| ABOUT US |
| SCHOOLS |
| MUSIC COURSES |
| TUTORS |
| FACILITIES |
| NEWS |
| OUR STUDENTS |
| PODCASTS |
| INDUSTRY NETWORK |
| SPECIAL GUESTS |
| HOW DO I...? |
| PARENT ZONE |
| ACM FRANCHISES |
| ACM INTERNATIONAL |
| OUR PARTNERS |
Home 
NEWS
Despite the cold December weather and lure of Christmas shopping, ACM was pleased to welcome hundreds of people to the last Open Day for 2011.
Over the course of the four hour event, visitors caught a glimpse of what studying at ACM is about and experienced the sights and sounds of our state-of-the-art facilities.
In addition to meeting a host of ACM's music faculty, visitors were able to discuss the ins and outs of the course programmes and enjoy a series of presentations and very special live tutor performances.
These were just some of the comments that visitors shared with us throughout their tour of ACM:
"So good, it makes sliced bread look old school."
"Great facilities and focus on students."
"Amazing!!"
"Can't wait to come next year!"
"Awesome doesn't even describe it!!!"
If you weren't able to make ACM's Open Day then don't worry. You can still download all the course information right here. In the meantime if you have any questions, comments or simply want to discuss your options then feel free to get in touch with our Admissions Team via email at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
ACM will be closed for the Christmas and New Year holiday from Friday 23rd December to Tuesday 3rd January 2012.
If you're worried you've missed out joining one of ACM's many part time courses, then worry not! All our part time course start in the second week of January 2012 so you still have plenty of time to apply... Why not give a late Christmas Gift to that musician in your life?
Monday 21st November will be remembered by many as the day that Chad Smith swung by ACM for an impromptu visit.
ACM students and staff poured into the Rodboro Building to catch a glimpse of one quarter of The Red Hot Chili Peppers.
During his three hour stay, Chad shared some of his near 40 years drumming experience teaching ACM's students calypso rhythms and the history of shuffle beats from the great Blues drummer Earl Palmer. Speaking his drumming influences Chad emphasised the importance of appreciating a wide variety of music beyond just rock and metal;
"I wish at a younger age I'd been more well-rounded - listened to other music… it might not be the kind of stuff you listen to on your iPod, but it's great for drumming… be open to all different kinds of good music."
Chad went onto to share his thoughts on ACM and why it's so different to so many of the other music schools;
"This school (ACM) is really something rather special because there's not a lot of these kinds of environments…this is your chance and you're here because you love music and to get better at your craft."
Between his class room antics and teaching, Chad met hundreds of ACM students, posing for photographs, signing all manner of items and taking time to meet and greet each one. Chad then moved onto the Roger Taylor Zildjian Drum Studio where he took some time out to absorb some of the Queen memorabilia and reminisce of his time on tour and his previous visit to ACM.
Chad rounded off his visit with an LPP lesson that none of the ACM students will forget in a hurry by accompanying them in several renditions of AC/DC’s 'Back in Black'. Safe to say this is one visit ACM will not forget in a hurry!
Follow Chad Smith online via Twitter and Facebook.
Three ACM Alumni featured in last Saturday’s X Factor live show performing alongside 2011 hopeful Sami Brooks. Natalie Palmer, Senab Adekunle and Imogen Harfleet were hired for the live performance on the recommendation of ACM’s Business and Artist Development Centre (BDC).
View Sami Brooks’ X Factor Performance
ACM has strong links with X Factor as one of the Musical Directors is also ACM Alumni. The musical directors arrange all the additional musicians who back the contestants and are frequent visitors to ACM.
Keep an eye out every week to see if you can spot any other ACMers!
ACM is extremely proud to announce the installation of a ground-breaking 24 channel SSL Duality Console in the new Audio Production studio.
The new console from the legendary international firm SSL will prove to be of invaluable worth to students on Music Production, Creative Sound Design and Radio Broadcasting courses. Amongst its impressive specifications the SSL Duality Console boasts 24 analogue channels, full DAW controls, switchable classic E & G series EQ and 5.1 surround sound, plus full automation and total recall.
Commenting on the new console, ACM’s Head of Audio Production Antony Greaves said, "All the staff and students at ACM are very excited about the new studio, and to be working with such a legendary brand as SSL. Our new flagship studio will be a state of the art teaching facility as well as being available for ACM students to use for their own projects. Personally, I can't wait to get my hands on that SSL!"
Speaking about their association with ACM, Dan Duffell of SSL says, “It is a great pleasure to be working with ACM. They have an enviable reputation for excellence that has grown out of providing first rate teaching facilities and great teaching and support stuff. ACM are the first UK educators to install Duality and we are confident that it will prove as successful for them as it has for so many of our clients in the US and around the world.”
This alliance with SSL is a further enhancement to the field-leading music education model provided by the Academy of Contemporary Music.
Congratulations to ACM 2nd year Degree student Alistair Lawrie for becoming the ACM 2011 Mix Master!
The annual competition entitled 'Mix Master', in which ACM 2nd year degree students have the opportunity to showcase their professional mixes to a judging panel, drew to its conclusion recently.
Alistair's mix was selected and chosen as the most professional and polished track, and was presented with the Mix Master plaque by Audio Production School Manager, Antony Greaves.
Congratulations to ACM Tour Production and Management student Josh De Marcos for successfully gaining a backline tech placement on the recent Katy B tour.
Katy B's profile as an artist has an artist has been steadily increasing within the UK, after her debut appearance of Magnetic Man's smash Dubstep single Perfect Stranger.
Since then, Katy has had some huge tunes hit the charts, including 'Lights On feat. Ms. Dynamite', 'Louder' and the brand new single 'Broken Record'.
The 'On A Mission tour' is scheduled to run until November and promises to be a killer!
ACM was represented in full force at the recent Capital FM Summertime Ball, held at Wembley stadium.
US superstar Cee Lo Green was joined on stage by former ACM students Gemma Hill (drums) and Meldra Guza (guitar) for a fantastic performance of his smash hit "Bright Lights Bigger City".
Since leaving ACM in 2004, Gemma has forged a fantastic career as a professional drummer. A career that includes drumming duties for indie electro pop sensation 'Robots in Disguise', live sessions for rising star Alistar Griffin and a whole host of other acts..
Check out Cee Lo's performance right here
The ACM Songwriting Competition 2011 saw some of the Academy's brightest stars take to the stage and perform original material in front of a capacity audience at Guildford's leading creative arts venue, The Boileroom.
thre were performances of songs on the night by George Peploe, Charlotte Olivia, Tommy Monroe, Josh Edwards, Grainne O, Martha Paton, Moteh Parrott, Karina Vismara, Hannah Perrin, Gary Kingham (Mellor) and also a DJ set from Zomboy
Winning the competition was ACM degree student Karina Vismara, with a song entitled 'Only You' which fought off hundreds of other entries to claim the prize. Chosen by Warner Chappell Music, Karina netted £500 of Andertons music store vouchers.
“The final 10 songs were all of high quality, but there were 3 or 4 of true potential. It was unfortunate only one writer could win, but as a competition it certainly helped highlight the talent pool the ACM have amassed & developed.”
Ryan Farley, Warner Chappell
ACM competition winner Billy Mullen is now the proud owner of a new Squier Strat guitar, signed by Ace from legendary rock band Skunk Anansie, as well as other Skunk Anansie goodies from their last tour. These great prizes come from Ace's recent visit to ACM, where he met with full-time students; giving masterclasses on music industry tips, performance and production skills.
Billy attended the Open Day in March with friends of which he currently plays in a band with, and entered the competition with the other 500 people who entered the building to see the amazing facilities of ACM. Why not visit our next Open Day on Saturday 16th July (11am-3pm) to see what all the fuss is about...
This exciting new opportunity is made available to all new applicants. Applicants must be EU based students, aged 16 – 18 years old (as at 31st August 2011).
The ACM Diploma scholarships are available for Performance and Audio Production Diploma courses (BTEC Level 3 Diploma) commencing September 2011. Complete the normal application form plus answer additional question;
In 150 words please explain why you feel you should qualify for the ACM Diploma Scholarship....
Please feel free to include any other relevant evidence that you feel would support your application.
Places are available on all Performance (guitar, bass, drum and vocal) and Audio Production Diploma courses. Applications should be submitted as soon as possible. Results of the successful applicants will be released in due course and subsequently contracts will be sent out.
ACM is passionate about contemporary music education. The ACM Diploma Scholarship aims to open up opportunities to students who have a desire to further their musical education.
