DJ School Project Brings Community Together to Tackle Social Isolation in East Cheshire

DJ school participant using professional equipment during a music workshop at Proper Sound in Macclesfield

There is something special about music’s ability to bring people together.

A beat can start a conversation. A shared favourite track can create an instant connection. For people who feel isolated, stepping into a welcoming room and learning something new alongside others can make a genuinely positive difference.

That is exactly what is happening at a new DJ school project in Macclesfield, where Unknown Macc CIC is using music workshops to help local residents build confidence, make friends and feel part of a community.

The project, based at Proper Sound on Chestergate, has already supported people aged from 12 to 56. Since launching in April, it has provided 10 fully funded places, with many more people attending paid sessions.

It is a fantastic example of a local idea creating a well-deserved opportunity for people across East Cheshire.

A welcoming place to learn and connect

The DJ school is not simply about learning how to mix tracks.

Participants can try both vinyl and digital DJing, ask questions, practise together and learn at a comfortable pace. The face-to-face format is important. Unlike watching tutorials alone at home, the sessions offer the chance to meet other people, share experiences and enjoy the encouragement of tutors and fellow learners.

For beginners, that friendly atmosphere can make all the difference.

The project was created by Lucie Wright, owner of Proper Sound, with the aim of using music to reduce isolation, support mental wellbeing and help people develop confidence. Her own family experience helped inspire the idea.

Speaking to Macclesfield Nub News, Lucie explained that she wanted to create somewhere young people and adults could feel welcome and find an outlet from isolation.

That simple goal is already having a meaningful impact.

Two participants working together on DJ equipment during a supportive community workshop

Music workshops for all ages

One of the most encouraging parts of the project is its open and inclusive approach.

You do not need previous DJ experience. You do not need to own expensive equipment. You do not need to arrive already knowing what you are doing.

The sessions are designed for complete beginners as well as people who may have experimented with DJing before. Participants can learn about different styles and techniques, from working with records to using modern digital equipment.

The teaching team includes local DJs Oscar Trevena, who teaches vinyl DJing, and Ben Vincent, who teaches digital DJing. Experienced DJ Daz Glazer, who has more than 35 years of experience, has also joined the teaching team to support workshops and one-to-one tuition.

This mixture of knowledge gives learners a great chance to discover what suits them. Some may enjoy the hands-on feel of vinyl, while others may prefer the flexibility of digital mixing.

Most importantly, everyone has space to learn without pressure.

Building confidence one track at a time

Social isolation can affect people in many different ways. Someone may be new to an area, struggling with anxiety, finding it difficult to attend school or work, or simply lacking a regular opportunity to meet others.

A creative activity can provide a helpful first step.

The DJ school gives participants a reason to leave the house, a shared activity to focus on and a relaxed setting where conversations can develop naturally. Completing a small task, mixing two tracks or receiving encouragement from a tutor can also help rebuild confidence.

One participant, quoted by Nub News, described living with severe anxiety, depression and heavy social isolation. They said the session gave them a reason to get out of bed and provided a safe space to learn and build confidence.

That is a powerful reminder that a local workshop can offer much more than a new practical skill.

The project also gives participants the opportunity to perform in front of a live audience at Proper Sound when they feel ready. There is no pressure to perform before someone is comfortable, but for those who choose to take part, it can be a fantastic next step.

Making funded places possible

Cost can be a barrier when someone wants to try a new activity. Unknown Macc CIC is working to make sure the benefits of the project are not limited to people who can easily afford a place.

The 10 fully funded places provided since launch have helped local residents access the sessions without paying. Supported places are also available for people who could particularly benefit from the wellbeing and social side of the workshops.

Income from paid places, together with successful grant applications, helps the CIC continue offering funded opportunities and develop further community projects in Macclesfield.

It is a positive model: people who pay for a session help make free places possible for others.

Close-up of a participant learning vinyl DJing with a turntable, mixer and headphones

Summer sessions and new opportunities

There are several ways for people to get involved over the coming months.

One-to-one lessons are available every Monday for those who would prefer more individual support. The Summer DJ Club runs every Wednesday from 12pm to 2pm during the school holidays, with places advertised at £22.

The Summer DJ Club offers young people a creative and social activity during the holidays. There are also plans to develop it into a regular after-school club, creating an exciting longer-term opportunity for younger residents.

New autumn taster sessions have been released too, leading into the next beginner’s DJ course in time for Christmas. Taster sessions are a great option for anyone who feels unsure about committing to a full course straight away.

More information, including details of funded places, can be found at Unknown Macc CIC.

A great fit for East Cheshire’s community spirit

Projects like this reflect what makes East Cheshire such a welcoming place to live, work and visit.

From community radio and local music to independent shops, cafés, venues and voluntary groups, there are many people working behind the scenes to create opportunities for others.

Canalside Radio has been serving North East Cheshire from Bollington since 2004, providing a local platform for music, community voices and area news. While the DJ school is run independently by Unknown Macc CIC, both initiatives share a similar community-minded spirit: giving local people a voice, helping people connect and celebrating the area’s creative energy.

At the East Cheshire Directory, we love highlighting this kind of positive local story. Our directory helps residents and visitors discover businesses, activities and services across North East Cheshire, from music and creative opportunities to places to eat, shop and spend time together.

You can also explore our listings for local dance schools and activity providers if you are looking for another way to get involved in the community.

DJ performing at a small community music showcase with listeners gathered in a welcoming studio

How to find out more

If you or someone you know could benefit from a friendly, creative activity, the DJ school is well worth exploring.

You can:

Visit Unknown Macc CIC for the latest dates and booking details.
Ask about Monday one-to-one lessons.
Look out for Summer DJ Club sessions and autumn taster classes.
Enquire about supported or fully funded places.
Follow Canalside Radio for local music and community updates.
Browse the East Cheshire Directory to discover more local organisations and activities.

You do not have to be an experienced DJ to take the first step. You only need an interest in music and the willingness to give something new a try.

This feel-good project shows that community connection can begin in many different ways. Sometimes it starts with a conversation. Sometimes it starts with a shared song. And sometimes, in Macclesfield, it starts by stepping up to a DJ deck and pressing play.