Innovative workshops for young people & adults in urban London

 

Promo Video

Click here to see our latest promotional video, filmed and edited by JAO!

About Us

The British DJ & MC Academy is a youth arts organisation based in North London.

In 2008, Krissy founded the DJ&MC Academy, driven by a passion to connect people through music. Pioneering a revolutionary mobile outreach van, she brought the rhythm directly to communities. In 2010, Krissy's appearance on Dragons Den became a platform to showcase her unwavering determination, setting the stage for sustained success.

Over 12 years, the academy has touched the lives of 100,000+ individuals across London, Wales, and Manchester. Through economic challenges and pandemic lockdowns, Krissy's journey from a teenage DJ to a youth hostel manager reflects her commitment to positive impact.

Krissy's global DJ career includes commanding sets from Miami to Ibiza and a decade at Kool FM. The academy's team, including former participants turned tutors, plays a pivotal role in its success. Beyond outreach projects, the academy excels in community events, cultivating a talented pool of DJs, producers, and artists.

Re-established as a Community Interest Company (CIC) in 2019, the academy secured funding, including support from Sadiq Khan's violence reduction project. Achievements extend to establishing radio stations, building studios, and nurturing artists under the Sonitus Music Group label. Notably, our artists have earned MOBO nominations, Sony ATV contracts, and over 100 million streams on mainstream radio.


The DJ&MC Academy stands as a testament to Krissy's vision and the transformative power of music.

Music unquestionably connects people from all walks of life. The work we do continues to leverage this virtue, delivering programmes to some of the most deprived parts of our city.
 
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Meet the Team

 

Krissy
CEO
 

Christian
Managing Director
 

Kyan
Social Media Manager
 

Debbie
Outreach & Engagement Coordinator
 

Maldi
Radio Presenter & Sound Engineer
 

Grace
Singing Tutor
 

Kareem
DJ, Producer & Mentor
 

Keon
DJ & Radio Presenter
 

DJ E Dott
DJ, Radio Presenter & Producer
 

Mariah
DJ, Radio Presenter & Tutor
 

Olona
Rapper & Producer
 

Will
Dancer
 

Bradley
DJ Tutor
 

Enzo
DJ Tutor
 

Oskar
DJ, Music Production & Presenting Tutor
 

Nathaniel
Lyricist & Production Tutor
 

Jay
Podcast & Music Project Assistant
 

Layla
Singer/Songwriter
 

Isaac
Beatboxer, Rapper & Songwriting Tutor
 

Lillie
Photographer
 

Irish
Young Ambassador
 

Dre
Young Ambassador
 

Kiki
Young Ambassador
 

Terence
Young Ambassador
 

Emmanuel
Young Ambassador
 

Amy
Young Ambassador & Singer
 

Aaliyah
Young Ambassador & DJ
 

Tilly
Volunteer

Trustees

Introducing the Academy's Trustees

 

Serge Wyett
Chairman
 

Kenny Barber
 

Grace Dixon
 

Cynthia Coburn
 

Christie Anayiotou

Case Studies

To name just a few young people who have come through the Academy and are now inspiring artists and tutors alike.


 

Kenny Barber

Kenny Barber also known as BXRBER embodies the transformative power of music, having begun his journey as a young adult assisting on workshops before blossoming into a celebrated artist and industry leader. With a background as a singer-songwriter signed to Sony ATV, BXRBER’s evolution from grass roots involvement to professional success is a testament to his unwavering dedication and passion for music.

Currently serving as the Relationship Manager at PRS for Music, BXRBER plays a pivotal role in supporting and promoting high-profile songwriters, producers, and music publishers. Additionally, as the Managing Director of Sonitus Music Group, he oversees a talented roster including R&B sensation Bellah and a diverse array of tour management projects. BXRBER's journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists and industry professionals alike, highlighting the boundless possibilities within the realm of music.

 


What People Say

The students thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to create and perform alongside the professionals. They really blossomed in confidence as the weeks went on. All students, irrespective of their needs, were able to participate and all of the DJ & MC Academy team were very gentle, calm and understanding with the students.
 
Laura Thistlethwaite, Vale School
DJMC has been absolutely incredible in their work with our special needs learners at West Lea School. Their passion, patience, and talent create a truly inclusive and engaging musical experience for everyone involved. Through music, they bring joy, confidence, and creativity to our learners, helping them express themselves in ways words often can't.

The energy and enthusiasm DJMC brings to each session are infectious, and the impact they have on our learners is profound. Whether it's through interactive DJing, beat-making, or simply creating a space where everyone feels heard and valued, DJMC makes a real difference.

We are so grateful for their dedication and the positive impact they have on our community. Thank you, DJMC, for your brilliant work!
 
Thespina Skarpellis, Head of School, West Lea School
I enjoyed the workshop as it helped me to express my emotions by playing music. It was so much fun. I really do hope we can work with them again. The staff were really welcoming and didn't make us feel bad for making mistakes. They taught us several times and were very patient with us.
 
TRM (pupil), Fern House School
I enjoyed using the microphones and decks to make a radio show. It was fun making our own beats.
 
JM (pupil), Fern House School
The British DJ & MC Academy delivered an excellent specialised course to young people as part of the Greenwich Summer University that was both lively and focused. I was particularly impressed by how the tutors and guest speakers not only provided expert advice and guidance in music and DJ skills but also provided an insight into future careers and improving aspirations that was delivered with enthusiasm and passion…I was also massively impressed by the resources and in particular the 4×4! Very cool!
 
Peter Webster, Greenwich Council

Click here to read more Testimonials.

Partners

Click here to see a complete list of our partners and clients.