ACM reserves the right to refuse any application that it feels is not suitable.
All round top-bloke, chatterbox and guitar-hero Ace, from Skunk Anansie, dropped into ACM this week for a whole host of masterclasses covering performance, production and the music industry. Ace even took the time to cover some tutorials with students and impart his vast knowledge about the music business.
Ace talked at length to performance students about his experiences being in a band, sell-out tours, the ins and outs of songwriting and even asked some students up on stage to work on some riffs and talk through band dynamics.
There followed a great session in teaching control where a mix of music production and guitar students went through the processes of production from recording guitars - layering and how to get a great sound - to choosing the right equipment and even budget guidelines.
Finally Ace guested in the Degree Business Psychology lecture that went deep into the processes of being an artist, discussing such topics as - what the 'creative process' is for an artist and how to reconcile creativity/art with business/industry among others.
Ace said, “Calling into ACM is always a rewarding and fulfilling experience. The students are receptive, intelligent and dedicated to their art. Classes are fun as well as educational, and the pupils welcoming atmosphere make any visit a pleasure.”
Guitar School Manager Matt Haslett added, "It's fantastic for the students when someone of Ace's calibre and experience is willing to come in and share his insight and knowledge with the next generation of players and artists. It's these extra opportunities which create such a positive atmosphere and ultimately make ACM such a unique environment."
Thanks Ace. You were, er, Ace!
ACM Bass graduate Ted Dwane, of English folk-rock band Mumford & Sons, collected a Brit Award on 15th February when the band’s debut album ‘Sigh No More’ (Island Records) was awarded Mastercard Best British Album Of The Year.
The band was nominated for 3 Brit Awards in total and performed live on the night. The news follows a critically acclaimed live performance at the US Grammys in early February, where the band earned two Grammy Award nominations for Best New Artist and Best Rock Song.
ACM’s Ian Edwards said, “ACM is extremely proud of Ted and the Mumford boys’ achievements this year. This Brit Award represents all their hard work.”
Mumford & Sons join previous ACM Brit Award nominees, such as Newton Faulkner nominated for Best Male Solo Artist in 2008, Amelle Berrabah of Sugababes nominated for Best British Single in 2006, and Camilla Kerslake nominated for Album of the Year in 2010 at the Classical Brit Awards.
Following on from his hugely successful column in Drummer magazine, worldwide clinics and appearances with prog-rock supremos Frost, International Roland V-Drums clinician Craig Blundell will be leading students through his unique blend of extreme coordination studies and the integration of electronics into modern drumming styles. Designed to push drummers out of their comfort zone and address their weaknesses, this course is not to be missed.
"This course is going to really push players out of their own day to day comfort zone and will push them to the maximum. Over the 10 weeks, it will irreversibly change their practice routine and set targets for the following week. Players will feel the benefits almost instantly with their own co-ordination boundaries."
Nu Skool Drumming with Craig Blundell is running as a ACM Plus Part Time course on Tuesday nights from 7-8.30pm starting this April. So get in touch if you wanna push your drumstickery to the maximiser. Totally pounding, yeah!
A big welcome back to drum legend Bill Bruford. Bill has once again returned to ACM to lend his expert tutelage to our MA Contemporary Music Performance students. Bill has a career that spans more than five decades, including defining moments with Yes and King Crimson. It's a true honour and a treat to have Bill back at ACM. We salute you, sir.
Oh, yeah. He also has a book available. It's called Bill Bruford: The Autobiography. Yours for only £14.95 and worth every penny, but don't take my word for it, here's Bill to sell, I mean, tell you more...
On Thursday 16th December, ACM invited 4 schools to attend a day of fun, music and learning! 20 students from each school attended and chose a discipline for the day.
All the attending students had workshops in their separate disciplines. Later, the Performance students formed bands whilst the Production students moved into the studio. After lunch students were lucky enough to get a live performance from the tutor band and student band Free Peace (pictured above).
"Our students really enjoyed the day and apparently are all raving about ACM! Many thanks to you and Amy for organising the event." Stephanie, Bishop David Brown School
The music industry's leading publication MusicWeek swelled with the brimming success of ACM emerging artists this week. The magazine's 'Music Week Presents' feature of upcoming artists and sounds saw reviews from artists such as Reading based quartet Films of Colour for their highly anticipated release of their latest single 'Actions'.
Also up for review was ACM higher diploma graduate and outstanding achievement winner Jazz Morley with her latest offering 'Disconnected'. Next up was the ultra talented Deville with their latest single entitled 'Lips', and finally, the awesome Arcady Bliss with the release of 'Feeling the Glow'.
If you'd like to see the article as a pdf click here or go to www.musicweek.com for the full story.
Congratulations to all artists for featuring in such a respected publication. Check out their myspace sites:
ACM hereby announces this years 'Outstanding Achievement Award' winners. What an amazing job you guys did throughout the year. We hail and salute you all!
Stephen Bramwell - Guitar Degree
Robert O'Murphy - Guitar Higher Diploma
Mikayl Dawood - Guitar Diploma
Sam Rommer / Simon Smith - Bass Degree
Matthew Aston - Bass Higher Diploma
Benjamin Golding - Bass Diploma
Robert Parsons - Drum Degree
Alessio Barelli - Drum Higher Diploma
Samuel Wade - Drum Diploma
Abi Evans - Vocal Degree (pictured above)
Jasmine Morley - Vocal Higher Diploma
Toni Wiseman - Vocal Diploma
Gianmarco Giuliani - Music Production Degree
Kriss Baird - Music Production Higher Diploma
Eve Fairley-Chickwe - Music Production Diploma
Daniel Owen - Creative Sound Design Degree
Michael Stead - Music Business Degree
Matthew Monck - Music Business Higher Diploma
Anastasia Gerasimchuk - Coutts Award
Marie-Lou Quivogne - CATO Diploma
A massive congratulations to our Award Winners and all our students for a fantastic year at ACM.
Singer Songwriter Jazz Morley is going 'On Tour' this February and she would like to visit your school for a live performance and to talk about Music Industry Education – in association with Academy of Contemporary Music.
She will discuss her experiences as both an emerging artist and ACM student. There will be a Q&A session where you can ask her questions about her material, ACM courses, what it was like to study at ACM and how ACM link with the Music Industry.
Jazz Morley was recently presented with our coveted “Outstanding Vocalist” Award and since graduating is being coached by David Grant (vocal coach on Fame Academy and Pop Idol as well as to artists such as Take That, Melanie C, Lemar and Will Young).
“With references to Dusty via Duffy, this budding singer is well worth keeping an ear on.”
Phil Jackson, BBC Introducing:The South
“‘Disconnected’ is absolutely cracking – she’s wonderful!”
Melita Dennett, BBC Introducing:The South
“That is the a-mazing Jazz Morley – that’s beautiful Jazz! I’ve heard so much about you, everybody is raving about you!”
Sally Taylor, BBC Radio Solent
“She has a lovely tone to her voice, and there’s more than a hint of Jennifer Rush’s Power of Love to this song, which should please a lot of folk.”
Gill Mills, MySpace (Best of MySpace 104)
This opportunity is a great way to promote an active interest in contemporary music in your school, encouraging other students to begin playing and performing music. Jazz's performance can be incorporated into assemblies, music classes or other curricular events. Tell your music teacher about this fantastic opportunity and aks them to get in touch.
Bookings are going fast! So, to get involved this February please email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it (ACM’s ‘On Tour’ Manager) and This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it (Jazz’s Manager)
Don't miss out!
ACM Freshers week went off (like a rocket, yeah)! 6 gigs in one week with over 700 Freshers enjoying up and coming bands from ACM and beyond...
The ACM Livelink Launch was the biggest party of the week with 3 simultaneous gigs happening across Guildford at local venues including...
@ The Boileroom
Freshers were treated to block-rocking sets from Free Peace (pictured left), Brother and Bones, Finding Sound and Chris Cape. Fresh.
@ The Star
Felix Fables, Dede Davi, Van Dave and Jazz Morley enticed this years students with their unique blend of folky-acoustic stylings and flava's. Smooth.
@ Backline
Kicking on into the night were Films of Colour, Arcady Bliss, Charming Thieves plus DJ sets from DJ Jon1st and Dekko. Brap!
Jam Night was also a huge sell-out success; watching new students jamming with the house band Free Peace was awesome-cool. Tutor Night also went down a storm, with ACM legends playing their hearts out for the new crowd.
The Boileroom hosted an awesome dubstep night with ACM Battle of the Bands winners Coda (pictured top) and Notting Hill Carnival's biggest players Channel One Soundsystem. Overall an excellent start to what is going to be an exciting year.
