Please note this season of classes is full. More coming fall 2024!

This hands-on program is intended for adults whose genders are under-represented in the DJ world, be it cis or trans women, 2-Spirit or non-binary folks, and so on. The course welcomes anyone who self-identifies as part of this wide spectrum of gender expression.

Photo: Bryce Creasey

Beginner level course

In 2012, Winnipeg’s Mama Cutsworth founded her DJ Academy, a welcoming space that taught students the skills and confidence it takes to become a professional DJ. Since then, the Academy has seen over 120 students graduate, with many alumni going on to contribute to Canada’s DJ and music scene in meaningful ways. Like many programs, the DJ Academy was on hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Now, the Manitoba Conservatory of Music & Arts has partnered with Mama Cutsworth to bring her DJ Academy back, starting with a beginner course this spring! Students will learn the basics of scratching, beat matching songs, stage presence, the history of DJing, and more. No experience or equipment is required, just a passion for music!

About Mama Cutsworth:
Sarah Michaelson – a.k.a. Mama Cutsworth – has been a DJ, event producer and music educator since 2004. Her work has taken her to stages across the world and her teaching has ranged from after-school DJ classes for youth to music workshops for actors at theatre festivals in Europe. Sarah has been nominated for both the prestigious “Future Leaders of Manitoba” Award and the Winnipeg Arts Council’s “Making A Mark” Award for her ground-breaking work with the DJ Academy.