All welcome, pre-registration required

Join us for an exciting and immersive hands-on music production workshop led by DJ and music producer PHO, an official mentor from Teenage Engineering. This session offers a unique opportunity to explore the creative possibilities of Pocket Operators—compact, powerful and endlessly fun music-making devices that redefine how and where music is made.

During the workshop, PHO will guide participants through the basics of beat-making, sound design and production using these tools. Whether you’re completely new to music production or already experimenting with your own tracks, this session is designed to spark creativity, enhance your technical skills and encourage spontaneous music-making on the go.

Discover how these pocket-sized instruments can unlock fresh ideas and help you express your sonic identity—anytime, anywhere. No prior experience is necessary; just your curiosity and a willingness to play!

This programme is preceded by an Assembly-led exhibition tour of the 2025 Youth Takeover. Participants are encouraged to attend this tour to learn more about the Takeover themes and exhibited works. Register your spot through the above link.

This programme is organised in collaboration with Vinyl Souk as part of the 2025 Youth Takeover.

Besides capitalising his name, PHO has capitalised on endless musical encounters between his native Colombia, Japan and the UAE. Keen on harmony-making, turntablism and scratching, he is an active selector, vinylist and overall vibesetter. His DJ journey has led him to be an ambassador for Pioneer DJ, Ableton and Teenage Engineering, as well as expanded his practice towards sound-based commissions in contemporary art.  A two-time Red Bull Thre3style world finalist and global top 40 turntablist, PHO has remixed sound by Natalia Lafourcade, DJ Shadow and Little Dragon, as well as collaborated with Maloka Interactive Museum (Colombia), Playlist Retreat (USA), In Place of War (UK), Sound and Fiction (Bahrain), ITHRA (Saudi Arabia), EXPO2020 and Art Jameel (UAE). PHO is currently developing his Conductive Music project working with metals. Fully unrelated to the soup, PHO’s melodic character goes by Leonardo Rojas during the day.

Vinyl Souk is the UAE’s leading community-driven platform promoting alternative music, vinyl culture, and creative arts. Known for innovative events that blend live music, educational experiences, and vibrant marketplaces, Vinyl Souk champions regional artists, diverse subcultures, and grassroots creativity.