"ACM Fresher's Week was a great chance to introduce all that the area has to offer to new and returning students. As the hub of Guildford's live music scene, The Boileroom has been packed every night with a whole variety of events."
The Boileroom, Guildford
Just finished your A-levels and looking to study a Degree? Interested in looking at an alternative study path? Love music?
Going straight in to a 3 year degree is not the only option when you have finished your A levels or BTEC. The ACM Higher Diploma is a progression to Level 4, which means you can get access to student funding and a fully recognised qualification. These one year courses are available in Performance, Music Production and Music Business (Music Media and Rights), and give students priority access to our 2-year accelerated Degree (subject to qualification criteria). Act now and secure your future with a course at ACM, world leaders in Music Industry education.
Click here for more information.
The ACM Songwriting Competition 2010 saw some of the Academy's brightest stars take to the stage and perform original material in front of a capacity audience at Guildford's leading creative arts venue, The Boileroom.
Winning the competition was ACM degree student Tommy Monroe and his band The Charming Thieves, with an acoustic version of a song entitled 'Control' which fought off 200 other entries to claim the prize. Chosen by Rich Holley of Peer Music Publishing, the band netted £500 of music store vouchers and a 2 day recording session at Matrix Studios in London. Rich said, "It was a tough decision as as there are some fantastic acts here tonight."
In addition to the event, songwriters across the UK will soon benefit from a brand new Songwriting course due to commence this September. Run as a part time Industry Qualification, the course will serve as a gateway for artists and writers wishing to develop their writing technique, offering yet another way of building a career within today's thriving music industry.
You can watch the winning performance on ACM TV
ACM Industry Partners and world renowned manufacturers Yamaha have launched a brand new website Yamaha Download. The site is an interactive feast of tutorials, features, interviews, podcasts and more. So click the link below and get fully equipped to play! Yamaha are also the chief sponsor for the up-and-coming ACM Keyboard School that launches this September. Safe.
Yamaha Download Website
After their success on BBC One entertainment show ‘Last Choir Standing’, the ACM Gospel Choir is still performing with the big leagues. The choir feature on chart topper Gabriella Cilmi’s new album, ‘Ten’, on the track ‘Let Me Know’.
Other recent appearances have included ITV’s ‘Ultimate Movie Toons’, performing alongside Michael Ball, and it seems there’s no stopping them.
For a sneak preview at the recording of ‘Let Me Know’ by Gabriella Cilmi featuring the ACM Gospel Choir, click below:
ACM Vocal and business student Camilla Kerslake has been chosen as the voice of Christmas this year by supermarket giant Waitrose for their Christmas 2009 campaign.
As part of a deal to promote her self titled new album, the TV ad campaign, developed by ad agency MCBD, features Camilla's version of the hymn "How Can I Keep From Singing?".
To tie in with the partnership with the food store, Camilla will also be performing at a number of Waitrose-backed food events including the Taste of Christmas Festival, while her album will be promoted in-store.
Camilla shot to success when Take That frontman Gary Barlow signed the star to his new label Future Records.
As a final 'Horah' before the end of the 2011 term, ACM invited professional bass guitarist Rufus Philpott to host a bass masterclass for ACM students.
Philpott, who has a performance and recording portfolio that includes the likes of Allan Holdsworth, Tony MacAlpne, Scott Henderson, Jeff Golub, Greg Howe and Mitch Forman was only too happy to share his experiences and knowledge with ACM students.
"Rufus' bass master class was exactly what it said on the tin- an in-depth analysis of the role of the modern electric bass player, which included a detailed breakdown of functional supportive bass playing all the way up to high-octane soloing concepts. One of the best master classes I have seen.”
Joe Hubbard - Senior Lecturer at ACM
We'd like to thank Rufus for taking the time to visit ACM and look forward to welcoming him back to ACM in the near future.
For more information on Rufus Philpott visit his website.
ACM is proud to announce the the launch of ACM Regional South Coast, its very first regional centre in the UK, in January 2012.
Located in Bournemouth, ACM Regional South Coast will take over from The Music Factory, which has been providing music education in the area since 2004. ACM Regional is the Academy’s way of ensuring more people have access to the ACM experience, but at a location more convenient to them. Full and part-time courses will be delivered within these Regional Centres utilising ACM curriculum and methodology.
Approved Regional Centres will teach up to and including Further Education study. Each course has been designed to progress naturally through to a Higher Education (HE) study level, which can be undertaken at the main ACM in Surrey; giving students a progressive study path.
Speaking about the launch, Julia Leggett, Executive Director of ACM Commercial, said, “Each Regional Centre will mirror the main centres creating an outreach programme that will allow more young people access to our award-winning music courses.”
Rob Birchall, Director of ACM Regional South Coast said, "We want our passion to spread into the community. From beginners to dedicated players, there is a course here for everyone. Musicians and aspiring musicians, young and old, have a truly fantastic opportunity to become a part of something that is globally recognised as a market leader and innovator. It is a privilege for us to be a part of this venture."
www.acmregional.co.uk/southcoast/
ACM is pleased to report that Tour Production and Management alumni student Steve Snyman is on tour with Rihanna for three months!
Steve studied the Tour Production & Management course run in conjunction with Cato and only finished in July this year. The course taught Steve about the essentials of touring and production including technical stagecraft, stage sound and advanced stage techniques.
Taking some time out from his busy tour schedule, Steve offered some advice to students currently studying Tour Production and Management or who are looking to get into the touring and production circuit,
"Listen and stay strong, take the abuse for being the youngest and newest person on tour and get stuck in! Make sure you are reliable and not late. Make friends and work fast and precisely. I’m only here doing this because of ACM and the course I did. I am really excited about my future in this industry.”
All current and graduating students are invited to the ACM Live 2011 event at G Live, Guildford’s brand new cutting edge live venue.
If you've finished your course and you've been recuperating from a hard year of studying, now is the time to celebrate your achievements at the ACM Live 2011 event!!
On the 15th September 2011 come and celebrate the ACM Live experience at G Live in Guildford. This is guaranteed to be a fantastic event full of live performances, awards and all around good times! Come join your fellow ACM’ers, tutors, industry and your friends and family at the biggest ACM Live event of the year!
If you're a graduating student then you are invited to the ACM Live 2011 and Aftershow party.
If you are a fresher then you are invited to come and join us at the After Party from 7pm.
Timetable of events:
• Doors open at 4pm
• Daniel & Murugan - 4pm - acoustic set - Foyer
• 4.30pm: Awards event commences - (graduates & guests)
• Karina Vismara - 6pm - acoustic set - Foyer
• The General - 6.30pm - acoustic set - Foyer
Aftershow Party - 7pm - (everyone)
Special evening performances from:
• Rokhsan - 7.30pm
• Charming Thieves - 8.15pm
• Trails - 9pm
• Subsource - 9.45pm
ACM Live 2011 RSVP
Tickets are FREE on a ‘first come first served’ basis. Each student is entitled to one ticket for themselves and can request up to two guest tickets. Please RSVP no later than the 31st August 2011. Please reply via email, stating your ticket requirements, your full name and postal address to: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
July 16th, 2011 is a very important date in the ACM calendar, as it marks the first Lowde Music Beer Festival, in honor and remembrance of the ACM music business school's much loved Keith Lowde.
In aid of the Lowde Music Trust, the festival will feature performances from the ACM Junior band 'The Theroy of Six Degrees', as well as performances from bands and artists such as Strangefruit, 29 Fingers & Jersey Budd.
The music will start at 1pm and continue through to 9pm. There will also be a great choice of food, beer, wine and pimms for you to enjoy the music and entertainment with.
For those with small children, have no fear, as the festival will have all sorts for the little ones to do, including a bouncy castle, pets corner, face painting and loads more.
Camping is available and limited parking is provided.
For more information, go to The Lowde Music Festival Website for more details.
ACM was once again proud to support THE best, and most extensive unsigned music festival in Europe. Held across bustling Brighton; The Great Escape is a multi-venue music festival, designed for music lovers who like their bands fresh, and their beats fresher.
This year, the ACM showcase was held once again at Brighton's famous 'Komedia Club', and saw performances from the likes of Jazz Morley, Oh So Quiet, The General, Brother and Bones, Trails and Coda.
Check out the video:
The ACM Battle of the Bands Competition 2011 saw a great mix of ACM bands take to the stage and perform in front of a capacity crowd at The Boileroom, Guildford's leading creative arts venue.
