Saffron Music, a femme-focused collective and label, has recently launched a new vinyl-focused series of online DJ workshops under the banner “Art of Analogue”. The programme, which focuses on teaching women, non-binary, trans and gender non-conforming individuals the technicalities and creative possibilities of vinyl DJing, comes as a continuation of Saffron’s Mix Nights Online, aiming to address the gender imbalance within the music industry.
Partnering with Audio-Technica, the three-part series will consist of sessions curated by different hosts, individually structured to contain a distinct focus- while providing attendees with the opportunity to remotely connect via Zoom. “We are excited to partner with Saffron on their Mix Nights Online programme as we both share a commitment to providing a platform for underrepresented groups in music”, reported Audio-Technica’s European Marketing Manager, Sarah Yule.
Originally launched in 2014 by Laura Lewis-Paul and Yasmin Ali, Saffron aims to create a greater sense of inclusivity within the UK’s electronic music scene, striving to encourage diversity and gender equality through its various programmes. Their Art of Analogue series aims to bring attention to and nurture the unique advantages of traditional vinyl disc jockeying practices which have stemmed from a current shift towards a digital approach.
With the gender divide within electronic music ongoing and a lack of dedicated spaces creating a sense of inclusivity for women, trans, non-binary and those who conform outside of the traditional gender binary, programmes such as Art of Analogue, while somewhat niche, showcase a drive and commitment from the industry’s efforts to make electronic music a more inclusive space. As reported earlier in the year, the UK government has pledged half a million pounds to be split between 10 organisations, with more than half of the money being directed towards gender equality efforts in music, underlining the broader recognition of the gender imbalance within the music industry
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