Today's DJ knows all about beat matching, pitch mixing, beat juggling, scratching, turntablism, CD mixing and all the other tricks associated with the DJ trade. The lads who are on POPS Course at the Powerhouse on the Beechwood Estate know if they're to take Ibiza by storm (or even the local nightclub), they've got to put in hours of practice to perfect their technique and knowledge of music production. Two rooms in the building are kitted out with all the equipment they need to become Wirral's answer to Pez Tellet, including microphones for the lads to pump up their MC-ing skills. It's not all hard work - the pool table and sit off area are very popular, as is the local bakery at lunchtime, apparently the cheese pasties go down a treat!!  | | On the mic |
Paul Main is from DJ Dynamics who run the project. He says - " it's predominantly around DJ-ing and dance music; we're looking to educate the young people quite broadly in the club scene, making music, mixing music, scratching and all the transferable skills they'd need to survive in the dance music industry. They've got the skills now to take it to different places and one of the core outcomes I want is for them to confirm their believe in themselves because they have the talent and enthusiasm which will go hand in hand for any career." On the right track? But what do the lads themselves think? Well they all have huge respect for Paul, every single one of them told me that.. but what about the rest of it..does it come up to scratch? Sonny - It's all about having a laugh with the lads, it's good when you're on the stage and the crowd are rockin' it's about mixing your beats in time... Jason - I would recommend it 'cos Paul's a good teacher .. he listens to you and tells you what to do...  | | In the mix |
David (DJ Dicey) - I expected it to be loads of people messing 'round but it's not like that everyone is willing to learn. A few of the lads like to play the hardcore which is a lot faster and bang, bang, bang, I like to play the stuff they play in the clubs, I get an adrenalin buzz of it.. I'd like to be like Carl Cox living it large in Ibiza! Damien says he was a bit nervous in front of the other lads in case he did anything wrong. He's met loads of new mates and has a laugh. He says the mixing feels good and he's really enjoying it. His next step is to make a couple of tapes and take them to clubs. No doubt a copy of the DVD film made on the BBC Bus will help too. POPS stands for People, Opportunities, Places and Skills. If you're between 16 and 19, live on the Wirral and are unemployed you could get involved with this course or one of the others they run like Graffiti Art, Cookery, Hairdressing, IT, Football and Basic Skills. Ring 0151 638 9599 or 0775 677 2340 for more information. | 