There were performances across three heats and a grand final which featured Skyskratcher, Charming Thieves, The General, Akakios, The Pulse, Trails, Atiptoe, Viperfish, Escapists, Mellor and Static Plan.
Fighting off all these contestants and claiming the 1st prize was Josh Edwards and the Language who won over the crowd with their acoustic, showgazy, folky performance. The band won £500 worth of Andertons Music Store vouchers plus recording time at a local studio. Congrats guys. Good job!
For the fourth year running ACM are involved in programming the New Music Stage 'Club Tropicana' at BeachBreak Live Festival which runs from 16th-20th June in South Wales.
Club Trop is back! Showcasing an impressive line-up for 2011 this ‘unsigned stage’ is THE place to come and revel with the up and coming stars of the future who not so long ago were in your muddy Havanas, dreaming of being on that stage! The all new ACM Presents venue is all about ‘the music man’ and the chosen ones will surprise and delight you with their cutting edge performances. Remember kids, you seen it here first...
Stand out artists performing on the 'Club Tropicana Stage' this year are. Coda (Live Dubstep), Talking Pictures, Free Peace, Films of Colour, Cubrik, Brother & Bones and 8Fold.
Have a listen to this SoundCloud player to check out some of the artists performing:
or go direct to the soundcloud page here
This May, Propellerhead's “Music Making Month” is a month-long set of activities to inspire and help people with their music creating endeavors, whatever they may be. During the month, Propellerhead will serve up a packed schedule with daily online events including interactive workshops, Q&A sessions with artists, new tutorial content, webcasts of live events and clinics from places around the world and much more. Activities are designed for any musician or producer regardless of production tools used or instruments played.
As part of the Music Making Month, Propellerhead will be presenting seminars at ACM on Tuesday 10th May. Presenters Mattias Häggström Gerdt and Gary Bromham will showcase Reason / Record and talk in depth about their specific expertise in the music industry.
Mattias Häggström Gerdt, also known as ‘anosou’, is a Swedish composer, arranger, multi-instrumentalist, Propellerhead product specialist and game enthusiast. With influences ranging from 60s minimalism via progressive rock to all kinds of electronic music, he creates music in a wide variety of genres for a multitude of purposes. Mattias has already started to make his mark on game music with numerous soundtracks composed, a heavy involvement in the game music arrangement scene and a strong tie to the independent game developer community. His scores for the game 'Cobalt' was nominated for the Excellence in Audio award at this years Independent Games Festival in San Francisco.
From Bjork, to Tina Turner, to Sheryl Crowe, Gary Bromham has worked with a best-of list in pop music over the years. His experience on large format mixers at Olympic Studios in London gives him a unique insight on how to approach mixing in Record 1.5's large mixer. Gary will show he mixes and the very musical decisions that one faces during such a technical endeavour.
To learn more about the Propellerhead Music Making Month go to: www.propellerheads.se/mmm
Degree students Emma Hughes (bass), Carmen Vandenberg (guitar) and Fern Ford (drums) have all been chosen as Kate Nash's backing band for her forthcoming tour. They successfully auditioned through the BDC, securing permanent placement as the tour band for Brit winning female singer songwriter.
After intense rehearsals, the band will be setting off on a national tour. To see Kate live, click here.
ACM Bass Tutor and Rotosound endorsee Paul Geary will be joining Rotosound on their stand at the London Bass Show on the 12th - 13th March 2011 at Olympia.
In between teaching here at ACM his busy schedule for 2011 sees him working away on a new studio album with Nik Kershaw and he’ll be performing at festivals with Nik in the UK, Denmark, Norway, Sweden and Germany. On top of that he’ll be appearing on TV and promo tours with Mary J Blige across Europe.
Jamiroquai’s Paul Turner, Rob Harris and Derrick McKenzie took time out from promoting their new album 'Rock Dust Light Star' to visit ACM on Tuesday, 22 February. The multi-platinum selling band conducted a masterclass in their respective disciplines of bass, guitar and drums, with ACM students having the opportunity to watch the band perform live and demonstrate particular techniques, as well as posing their own questions, to gain invaluable one-to-one advice on how to succeed in the music industry.
Speaking about ACM, Paul Turner said, “We like to visit the academy as often as possible. It’s always a pleasure coming here and talking to the students. There is a lot of talent here.”
ACM’s Bass Guitar School Manager, Nik Preston, said, “ACM is excited to welcome back one of the UK’s most dynamic and respected rhythm sections. Paul, Rob and Derrick’s master class is always eagerly anticipated by the industry’s stars of tomorrow, and is bound to be hugely beneficial to all involved.”
At the TPi's 10th annual Production Industry Celebration in London our very own tech legend 'Deptford' John Armitage, who's been out recently on the Take That sell-out tour, was amongst the celebrated award winners receiving 'Backline Technician of the Year'. Props, Deptford!
Attracting over 1,100 people from over 200 companies from all corners of the live music business, the TPi Awards recognises the achievements of the most talented and successful individuals and service companies working within the industry.
Guitar Masterclass with Deptford John and Lee Pomeroy
John recently took part in the BBC's Musicians' Masterclass 2011, where he talked about maintaining and repairing guitars and basses. You can watch the class on the BBC's Website.
John is also listed the National Skills Academy website. Why not have a look? click here
John's website is a virtual articulated lorry stuffed full of goodness which offers 'stadium standard guitar repairs for over 20 years'.
(Phil Brookes is the Founding Director of ACM)
Universal Music Group's Research and Insights department made their second visit to the ACM Business School after recently setting students a project to research music consumption among students. Business school student Daniel Legere lead and formed groups...
Read more of this article at music business school news
Relentless Records (part of Virgin Records) descended upon a marketing lecture where students have been working in groups creating marketing plans and online strategy for Relentless' newly signed artist To Kill a King...
Read more of this article at music business school news
There has been a fantastic week of ACM students, graduates and alumni performing on the tellybox across the UK. Kicking things off were amazing performances on top music broadcast 'Later with Jools Holland'. On the line up with Jools were guitarist Nick Tsang (the Ting Tings), bassist Ted Dwane (Mumford & Sons) and degree production student Ellie Fletcher (Crystal Fighters). Loads more on Jools' webpage. Check it out.
In X-Factor news, vocalist Geneva Lane is performing live on the show as part of girl band Belle Amie, Business student John Budding has played keyboards with One Direction and ACM Graduate Chris Leonard (Busted, Son of Dork) is Music Director for the house band. Brilliant work guys.
ACM has expanded its facilities in Guildford recently, with the opening of a unique Artist Development Centre for its students in the town centre. The building houses creative resources and high tech facilities across two floors including:
• Demo Theatre
• Audient Recording Studio & Live Room
• 8 Practice Rooms
• Yamaha Keyboard Studio
• Music Business Lecture Room
This facility adds to the existing campus on Bridge Street, which comprises of Global House and the Rodboro Buildings. The building which was previously home to a major pub chain has been completely revamped by ‘Space-pod’, who created the inspiring Rodboro conversion back in 2000.
ACM’s focus has always been to integrate Music Industry and Education, providing students with career opportunities through its Business and Artist Development Team, and this new expansion will help to broaden the facilities available to the students.
Check out the Facilities page for more images of the Artist Development Centre.
The ACM Battle of the Bands Final 2010 was another adrenaline-fuelled night in the ACM social calendar. The grand final of the competition saw Finding Sound, Deville and CODA take to the stage and perform in front of a capacity audience at The Boileroom.
After a tense public vote, CODA emerged the victors after a vibrant and energentic performance. The band netted £500 of music store vouchers and a 2 day recording session at a professional recording studio. Having survived the night, ACM's Drew Harding stated, "CODA are one of the most exciting bands I've seen in years! Surely destined for big things..."
www.myspace.com/codamusicuk
In addition the the Battle of the Bands event, ACM will be showcasing bands at the Electric Theatre, Guildford from 21st - 26th June (Higher Diploma) and 20th - 24th July (Diploma) 2010. Tickets are available online and from the Electric Theatre Box Office.
You can watch the almighty CODA performing at the ACM Battle of the Bands Competition on ACM TV
ACM was delighted to welcome back a panel of highly influential music professionals for the annual Industry Link day.
The day gave ACM students the chance to chat to industry experts, offer demos, and build lasting network contacts in the comfort of the ACM campus.
Amongst the expert panel were Warner Music A&R Manager Ben Durling, and Good Groove and Disney Music A&R Tracy Fox, as well as Coda Booking Agent, Ollie Hodgson.
