Free weekly music production classes are taking place at youth centres in Basildon, Brentwood and Harlow. The sessions are designed for 12 to 18-year-olds and funded by the Essex Year of Numbers programme.
Taught by DJ Shy Cookie, a professional DJ and music producer, attendees will get hands-on experience with the DJ decks, create tracks from scratch and develop a wider understanding of the music industry. The classes will also show how basic maths plays an intrinsic part in the musical process.
There is a vast array of activities planned across the next 14 months in all corners of the county. Essex Year of Numbers aims to inspire children, parents and carers to develop a love of numbers through entertaining and accessible opportunities both inside and outside of the classroom.
Commenting on the new programme, Alex Mercier, otherwise known as DJ Shy Cookie, said:
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.
Basic maths plays a crucial part of everyday life and becoming comfortable with numbers has undoubtedly helped me in my own music career. 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."
Councillor Tony Ball, Cabinet Member for Education Excellence, Lifelong Learning and Employability said:
Feeling at ease with numbers and having the confidence to use maths in everyday life is so important, at all ages. By creating a host of exciting and accessible resources and activities as part of our Essex Year of Numbers campaign, we want to help people across the county to embrace a lifelong love of learning.
Our ‘Count Me In’ sessions are a great opportunity 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.”
Sessions are taking place each week until Monday 18 December 2023. Visit the Essex Music Hub website to book a space, or for further information about 'Count Me In'.