Passion, dedication, and a love for music have driven Jack from building guitars at a young age to securing a place at the prestigious Abbey Road Institute.
We caught up with him to find out more about his music journey, the fantastic opportunity waiting for him once he’s completed his College course and his future ambitions in Music Production and mixing. Here’s what he had to say:
How did your journey into music begin?
I started playing guitar when I was seven. I was really into classic rock, especially Queen. I loved the fact that Brian May made his own guitar, and that inspired me to build my first guitar when I was ten.
So, you’ve built your own guitars? That’s amazing! How do you do it?
Yeah! I buy individual parts like the body and neck, and assemble everything myself, including painting and customising it exactly how I want it. I’ve even built replicas of famous guitars, like Van Halen’s Frankenstrat.
Did you always focus on playing instruments, or did you branch out into other areas of music?
At first, I was more focused on performance, playing guitar, bass, drums, and piano. But during lockdown, I started making beats and experimenting with production, which led me into mixing and producing music properly.
Was college the first time you started mixing and producing music seriously?
I had done bits and pieces before, but college was where I really started focusing on mixing and production in a professional setting. Having access to a studio really helped me develop my technical skills.
Do you prefer working solo or collaborating with others?
I’ve always been big on collaboration. Working with others helps you progress faster and build strong connections. Right from the start, I focused on networking and getting advice from different people.
Tell us about your next step – Abbey Road Institute. What made you apply?
My Tutor, Andy, told me and my parents about the course during parents evening, as that’s where he studied. He suggested I apply so I researched it more. It’s a one-year intensive course in Production and Sound Engineering. The hands-on experience is what really drew me in. You’re constantly working in the studio, learning different recording and mixing techniques from industry professionals.
How was the application process?
I had to submit four tracks, a CV, and a cover letter, then go through a one-hour interview split between the Course Director and the Campus Director. I was really nervous, but luckily we didn’t have to wait very long to hear. I found out I was accepted within an hour!
What do you hope to do after completing the course?
I want to start out producing for other artists and eventually transition into mixing music. I’ll still make my own music on the side, but long-term, mixing is where I see myself.
How did EKC Ashford College help prepare you for Abbey Road Institute?
The studio access has been a huge advantage. It’s helped me move beyond just using a computer and develop a deeper understanding of the technical aspects of music production. The Tutors have been really supportive, too. And it’s nice to work with other people, you can’t collaborate as easily when you’re working from home.
What excites you most about this next chapter?
The fact that the course is only a year long means I can get straight into the industry, unlike a three- or four-year University degree. I’m excited to learn in a professional studio environment every day and take my skills to the next level.
Any final thoughts on your journey so far?
College has been an incredible experience, and I’m looking forward to what’s next. I’ve grown so much during my time at Ashford, and I’m extremely thankful to all the staff who have encouraged me to follow this journey. My Tutors have always been helpful, supportive and always on hand to talk so I owe them a lot of gratitude.
We also caught up with Jack’s Tutor, Andy, who said: “It’s been a pleasure to see Jack’s development during his time with us.
“Jack instantly took to engineering and mixing, despite already being a highly skilled and accomplished guitarist. He has used his time with us to follow his interests, build his knowledge and skill and utilise our staff’s industry expertise in learning new concepts and ways of working,
“I am absolutely thrilled that Jack has received a place at Abbey Road Institute and that all our interview prep worked. It feels great to have studied there myself, then to have passed that knowledge on to Jack in inspiring him to follow suit. It’s a great course that will open so many doors and opportunities for him. I’m just glad that we’ve been a stepping stone at the start of his journey, and I sincerely wish him the very best.”
If Jack’s story has inspired you, why not consider beginning your journey into the Music industry with one of our courses.
Learn more or apply today.
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