Neil Simpson, ACM's Business and Artist Development Centre Manager said:
"Developing your network of contacts is quite simply the core of everything your career will need in the music industry. Whether you are a performer, artist, producer or business person, your survival in the professional world is based upon not only the quality o the work you deliver, but also your professionalism and interpersonal skills. Industry Link serves to offer students a chance to talk to the industry on a level playing field."
Former ACM tutor and internationally recognised guitar virtuoso Guthrie Govan, is to present the next live webcast from Lick Library. This groundbreaking interactive event with live video and chat will start on the 5th May 2010 at 19.00 ( 7pm )
Lick Library have uploaded on to their You Tube channel clips featuring some of the web lessons, performances and interviews Guthrie Govan has done for them to wet your appetite. If you follow the links you can pre-register any questions here or enter it on the chat box on the webcast page as you watch the presentation.
Guthrie Govan, one of Lick Library’s guitar teachers, will play some of his tracks during the webcast demonstrating his command of the electric guitar and his huge technical ability. Guthrie is famous for his vast range of influences (Hendrix and Clapton through to Steve Vai to name but a few) and his latest album was described by Joe Satriani as “Totally freakin awesome!!!”.
You can ask Guthrie Govan a question and he will answer live on air and whilst you are there you can also interact with other Lick Library members as you enjoy the ultimate free guitar lesson.
To be a part of this awesome event register FREE online at www.licklibrary.com/webcastregister
and get those fingers moving in a new way!
It's the start of a new and exciting academic year! To get the new year well and truly swinging, ACM are going ON TOUR AGAIN!
Last year ACM travelled around the South of England visiting Schools and Colleges. To make the event that little bit special we took Rokhsan Heydari with us, a former ACM student and emerging artist who has played on the BBC Introducing stage at Glastonbury '08 and released her single 'You Look At Me' and ‚'Lately'.
Rokhsan gave live performances and shared her experiences as both a student and artist. We also gave a presentation about career opportunities in the music industry and how ACM's courses can help students find a suitable career path.
ACM ON TOUR has been a huge success so far and the schools and colleges we have visited have really enjoyed it and found it very beneficial for both students and local press oportunities. It's been a great way to promote an active interest in contemporary music to young people, encouraging them to begin playing and performing music.
We are now setting up our next tour! We will be taking Rokhsan and some new ACM artists with us for the trip! It is an opportunity you shouldn't miss!
To book an ACM artist to come to your school please email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call 01483 500861. Contact us ASAP because there are limited spaces and we know this will be a popular event!
"We're thrilled to have this opportunity to work with the ACM as it gives our students insight and knowledge about today's music industry."
Paul Søgaard - Music Teacher at St Peter's School in Merrow
All our students are taught not only their chosen discipline but what it takes to build a career in the music industry. The music industry is very broad and varied with career options ranging from artists, composers, producers and publishers to managers, record label executives, A&R, marketing and press etc. We would very much like to talk to your students about career opportunities in this field and to introduce them to ACM as a possible next step.
To honour Steve Vai's visit to the Academy, and his contribution to music, ACM is proud to announce the introduction of an all new Guitar Studio; The Steve Vai Guitar Studio. The all new state of the art facility, will boast a brand new Vai Legacy rig, a horde of signed Ibanez Jem Guitars, a healthy sprinkling of amps and other signed paraphernalia, courtesy of Steve himself and ACM's good friends at Ibanez.
This marks the beginning of a strong and ever growing relationship between The Academy of Contemporary Music and Steve who is keen to nurture his guitar studio for many years to come.
Steve had a message for the guitarists of the future; "This school is phenomenal. If you decide to come here, I think you are very fortunate because being in an environment with a lot of other musicians is a wonderful thing. These may end up being the best years of your life so enjoy them!"
NEWS
News Stories
Read all the latest News Stories at ACM and find out what we're up to!
Emre Ramazanoglu to Visit ACM
Emre, one of the UK's more proficient Pro Tools editors and session drummer will be visiting ACM Guildford on Thursday 2nd February between 1.30pm and 3.30pm, to show off some of his editing skills. You'll need to to watch carefully, he's fast!
Emre has produced, mixed, engineered, programmed, composed and drummed on countless projects for a wide variety of artists and clients. The list and breadth of projects that he's been involved in truly speaks for itself.
These include amount others:
Russo, Warpaint, Beardyman, Trojan Records, Duffy, Nolwenn Leroy, Yo Video, Summercamp, Aggro Santos, Shakira, Michael Jackson, William Orbit, Natty, Pulp, Sarabeth Tucek, Lou Rhodes (Lamb), Bobby Gillespie, Prodigy, Tricky, Boilerhouse Boys, Afrika Babaata, Infadels, Tom Middleton, Harvey (So Solid Crew), Carl Cox, Rob Da Bank, Sneaker Pimps, My Red Cell, Sikth, Oddur Runarsson, Oxide and Neutrino, Trickbaby, Tiger Aspect, Trash Monday, Zohar, One Minute Silence, Dreem Teem, Kid Galahad, King Kooba, Themroc, Keith Tippet and Alsion Moyet.
As you can see So Emre's experience spans a much of the music industry, so this is an opportunity not to be missed especially as tickets are extremely limited and due to the expected popularity will be limited to ACM Production and CSD students ONLY.
Word on the street is....Sons of Icarus
It’s always nice to hear from ACM students past and present, especially when it’s about a forthcoming release. Here’s what one recent reviewer had to say about Sons of Icarus’ forthcoming EP ‘You Want It All’.
"Normally I don't review EPs because most don't have enough meat on the bones to make it worthwhile. This is a very big exception, as it features a bunch of young up-start British hard rockers itching to give bands like Rival Sons a run for their money. Well actually that is a bit lame because Sons of Icarus sound like they come from the LA strip and Rival Sons (from LA) sound like they were part of the London scene in the 70s. Not surprisingly, this bunch of hard working young rockers have opened for Rival Sons as well as the other hard rock hope The Answer.
Despite the fact the band met at the Academy of Contemporary Music in Guildford, Surrey they have not ended up as a progressive metal band. Instead this is clever hard rock that is less Guns n Roses and more Blue Murder or Mr Big (if you ignore the ballads). They won a battle of the bands in 2010 and played both Download and Sonisphere. There is no wonder why they won with this collection of tracks.
They are certainly a band to watch in 2012. Lets hope they make it to the U.S. this year."
Read the original feature on: http://tinyurl.com/864dyfl
Here's hoping that Sons of Icarus continue to make a good impression throughout 2012! Find out more about Sons of Icarus or follow them on Twitter or Facebook.
Open Day is a Winter Warming Success
Despite the cold December weather and lure of Christmas shopping, ACM was pleased to welcome hundreds of people to the last Open Day for 2011. Over the course of the four hour event, visitors caught a glimpse of what studying at ACM is about and experienced the sights and sounds of our state-of-the-art facilities.
In addition to meeting a host of ACM's music faculty, visitors were able to discuss the ins and outs of the course programmes and enjoy a series of presentations and very special live tutor performances.
These were just some of the comments that visitors shared with us throughout their tour of ACM:
"So good, it makes sliced bread look old school."
"Great facilities and focus on students."
"Amazing!!"
"Can't wait to come next year!"
"Awesome doesn't even describe it!!!"
If you weren't able to make ACM's Open Day then don't worry. You can still download all the course information right here. In the meantime if you have any questions, comments or simply want to discuss your options then feel free to get in touch with our Admissions Team via email at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
ACM will be closed for the Christmas and New Year holiday from Friday 23rd December to Tuesday 3rd January 2012.
If you're worried you've missed out joining one of ACM's many part time courses, then worry not! All our part time course start in the second week of January 2012 so you still have plenty of time to apply... Why not give a late Christmas Gift to that musician in your life?
When a Chili Pepper came to visit ACM
Monday 21st November will be remembered by many as the day that Chad Smith swung by ACM for an impromptu visit.
ACM students and staff poured into the Rodboro Building to catch a glimpse of one quarter of The Red Hot Chili Peppers.
During his three hour stay, Chad shared some of his near 40 years drumming experience teaching ACM's students calypso rhythms and the history of shuffle beats from the great Blues drummer Earl Palmer. Speaking his drumming influences Chad emphasised the importance of appreciating a wide variety of music beyond just rock and metal;
"I wish at a younger age I'd been more well-rounded - listened to other music… it might not be the kind of stuff you listen to on your iPod, but it's great for drumming… be open to all different kinds of good music."
