In Partnership with
March 4, 2026
A new initiative designed to support the next generation of electronic music talent will debut at IMS Ibiza 2026, as the IMS Academy presented by Pete Tong DJ Academy and AlphaTheta launches within the Summit programme.
The initiative will create a dedicated space at IMS Ibiza where aspiring artists, producers and music creators can learn, connect and gain practical insight into building a career in electronic music.
Developed in collaboration between IMS, Pete Tong DJ Academy, and AlphaTheta, IMS Academy aims to make the industry more accessible by providing clearer pathways into electronic music.
At the centre of the initiative are two open calls designed to spotlight emerging talent and provide meaningful opportunities within the Summit:
→ Artist Showcase Opportunity – DJs can apply to perform at a Pete Tong DJ Academy showcase at Tantra Ibiza during IMS week.
→ Track Demo Review Session – Producers can submit unreleased music for a live demo feedback session at the Summit, with equipment provided by AlphaTheta. The demo session will allow selected artists to present their music directly to industry professionals and receive constructive feedback in a live setting.
Pete Tong DJ Academy CEO Alex Tripi explained the motivation behind the initiative:
“If we want the next generation to thrive, we cannot assume that inspiration alone is enough. We need clearer entry points, structured onboarding and spaces where ambition turns into actionable direction.”
Beyond the open calls, IMS Academy will be embedded within the wider IMS Ibiza programme, offering opportunities for emerging artists to connect with professionals across the global electronic music ecosystem.
Throughout the Summit, participants will have access to:
→ Mentorship opportunities with industry figures
→ Educational panels and conversations
→ Informal networking with artists, producers and executives
→ Hands-on interaction with new music technology
Pete Tong will be present throughout the Summit, engaging with attendees and supporting the programme.
Speaking about the concept behind the space, Tong said:
“I’ve always wanted a space at IMS where creators can interact in a relaxed way. It’s not about sitting down and listening to a lecture. It’s about touching the technology, talking to other producers about how records are made, playing music to each other and asking questions.”
He added:
“On the DJ Academy side it’s about coaching and advising people along their journey to enter our world, make an impact and turn that into a career.”
Technology partner AlphaTheta will support the initiative by providing the equipment used throughout the demo sessions and workshop environment.
This hands-on approach allows participants to explore new DJ and production tools while learning directly from professionals working across the global dance music industry.
The collaboration reflects IMS’s continued commitment to connecting culture, technology and education within electronic music.
Applications for IMS Academy presented by Pete Tong DJ Academy and AlphaTheta are now open. Artists and producers interested in participating in the showcase opportunity or demo review sessions can apply via the PTDJA website.
