"The staff and students I met at my audition were enthusiastic and approachable. After seeing all the great facilities the conservatoire has to offer, Leeds felt like the right place for me."
Megan Burridge: BA (Hons) Classical
Meet Megan Burridge, a BA (Hons) Classical Student in her first year at Leeds Conservatoire. Megan also studied on our Foundation Year programme. She plays the double bass and bass guitar.
We caught up with Megan about her time at Leeds Conservatoire so far, and she shared her advice for prospective students.
Hi Megan - Has anything been totally different to what you expected when you started at Leeds Conservatoire?
I didn't expect the conservatoire to have such good links with the wider community. Our partnership with Opera North offers many great opportunities for classical students.
Why did you choose Leeds Conservatoire?
The staff and students I met at my audition were enthusiastic and approachable. After seeing all the great facilities the conservatoire has to offer, Leeds felt like the right place for me.
Is there anything that has really made you push yourself as a musician?
Having a great teacher from Opera North has helped me push myself. It's been really inspiring to see her play in concerts.
What was the best piece of advice you've had since starting at Leeds Conservatoire?
Since starting at Leeds Conservatoire, the best advice I have been given is that you can't do something twice if you haven't done it once!
What has been your favourite moment at Leeds Conservatoire so far?
My favourite moment at Leeds Conservatoire so far has to be playing for the student union's opera 'Dido and Aeneas'. Playing great music with friends was a lot of fun, and I can't wait to play in this year's production of 'The Medium'!
What sort of accommodation are you living in? What advice would you give to new students about accommodation?
I'm currently living in a house in Headingly with two other music students. My advice for new students would be to not leave house hunting too late in the year to avoid missing the best locations.
What do you get up to outside of studying?
Outside of studying, I am involved in the student union's concert band, which takes place every Friday night. They're a lovely bunch of people, and the music we play ranges from The Incredibles to Holst's suites, so there is something to suit everyone!
What is the best thing about living and studying in Leeds?
The best thing about living and studying in Leeds is that the city has lots to offer. You can enjoy a great night out or a walk along the River Aire. There is something to suit everyone's weekend plans!
What advice would you give to a prospective student thinking of applying to your course?
My advice to a prospective student thinking of applying to Leeds conservatoire would be to go for it! The conservatoire and city are great places and could be the right place for you!
How would you describe your experience at Leeds Conservatoire so far in three words?
Exciting. Fun. Rewarding.
How has your Foundation Year helped to set you up for your next step?
My foundation year allowed me to find my feet in a new city a long way from home. It also helped me understand the foundations of my music theory before I got stuck in the first year of my degree. I'm very glad I did it!
What advice would you give to a student who was unsure about whether to do a Foundation Year?
If you're unsure, an extra year at the conservatoire can help you confirm it is the right choice for you. It also means an extra year of conservatoire education and more one-to-one teaching from some of the best musicians in the country.
Do you want to be featured in a student profile? Email marketing@lcm.ac.uk for more information.