Chad went onto to share his thoughts on ACM and why it's so different to so many of the other music schools;
"This school (ACM) is really something rather special because there's not a lot of these kinds of environments…this is your chance and you're here because you love music and to get better at your craft."
Between his class room antics and teaching, Chad met hundreds of ACM students, posing for photographs, signing all manner of items and taking time to meet and greet each one. Chad then moved onto the Roger Taylor Zildjian Drum Studio where he took some time out to absorb some of the Queen memorabilia and reminisce of his time on tour and his previous visit to ACM.
Chad rounded off his visit with an LPP lesson that none of the ACM students will forget in a hurry by accompanying them in several renditions of AC/DC’s 'Back in Black'. Safe to say this is one visit ACM will not forget in a hurry!
Follow Chad Smith online via Twitter and Facebook.
ACM Rocks X Factor
Three ACM Alumni featured in last Saturday’s X Factor live show performing alongside 2011 hopeful Sami Brooks. Natalie Palmer, Senab Adekunle and Imogen Harfleet were hired for the live performance on the recommendation of ACM’s Business and Artist Development Centre (BDC).
View Sami Brooks’ X Factor Performance
ACM has strong links with X Factor as one of the Musical Directors is also ACM Alumni. The musical directors arrange all the additional musicians who back the contestants and are frequent visitors to ACM.
Keep an eye out every week to see if you can spot any other ACMers!
Amazing new SSL Desk @ ACM
ACM is extremely proud to announce the installation of a ground-breaking 24 channel SSL Duality Console in the new Audio Production studio.
The new console from the legendary international firm SSL will prove to be of invaluable worth to students on Music Production, Creative Sound Design and Radio Broadcasting courses. Amongst its impressive specifications the SSL Duality Console boasts 24 analogue channels, full DAW controls, switchable classic E & G series EQ and 5.1 surround sound, plus full automation and total recall.
Commenting on the new console, ACM’s Head of Audio Production Antony Greaves said, "All the staff and students at ACM are very excited about the new studio, and to be working with such a legendary brand as SSL. Our new flagship studio will be a state of the art teaching facility as well as being available for ACM students to use for their own projects. Personally, I can't wait to get my hands on that SSL!"
Speaking about their association with ACM, Dan Duffell of SSL says, “It is a great pleasure to be working with ACM. They have an enviable reputation for excellence that has grown out of providing first rate teaching facilities and great teaching and support stuff. ACM are the first UK educators to install Duality and we are confident that it will prove as successful for them as it has for so many of our clients in the US and around the world.”
This alliance with SSL is a further enhancement to the field-leading music education model provided by the Academy of Contemporary Music.
Alistair Lawrie is the 2011 ACM Mix Master!
Congratulations to ACM 2nd year Degree student Alistair Lawrie for becoming the ACM 2011 Mix Master!
The annual competition entitled 'Mix Master', in which ACM 2nd year degree students have the opportunity to showcase their professional mixes to a judging panel, drew to its conclusion recently.
Alistair's mix was selected and chosen as the most professional and polished track, and was presented with the Mix Master plaque by Audio Production School Manager, Antony Greaves.
Josh on tour with Katy B
Congratulations to ACM Tour Production and Management student Josh De Marcos for successfully gaining a backline tech placement on the recent Katy B tour.
Katy B's profile as an artist has an artist has been steadily increasing within the UK, after her debut appearance of Magnetic Man's smash Dubstep single Perfect Stranger.
Since then, Katy has had some huge tunes hit the charts, including 'Lights On feat. Ms. Dynamite', 'Louder' and the brand new single 'Broken Record'.
The 'On A Mission tour' is scheduled to run until November and promises to be a killer!
Gemma and Meldra play for Cee Lo Green
ACM was represented in full force at the recent Capital FM Summertime Ball, held at Wembley stadium.
US superstar Cee Lo Green was joined on stage by former ACM students Gemma Hill (drums) and Meldra Guza (guitar) for a fantastic performance of his smash hit "Bright Lights Bigger City".
Since leaving ACM in 2004, Gemma has forged a fantastic career as a professional drummer. A career that includes drumming duties for indie electro pop sensation 'Robots in Disguise', live sessions for rising star Alistar Griffin and a whole host of other acts..
Check out Cee Lo's performance right here
Songwriting Competition 2011
The ACM Songwriting Competition 2011 saw some of the Academy's brightest stars take to the stage and perform original material in front of a capacity audience at Guildford's leading creative arts venue, The Boileroom.
thre were performances of songs on the night by George Peploe, Charlotte Olivia, Tommy Monroe, Josh Edwards, Grainne O, Martha Paton, Moteh Parrott, Karina Vismara, Hannah Perrin, Gary Kingham (Mellor) and also a DJ set from Zomboy
Winning the competition was ACM degree student Karina Vismara, with a song entitled 'Only You' which fought off hundreds of other entries to claim the prize. Chosen by Warner Chappell Music, Karina netted £500 of Andertons music store vouchers.
“The final 10 songs were all of high quality, but there were 3 or 4 of true potential. It was unfortunate only one writer could win, but as a competition it certainly helped highlight the talent pool the ACM have amassed & developed.”
Ryan Farley, Warner Chappell
Ace Guitar Competition Winner: Billy Mullen
ACM competition winner Billy Mullen is now the proud owner of a new Squier Strat guitar, signed by Ace from legendary rock band Skunk Anansie, as well as other Skunk Anansie goodies from their last tour. These great prizes come from Ace's recent visit to ACM, where he met with full-time students; giving masterclasses on music industry tips, performance and production skills.
Billy attended the Open Day in March with friends of which he currently plays in a band with, and entered the competition with the other 500 people who entered the building to see the amazing facilities of ACM. Why not visit our next Open Day on Saturday 16th July (11am-3pm) to see what all the fuss is about...
Diploma Scholarships 2011 - ACM supports grass roots music education and widening participation
This exciting new opportunity is made available to all new applicants. Applicants must be EU based students, aged 16 – 18 years old (as at 31st August 2011).
The ACM Diploma scholarships are available for Performance and Audio Production Diploma courses (BTEC Level 3 Diploma) commencing September 2011. Complete the normal application form plus answer additional question;
In 150 words please explain why you feel you should qualify for the ACM Diploma Scholarship....
Please feel free to include any other relevant evidence that you feel would support your application.
Places are available on all Performance (guitar, bass, drum and vocal) and Audio Production Diploma courses. Applications should be submitted as soon as possible. Results of the successful applicants will be released in due course and subsequently contracts will be sent out.
ACM is passionate about contemporary music education. The ACM Diploma Scholarship aims to open up opportunities to students who have a desire to further their musical education.
ACM reserves the right to refuse any application that it feels is not suitable.
Smoking Aces
All round top-bloke, chatterbox and guitar-hero Ace, from Skunk Anansie, dropped into ACM this week for a whole host of masterclasses covering performance, production and the music industry. Ace even took the time to cover some tutorials with students and impart his vast knowledge about the music business.
Ace talked at length to performance students about his experiences being in a band, sell-out tours, the ins and outs of songwriting and even asked some students up on stage to work on some riffs and talk through band dynamics.
There followed a great session in teaching control where a mix of music production and guitar students went through the processes of production from recording guitars - layering and how to get a great sound - to choosing the right equipment and even budget guidelines.
Finally Ace guested in the Degree Business Psychology lecture that went deep into the processes of being an artist, discussing such topics as - what the 'creative process' is for an artist and how to reconcile creativity/art with business/industry among others.
Ace said, “Calling into ACM is always a rewarding and fulfilling experience. The students are receptive, intelligent and dedicated to their art. Classes are fun as well as educational, and the pupils welcoming atmosphere make any visit a pleasure.”
Guitar School Manager Matt Haslett added, "It's fantastic for the students when someone of Ace's calibre and experience is willing to come in and share his insight and knowledge with the next generation of players and artists. It's these extra opportunities which create such a positive atmosphere and ultimately make ACM such a unique environment."
Thanks Ace. You were, er, Ace!
Ted Dwane Wins Brit Award with Mumford & Sons
ACM Bass graduate Ted Dwane, of English folk-rock band Mumford & Sons, collected a Brit Award on 15th February when the band’s debut album ‘Sigh No More’ (Island Records) was awarded Mastercard Best British Album Of The Year.
The band was nominated for 3 Brit Awards in total and performed live on the night. The news follows a critically acclaimed live performance at the US Grammys in early February, where the band earned two Grammy Award nominations for Best New Artist and Best Rock Song.
ACM’s Ian Edwards said, “ACM is extremely proud of Ted and the Mumford boys’ achievements this year. This Brit Award represents all their hard work.”
