Beyond The Decks: DJ Development Programme

APPLY BY MON 5 JANUARY 2026, 10AM

Whether you’re mixing at home, experimenting online, or playing small gigs, turning your DJing into something bigger can feel exciting – and overwhelming. Finding your unique sound, connecting with an audience, and navigating the music scene are challenges many young DJs face when stepping up their skills and presence.

Our Beyond The Decks: DJ Development Programme will guide you through six hands-on sessions to sharpen your technical skills, explore advanced mixing techniques, and experiment with creative ways to make your sets your own. You’ll also develop your brand, learn to promote yourself, and gain practical experience performing. By the end, you’ll have the confidence, strategies, and stage experience to perform with purpose and take your DJing to the next level.

What do I get by taking part? 

• Stage Presence & Crowd Control – Master the mic, read the room, and perform with confidence.
• Advanced Mixing Techniques – From harmonic mixing to live mashups, creative EQ, and 4-deck mastery.
• Brand & Identity – Develop your unique sound, curate powerful playlists, and promote yourself authentically.
• The Business of DJing – Learn event management, networking, and how to diversify your income streams.
• Live Experimentation – Collaborate with musicians, integrate production tools, and push the boundaries of performance.
• Final Showcase – Take part in the Final showcase at Roundhouse Studio Theatre  

Who is teaching the project? 

Kensaye is a London-based DJ, producer, and educator whose sets fuse Afro-Caribbean rhythms, Hip Hop, and electronic sounds. He has performed across Europe, including Glastonbury and Southbank Centre, and previously hosted radio shows on Soho Radio, Ness Radio, Voices and much more. As founder of Our HeartBeats (a DJ collective supported by Counterpoints Arts) he mentors emerging DJs from refugee and migrant backgrounds. Alongside his live work, Kensaye has produced for artists like King Promise and Falz, scored for film and TV (Netflix), and designed sounds for Output’s AfroPop expansion, bridging music, culture, and community through rhythm and innovation.

Plus guests! We will also have guest tutors for some sessions who will bring their expertise.

Do I need any particular skills or experience to take part?

This is a project for DJs who are already confident behind the decks but ready to elevate performance, brand, and career opportunities.

How to join

• Submit your application through our online form by Monday 5 January 2026 at 10am.
• Successful applicants will be notified by Monday 12 January 2026.

The Roundhouse champions diversity, equity and inclusion. We believe in a just society and in the benefit for all gained from the richness of diverse experiences and expressions within cultural output.

Through its youth programmes, the Roundhouse actively seeks to increase diversity and address disadvantage and inequality. Under the provisions made for Positive Action in the Equality Act 2010 the Roundhouse may, in the event of identifying two or more candidates of equal merit, give preference to a candidate or candidates that are from a group that is disproportionately underrepresented or otherwise disadvantaged.

I’M NOT SURE I CAN AFFORD TO TAKE PART…

If you need help to pay for things like project fees, transport or childcare, we can help. Find out how you can get support. If you are using a bursary to pay for the project, please ensure you arrange this with the Advice Base with plenty of time before the start of the project.

I HAVE ADDITIONAL NEEDS. WHAT SUPPORT IS AVAILABLE?

We are committed to supporting D/deaf, disabled and neurodiverse young people, those with medical conditions, access requirements or any lived experience that may require adaptation, support or sensitivity. If there is anything you would like to let us (our youth workers, tutors or staff) know that will support your enjoyment and access, you can do so by emailing us at advicebase@roundhouse.org.uk, and we will contact you to discuss further how to best support your engagement.