Under-18s in Essex to be given free DJ and production classes

Essex County Council has announced new DJ and music production classes, titled "Count Me In", for 12 to 18-year-olds.

Funded by the Essex Year of Numbers programme, children across Essex will now have access to free weekly music production classes.

Essex Year of Numbers is a countywide campaign centred on improving numeracy for children under the age of 18, launched in September 2023.

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Taking place at Basildon, Brentwood and Harlow youth centres, DJ Shy Cookie, a professional DJ and music producer who has worked MOBO award winning garage royalties DJ Luck & MC Neat, will teach students how to use DJ decks, create tracks and pass on vital music industry knowledge to the prospective DJs, producers and label-heads.

Beginning his musical journey in 1998, DJ Shy Cookie has produced the DJ Luck and MC Neat album 'It's All Good' on Island Records, started a label with fellow producer Ormshi and returned to education to achieve a first class music degree from Middlesex University.

DJ Shy Cookie said that "working as a tutor as part of the Essex Music Service is a real privilege."

"The service helps young people discover and finesse their musical talents and it is amazing to play a part in that process ... It is brilliant that the Essex Year of Numbers is offering sessions like this for free. If you're dreaming of becoming a master DJ, come and join us, you never know where it might lead."

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Count Me In, as part of the wider Essex Year of Numbers programme, will focus on how basic maths plays a crucial role in the musical process.

Councillor Tony Ball declared that "our 'Count Me In' sessions are a great opportuntiy for young people interested in the music industry to learn the art of DJ-ing and production free of charge, in a fun and supportive environment.

You can visit the Essex Music Hub website to book a space, here

Tibor Heskett is Mixmag's Digital Intern, follow him on Twitter