Mumford & Sons join previous ACM Brit Award nominees, such as Newton Faulkner nominated for Best Male Solo Artist in 2008, Amelle Berrabah of Sugababes nominated for Best British Single in 2006, and Camilla Kerslake nominated for Album of the Year in 2010 at the Classical Brit Awards.
Nu Skool Drumming with Craig Blundell
Following on from his hugely successful column in Drummer magazine, worldwide clinics and appearances with prog-rock supremos Frost, International Roland V-Drums clinician Craig Blundell will be leading students through his unique blend of extreme coordination studies and the integration of electronics into modern drumming styles. Designed to push drummers out of their comfort zone and address their weaknesses, this course is not to be missed.
"This course is going to really push players out of their own day to day comfort zone and will push them to the maximum. Over the 10 weeks, it will irreversibly change their practice routine and set targets for the following week. Players will feel the benefits almost instantly with their own co-ordination boundaries."
Nu Skool Drumming with Craig Blundell is running as a ACM Plus Part Time course on Tuesday nights from 7-8.30pm starting this April. So get in touch if you wanna push your drumstickery to the maximiser. Totally pounding, yeah!
Bill Bruford's Back
A big welcome back to drum legend Bill Bruford. Bill has once again returned to ACM to lend his expert tutelage to our MA Contemporary Music Performance students. Bill has a career that spans more than five decades, including defining moments with Yes and King Crimson. It's a true honour and a treat to have Bill back at ACM. We salute you, sir.
Oh, yeah. He also has a book available. It's called Bill Bruford: The Autobiography. Yours for only £14.95 and worth every penny, but don't take my word for it, here's Bill to sell, I mean, tell you more...
ACM Experience Day
On Thursday 16th December, ACM invited 4 schools to attend a day of fun, music and learning! 20 students from each school attended and chose a discipline for the day.
All the attending students had workshops in their separate disciplines. Later, the Performance students formed bands whilst the Production students moved into the studio. After lunch students were lucky enough to get a live performance from the tutor band and student band Free Peace (pictured above).
"Our students really enjoyed the day and apparently are all raving about ACM! Many thanks to you and Amy for organising the event." Stephanie, Bishop David Brown School
ACM students featured in MusicWeek
The music industry's leading publication MusicWeek swelled with the brimming success of ACM emerging artists this week. The magazine's 'Music Week Presents' feature of upcoming artists and sounds saw reviews from artists such as Reading based quartet Films of Colour for their highly anticipated release of their latest single 'Actions'.
Also up for review was ACM higher diploma graduate and outstanding achievement winner Jazz Morley with her latest offering 'Disconnected'. Next up was the ultra talented Deville with their latest single entitled 'Lips', and finally, the awesome Arcady Bliss with the release of 'Feeling the Glow'.
If you'd like to see the article as a pdf click here or go to www.musicweek.com for the full story.
Congratulations to all artists for featuring in such a respected publication. Check out their myspace sites:
Most Outstanding, Dude!
ACM hereby announces this years 'Outstanding Achievement Award' winners. What an amazing job you guys did throughout the year. We hail and salute you all!
Stephen Bramwell - Guitar Degree
Robert O'Murphy - Guitar Higher Diploma
Mikayl Dawood - Guitar Diploma
Sam Rommer / Simon Smith - Bass Degree
Matthew Aston - Bass Higher Diploma
Benjamin Golding - Bass Diploma
Robert Parsons - Drum Degree
Alessio Barelli - Drum Higher Diploma
Samuel Wade - Drum Diploma
Abi Evans - Vocal Degree (pictured above)
Jasmine Morley - Vocal Higher Diploma
Toni Wiseman - Vocal Diploma
Gianmarco Giuliani - Music Production Degree
Kriss Baird - Music Production Higher Diploma
Eve Fairley-Chickwe - Music Production Diploma
Daniel Owen - Creative Sound Design Degree
Michael Stead - Music Business Degree
Matthew Monck - Music Business Higher Diploma
Anastasia Gerasimchuk - Coutts Award
Marie-Lou Quivogne - CATO Diploma
A massive congratulations to our Award Winners and all our students for a fantastic year at ACM.
Want Live Music at Your School?
Singer Songwriter Jazz Morley is going 'On Tour' this February and she would like to visit your school for a live performance and to talk about Music Industry Education – in association with Academy of Contemporary Music.
She will discuss her experiences as both an emerging artist and ACM student. There will be a Q&A session where you can ask her questions about her material, ACM courses, what it was like to study at ACM and how ACM link with the Music Industry.
Jazz Morley was recently presented with our coveted “Outstanding Vocalist” Award and since graduating is being coached by David Grant (vocal coach on Fame Academy and Pop Idol as well as to artists such as Take That, Melanie C, Lemar and Will Young).
“With references to Dusty via Duffy, this budding singer is well worth keeping an ear on.”
Phil Jackson, BBC Introducing:The South
“‘Disconnected’ is absolutely cracking – she’s wonderful!”
Melita Dennett, BBC Introducing:The South
“That is the a-mazing Jazz Morley – that’s beautiful Jazz! I’ve heard so much about you, everybody is raving about you!”
Sally Taylor, BBC Radio Solent
“She has a lovely tone to her voice, and there’s more than a hint of Jennifer Rush’s Power of Love to this song, which should please a lot of folk.”
Gill Mills, MySpace (Best of MySpace 104)
This opportunity is a great way to promote an active interest in contemporary music in your school, encouraging other students to begin playing and performing music. Jazz's performance can be incorporated into assemblies, music classes or other curricular events. Tell your music teacher about this fantastic opportunity and aks them to get in touch.
Bookings are going fast! So, to get involved this February please email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it (ACM’s ‘On Tour’ Manager) and This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it (Jazz’s Manager)
Don't miss out!
Freshers Week Was Off Da Hook!
ACM Freshers week went off (like a rocket, yeah)! 6 gigs in one week with over 700 Freshers enjoying up and coming bands from ACM and beyond...
The ACM Livelink Launch was the biggest party of the week with 3 simultaneous gigs happening across Guildford at local venues including...
@ The BoileroomFreshers were treated to block-rocking sets from Free Peace (pictured left), Brother and Bones, Finding Sound and Chris Cape. Fresh.
@ The Star
Felix Fables, Dede Davi, Van Dave and Jazz Morley enticed this years students with their unique blend of folky-acoustic stylings and flava's. Smooth.
@ Backline
Kicking on into the night were Films of Colour, Arcady Bliss, Charming Thieves plus DJ sets from DJ Jon1st and Dekko. Brap!
Jam Night was also a huge sell-out success; watching new students jamming with the house band Free Peace was awesome-cool. Tutor Night also went down a storm, with ACM legends playing their hearts out for the new crowd.
The Boileroom hosted an awesome dubstep night with ACM Battle of the Bands winners Coda (pictured top) and Notting Hill Carnival's biggest players Channel One Soundsystem. Overall an excellent start to what is going to be an exciting year.
"ACM Fresher's Week was a great chance to introduce all that the area has to offer to new and returning students. As the hub of Guildford's live music scene, The Boileroom has been packed every night with a whole variety of events."
The Boileroom, Guildford
Just finished your A-levels and looking to study a Degree?
Just finished your A-levels and looking to study a Degree? Interested in looking at an alternative study path? Love music?
Going straight in to a 3 year degree is not the only option when you have finished your A levels or BTEC. The ACM Higher Diploma is a progression to Level 4, which means you can get access to student funding and a fully recognised qualification. These one year courses are available in Performance, Music Production and Music Business (Music Media and Rights), and give students priority access to our 2-year accelerated Degree (subject to qualification criteria). Act now and secure your future with a course at ACM, world leaders in Music Industry education.
Click here for more information.
The Charming Thieves Nick the Prize
The ACM Songwriting Competition 2010 saw some of the Academy's brightest stars take to the stage and perform original material in front of a capacity audience at Guildford's leading creative arts venue, The Boileroom.
Winning the competition was ACM degree student Tommy Monroe and his band The Charming Thieves, with an acoustic version of a song entitled 'Control' which fought off 200 other entries to claim the prize. Chosen by Rich Holley of Peer Music Publishing, the band netted £500 of music store vouchers and a 2 day recording session at Matrix Studios in London. Rich said, "It was a tough decision as as there are some fantastic acts here tonight."
In addition to the event, songwriters across the UK will soon benefit from a brand new Songwriting course due to commence this September. Run as a part time Industry Qualification, the course will serve as a gateway for artists and writers wishing to develop their writing technique, offering yet another way of building a career within today's thriving music industry.
