Music Technology
students link with the Music Industry
BTEC and A Level Music Technology students recently visited
the Music Production Show held at the Emirates Stadium in London. This yearly
event showcases everything to do with music production from the technology to
the people who create some of the best music in the world. The students had
access to a vast range of new studio and computer equipment to try out as well
as seminars by famous music producers and experts in the field. Yamaha,
Steinberg and Novation were among the companies in attendance alongside the
Music Producers Guild who have members including Rick Ruben, Brian Eno and Tony
Visconti. Highlights of the show included the seminars from Paul White of Sound
on Sound Magazine and music production tips from ‘erb N dub’ and DJ ‘Break’.
Course manager for music technology Adrian Smith said that
it was great to see the students engaging and making the most of the event.
There were opportunities to speak directly to large and small audio companies
as well as famous and upcoming producers. This event is part of our on-going
focus on the career paths within the music industry. Future events this year include visits to the
02 Academy in Bristol, Chemical Records, Real World studios, Bath Spa
University and the ‘Music 360’ show in April. We are also planning music
careers events at Strode College later in 2014.
Music Technology students from Strode College visited the O2
Academy in Bristol on Monday 3rd Feb for a technical tour of the venue. The sound and
lighting manager Matt Royston-Bishop took the group backstage, on stage and
behind the main mixing console. He explained the features of the digital desks
and how the sound is sent all around the venue from the stage. This is part of
a wider focus on building awareness and creating links in the local music
industry. Music tutor Adrian Smith commented “ We have now established a link
with the O2 in Bristol and built this visit into the live sound and technical
stage management areas of the course.” 
Over the years a number of successful students have gained work
in the live sound industry. Dave Perry works at the Octagon Theatre in Yeovil, Ollie
Chamberlain works for Vortex Events Ltd and Bruce MacDonald who is
currently touring the UK as sound engineer for an up and coming metal band. He
is also studying for a Foundation Degree in Live Sound down in Plymouth. 
Sofie Hunter and Peter Waite are current students who have already gained work
experience in live sound while studying the BTEC in Music Technology. They are
both doing work experience with local companies and venues including Strode Theatre. 
