry. Facilitated by local DJ and musician, Mia Mai, the workshops were designed to be as ‘hands on’ as possible, with participants split into smaller groups with members of the Queensway team to practice on 3 sets of DJ decks over 2 hours. 

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To further aid learning, we produced a ‘how to DJ’ handbook, which consolidated topics covered in sessions with the view for participants to carry on developing their skills in their own time. As well as the booklet, we collaborated with Audio Technica, who generously donated a pair of headphones to each participant, an essential piece of equipment for any DJ. The Queensway team also offered 1-1 sessions with participants, and encouraged them to utilise the venue’s studio facilities, which were available to book for a small fee. 

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As the programme drew to a close, we held a showcase event at Future Yard on 29th March, with perhaps the most diverse lineup Birkenhead has ever witnessed! With minimal support from the Queensway team, each participant played a 30-minute set to a packed-out bar of family, friends and supporters. The atmosphere was electric, and it was clear to see just how far each participant had developed in less than 3 months, with extremely high-quality performances on display all round. 

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Queensway Collective would like to express our gratitude to TNLCF for making this project possible. Stay tuned for updates on our 2025 programme!