Mixing Records, Not Substances: The DJs Supporting Recovery in Leeds
People in recovery across Leeds are discovering a new way to reconnect with themselves and others by learning to DJ.
After taking her first DJ lesson in 2025, Zoie Murch realised how powerful music could be in supporting recovery. That moment inspired her to launch Music is Medicine, a programme that helps people in recovery learn to mix music, build confidence, and rediscover community. Its message is simple:
“Using music therapy to support recovery, build confidence, and restore community.”
Reflecting on her own experience, Zoie said: “Mixing one song into another gave me a better feeling than any drink or drug ever did. I realised it could help others too, by potentially filling a gap in their lives when they stopped using substances.”
With funding from Pirate Studios’ Studios for All Fund and support from Small Green Shoots, backed by The National Lottery Community Fund, Music is Medicine offers weekly one-to-one DJ training delivered by experienced professional DJs at Pirate Studios. Many of these DJs have been volunteering their time to support the learners.
The first two trainee DJs are now nearing the end of their programme, and four new participants will begin their journey at the end of March. Zoie has ambitious plans to grow the project and is determined to keep it sustainable.
Zoie with Beth
Bethany, who has been supported by the programme, said: “Since starting Music is Medicine my sense of self-belief and confidence has grown. It has given me something to look forward to each week and distracted me from drinking. It has also given the confidence to apply for a college course as I know I will commit and attend the course”.
Climbing for a Cause
This July, Zoie and her friends will scale Mount Teide in Tenerife, the third biggest volcano in the world, to raise funds for Music is Medicine and its expanding work. There is still space for others to take part, with seven slots available.
Zoie said: “People who’ve taken part in the programme tell us how rewarding and uplifting it’s been. Now that they’ve developed their skills, we’re looking for opportunities for them to DJ at real events.”
Expanding Opportunities for Participants
Music is Medicine continues to build new partnerships that will give learners real platforms to perform:
DJ Socials & Open Decks in Leeds
Zoie is collaborating with Our House, Your House to bring a DJ social event to Leeds: a Sunday Open Decks session in a safe, drug- and alcohol-free environment. The aim is to help people build confidence while practising in front of others.
Sober Raves This Summer
Discussions are underway with sober rave organisers, where participants will have opportunities to showcase their new skills in live settings.
London All Connect Event – 16 May
Zoie and programme participants have also been invited to attend the All Connect event at Rich Mix in London on Saturday 16 May. They will take part in a masterclass and network with others in the creative community.
Radio Opportunities
Music is Medicine is also in talks with LDC Radio Leeds, with plans for a dedicated slot where clients can perform mixes and discuss their journeys overcoming drugs and alcohol.
Future Podcast
Zoie also hopes to launch a podcast exploring themes around drug and alcohol recovery, giving a platform to real stories and lived experiences.
Support Music is Medicine
To support Zoie’s Mount Teide fundraising challenge, you can donate on the Music is Medicine Justgiving page.
Find out more about the project on the Music is Medicine website.