Leeds College of Music students tell their stories
“Leeds has a thriving music scene and there are loads of eclectic venues where you can go to watch gigs, or perform yourself. One of the best is the Brudenell Social Club – a really unique retro venue for up and coming artists. Studying in Leeds is great too, and the staff at the College are always on hand, but the main lesson to be learnt is to get out there and find the contacts yourselves – Leeds is the best and most welcoming place to do this."
Dan McDougall – BA (Hons) Popular Music Studies
View an interview with Dan at the College's YouTube page
“The first time I visited Leeds I fell in love with the city, and getting in to study at Leeds College of Music was just the cherry on the top! Leeds is such a vibrant and diverse city, full of quirky and interesting places, which have inspired and influenced my music. During my time here I have met so many like-minded and talented musicians, who have become great friends and colleagues. Choose to study here, and I guarantee that you will have the time of your life.”
Grace Higgins – BA (Hons) Popular Music Studies alumnus
“Hyde Park Picture House is an amazing art house cinema in one of Leeds’ biggest student areas. The Picture House is a great inspiration for me as my course is largely centred on music for the moving image, and ultimately I’d love to score for films. Through my course I have had the opportunity to practice writing for many genres of moving images, and to work with key Industry Partners which has really helped to prepare us for future careers in music.” Lucy Thornton – Foundation Degree in Music and Sound Production for the Moving Image
View an interview with Lucy at the College's
YouTube page
“I chose to study at Leeds College of Music because my interests were spread over various musical genres. I was always passionate about playing the piano but it was only when I came to the College that I had the freedom to really explore my music across so many different genres. I regularly perform, study and frequent concerts of classical, contemporary, choral, chamber, popular and Indian music. This goes hand in hand with the city of Leeds, which features regular concerts in every style, every day of the week.”
Neil Balfour - BA (Hons) Music
View an interview with Neil at the College's YouTube page
“I think Leeds is a great place to study, especially if you’re a music student. There’s just so much going on and it’s pretty hard not to get involved. Whether it is through going to one of the huge variety of gigs on offer, or being inspired by just spending time in the city itself, there are countless opportunities to work and write music with the great people you find here.”
Marcus Clarke – Foundation Degree in Commercial Music Production and Recording/BA Music Production
“Being at Leeds College of Music has helped me to develop my production skills and get the most out of my music. The large network of musicians is great for collaboration, but I have also learned how to work independently as well. Where music happens for me is usually in my attic studio in my flat, which is full of things I’ve collected, and is a great spot to watch the world going by.”
Julian Muller – BA (Hons) Music Production alumnus
“The City of Leeds and its network of musicians supply an ongoing live music scene in venues ranging from the underground to the very high class. In addition to this, the College supports us through live performances of our own, providing opportunities to showcase ourselves both inside and outside the College. There is a real atmosphere of encouragement and inspiration that comes from the staff and fellow students.”
Eleanor Ripman – BA (Hons) Music
“Moving from Devon was a big change for me, but Leeds College of Music and the city were very welcoming. Studying at the College has given me the chance to really improve as a musician. I feel so at home here; music has always been such a big part of my life, and my time here has really inspired me to fulfil my desire of becoming a professional singer.”
Josie Smith – BA (Hons) Jazz
View an interview with Josie at the College's YouTube page
“Studying at Leeds College of Music has allowed me to gain invaluable tuition and guidance from some of the best musicians in the business today. It has given me the opportunity to work and socialise with like-minded individuals in a really exciting city. There is music around every corner in Leeds, and it has a thriving, unique music scene."
Henry Guy – BA (Hons) Jazz
