Summer 2022

Young DJs who took part in the Youth Music funded 'Integrate DJ Project' performed at 'Our Biennale' on July 2.  The performance was in the courtyard at the Lawrence Batley Theatre in event collated by young people; there was something for everyone from live graffiti art to skateboarding.

The finale of the project was an album launch on July 12 at The Wardrobe, Leeds, with the opportunity for the DJs to perform their composed tracks or enjoy their first play of the album.  It was a joint event in connection with Bradford Music Services, Leeds Music Education Hub and Wakefield Music Services.

About Integrate

The ‘Integrate’ programme is an exciting strand of our joint West Yorkshire Musical Inclusion Strategy.  It will develop and embed sustainable creative music technology and song-writing activity across the region through a range of new face to face and online opportunities.
 
The project is working with Children in Challenging Circumstances from a variety of secondary education settings with an integrated approach that puts the self-esteem and sense of belonging for every young person at the heart. ‘Integrate’ will draw on the rich musical worlds of Hip Hop, Grime and EDM, concluding with a blended large scale musical celebration.
 
We are working in four differing educational settings across mainstream schools, Pupil Referral Units and SEND support schools.  A combination of DJing industry professionals and teachers experienced in working with Children in Challenging Circumstances will mentor the young participants, and each other. We are excited to see (and hear!) the outcomes of the project not only in Kirklees but across West Yorkshire as a whole.