Sheffield DJ launches free mixing classes for the unemployed

A music producer has started offering free DJ and mixing classes to the unemployed to help improve their job prospects.

Jamie Ferguson runs music production sessions at Arundel Lane Studios in Sheffield city centre.

The 10-week courses are funded by Sheffield City Council and are open to residents aged 16 and over and the unemployed.

Mr Ferguson made his name as a DJ at the legendary bassline club Niche in the early 2000s and in 2019 held residencies at two venues in Ibiza.

He said: “We work with the youth justice team, local authorities and local schools and it works really well.”

Charlotte Green, who worked in sales, is one of the students.

She said: “I’ve never done anything like this before, I didn’t really know what to expect.

“Better make some work out of it.”

Mr Ferguson, who has performed in nightclubs around the world for the past 25 years, leads weekly group sessions.

One participant, Lee Casey, is now taking individual lessons after completing the initial course.

He said: “It opened my eyes a bit to what I can achieve in life. I never thought DJing was something I could do, but I think I’m pretty good at it and I’ll keep doing it until I get there. somewhere with her.”

Mr Ferguson wants to continue teaching for the next few years and hopes some of his clients will be able to make their break in the music industry.

He said: “Hearing that they didn’t get out of the house very often and now they do, I feel really good because they’re buying what’s on offer and it’s working for them.”