About ELEMENTS

ELEMENTS is a workshop series for intermediate to advanced-level DJs and producers in Detroit and Metro Detroit. The workshop is produced by Underground Music Academy and Paxahau with support from the Detroit Techno Foundation.

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The program started from a conversation between UMA and Paxahau about how to support artists working through the realities of creative development. ELEMENTS ‘26 is the program’s third year.

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ELEMENTS starts from the idea that no artist’s growth follows a straight line. Instead of a one-size-fits-all formula, each session builds the knowledge, discipline and practical skills artists need to make informed choices about their own path, with cultural context, intentionality, pride and consideration.

 

The Sessions

Week 1: Introduction to ELEMENTS + Artist Branding & Press Kit
Saturday, December 5 · 11:45 AM–3:30 PM EST
Guest Speakers: Barclay Crenshaw (Claude VonStroke) and Aundy Crenshaw
Covers the ELEMENTS format, goal-setting and personal branding: building your brand, creating a professional press kit, and understanding the business and management side of an artist’s career.

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Week 2: DJ Essentials
Saturday, December 12 · 11:45 AM–2:30 PM EST
Guest Speaker: Rimarkable
Covers pitching yourself to promoters, preparing for gigs, maintaining professionalism, and the difference between DJing and live performance.

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Week 3: Mixtape Essentials
Saturday, December 19 · 11:45 AM–2:30 PM EST
Guest Speaker: Craig Gonzalez
Covers crafting and structuring your mix, honing your DJ skills, and preparing a polished mixtape for review.

All sessions take place in person at Underground Music Academy in Detroit, Michigan.

 

The Final Mixtape

Each participant finishes ELEMENTS with a 45–60 minute mixtape, due Monday, December 21 at 11:59 PM EST. The mixtape shows each artist’s technical ability, storytelling and point of view. There is no prize for this course, and UMA’s public showcase is not affiliated with ELEMENTS.

 

Who Should Apply

 

ELEMENTS is for self-motivated, independent and proactive artists. To apply, you must be:

• An intermediate to advanced-level DJ and/or producer

• Ages 18 or older

• A resident of Detroit or Metro Detroit (US residents only)

• Able to attend all three sessions in person

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If selected, you commit to:

• Arriving 15 minutes before each session starts

• At least 12 hours of work outside class to develop your mixes and press kit and to study class materials

• Submitting your final mixtape by Monday, December 21

A limited number of artists will be selected.