You can watch the winning performance on ACM TV
Get The Down Low with Yamaha Download
ACM Industry Partners and world renowned manufacturers Yamaha have launched a brand new website Yamaha Download. The site is an interactive feast of tutorials, features, interviews, podcasts and more. So click the link below and get fully equipped to play! Yamaha are also the chief sponsor for the up-and-coming ACM Keyboard School that launches this September. Safe.
Yamaha Download Website
ACM Gospel Choir still going strong
After their success on BBC One entertainment show ‘Last Choir Standing’, the ACM Gospel Choir is still performing with the big leagues. The choir feature on chart topper Gabriella Cilmi’s new album, ‘Ten’, on the track ‘Let Me Know’.
Other recent appearances have included ITV’s ‘Ultimate Movie Toons’, performing alongside Michael Ball, and it seems there’s no stopping them.
For a sneak preview at the recording of ‘Let Me Know’ by Gabriella Cilmi featuring the ACM Gospel Choir, click below:
Camilla Kerslake chosen as the voice of Christmas for Waitrose
ACM Vocal and business student Camilla Kerslake has been chosen as the voice of Christmas this year by supermarket giant Waitrose for their Christmas 2009 campaign.
As part of a deal to promote her self titled new album, the TV ad campaign, developed by ad agency MCBD, features Camilla's version of the hymn "How Can I Keep From Singing?".
To tie in with the partnership with the food store, Camilla will also be performing at a number of Waitrose-backed food events including the Taste of Christmas Festival, while her album will be promoted in-store.
Camilla shot to success when Take That frontman Gary Barlow signed the star to his new label Future Records.
ACM feature in The Independent
ACM is proud to be profiled in a feature in the UK daily newspaper The Independent. The article highlights our recent expansion into the USA. Click here for the full story.
• Independent on Sunday main feature - May'09
Richard Lightman to Visit ACM
Thursday 26th January will be a very exciting day for ACM's Creative Sound & Media Design (CSD) and Audio Production students, as Richard Lightman is set to visit ACM in Guildford.
Hailing from Montreal, Canada, Richard’s career has spanned the full spectrum of production work and he will sharing some of his vast experience on sound design for box office hits such as An American Werewolf in London, Superman II, III & IV, Herbie Goes Bananas, and Flash Gordon.
In addition, Richard has produced over 35 albums, from Heavy Metal, Reggae, Blues, Bollywood, Bhangra, Rock and Roll, New Age, Jazz, Pop and Garage, and hundreds of TV and radio commercials.
As a musician he’s played on over 170 recordings and performed in 28 countries on 5 continents. He has composed for a myriad of artists, television series, news and current affairs programs and commercials. On top of this Richard is also Managing Director of Meringue Productions, a company that licenses children’s intellectual properties for adaptation to the Inflight Entertainment platform and provides content for international long haul flight airlines.
As you can see So Richard's experience spans a much of the music industry, so this is an opportunity not to be missed especially as tickets are extremely limited and due to the expected popularity will be limited to ACM Production and CSD students ONLY.
For more information about Richard Lightman and his career visit his website.
Rufus Philpott Visits ACM
As a final 'Horah' before the end of the 2011 term, ACM invited professional bass guitarist Rufus Philpott to host a bass masterclass for ACM students.
Philpott, who has a performance and recording portfolio that includes the likes of Allan Holdsworth, Tony MacAlpne, Scott Henderson, Jeff Golub, Greg Howe and Mitch Forman was only too happy to share his experiences and knowledge with ACM students.
"Rufus' bass master class was exactly what it said on the tin- an in-depth analysis of the role of the modern electric bass player, which included a detailed breakdown of functional supportive bass playing all the way up to high-octane soloing concepts. One of the best master classes I have seen.”
Joe Hubbard - Senior Lecturer at ACM
We'd like to thank Rufus for taking the time to visit ACM and look forward to welcoming him back to ACM in the near future.
For more information on Rufus Philpott visit his website.
ACMR (Regional) South Coast Opens in Jan 2012
ACM is proud to announce the the launch of ACM Regional South Coast, its very first regional centre in the UK, in January 2012.Located in Bournemouth, ACM Regional South Coast will take over from The Music Factory, which has been providing music education in the area since 2004. ACM Regional is the Academy’s way of ensuring more people have access to the ACM experience, but at a location more convenient to them. Full and part-time courses will be delivered within these Regional Centres utilising ACM curriculum and methodology.
Approved Regional Centres will teach up to and including Further Education study. Each course has been designed to progress naturally through to a Higher Education (HE) study level, which can be undertaken at the main ACM in Surrey; giving students a progressive study path.
Speaking about the launch, Julia Leggett, Executive Director of ACM Commercial, said, “Each Regional Centre will mirror the main centres creating an outreach programme that will allow more young people access to our award-winning music courses.”
Rob Birchall, Director of ACM Regional South Coast said, "We want our passion to spread into the community. From beginners to dedicated players, there is a course here for everyone. Musicians and aspiring musicians, young and old, have a truly fantastic opportunity to become a part of something that is globally recognised as a market leader and innovator. It is a privilege for us to be a part of this venture."
www.acmregional.co.uk/southcoast/
'This is just amazing' - Queen's Roger Taylor on his visit to ACM
ACM was privileged to welcome Queen’s Roger Taylor to ACM to open the new 80 seat Roger Taylor Zildjian Studio in association with Zildjian cymbals.The studio boasts a stage with full band set up and lighting rig, plus an incredible display of Queen memorabilia, which has been kindly gifted to the Academy by Roger Taylor and Zildjian.
Speaking about the studio, Roger said, "This is just amazing. We had nothing at school, in fact nothing but disapproval. There was no school drum kit, let alone a room full of drum kits. So this is like a dream come true."
View the Roger Taylor visit video on Youtube
During his visit, students were lucky enough to meet the legendary sticksman and benefit from Roger’s knowledge during a question and answer session, which was then followed by a signing session and performances by ACM students.
Zildjian are one of ACM’s longest-standing supporters, having sponsored and provided cymbals to the Academy ever since it opened its doors back in 1995 as well as internationally renowned performing artists, including Roger Taylor himself.
The studio will be of invaluable use to students studying at the Academy across the Performance, Production and Business faculties and we're so grateful to both Roger and Zildjian for their support in its creation.
For more photos from Roger Taylor's visit check out ACM's Facebook page - search Acm.Guildford.
Rihanna takes ACM on tour
ACM is pleased to report that Tour Production and Management alumni student Steve Snyman is on tour with Rihanna for three months!
Steve studied the Tour Production & Management course run in conjunction with Cato and only finished in July this year. The course taught Steve about the essentials of touring and production including technical stagecraft, stage sound and advanced stage techniques.
Taking some time out from his busy tour schedule, Steve offered some advice to students currently studying Tour Production and Management or who are looking to get into the touring and production circuit,
"Listen and stay strong, take the abuse for being the youngest and newest person on tour and get stuck in! Make sure you are reliable and not late. Make friends and work fast and precisely. I’m only here doing this because of ACM and the course I did. I am really excited about my future in this industry.”
ACM Live 2011
All current and graduating students are invited to the ACM Live 2011 event at G Live, Guildford’s brand new cutting edge live venue.
If you've finished your course and you've been recuperating from a hard year of studying, now is the time to celebrate your achievements at the ACM Live 2011 event!!
On the 15th September 2011 come and celebrate the ACM Live experience at G Live in Guildford. This is guaranteed to be a fantastic event full of live performances, awards and all around good times! Come join your fellow ACM’ers, tutors, industry and your friends and family at the biggest ACM Live event of the year!
If you're a graduating student then you are invited to the ACM Live 2011 and Aftershow party.
If you are a fresher then you are invited to come and join us at the After Party from 7pm.
Timetable of events:
• Doors open at 4pm
• Daniel & Murugan - 4pm - acoustic set - Foyer
• 4.30pm: Awards event commences - (graduates & guests)
• Karina Vismara - 6pm - acoustic set - Foyer
• The General - 6.30pm - acoustic set - Foyer
Aftershow Party - 7pm - (everyone)
Special evening performances from:
• Rokhsan - 7.30pm
• Charming Thieves - 8.15pm
• Trails - 9pm
• Subsource - 9.45pm
ACM Live 2011 RSVP
Tickets are FREE on a ‘first come first served’ basis. Each student is entitled to one ticket for themselves and can request up to two guest tickets. Please RSVP no later than the 31st August 2011. Please reply via email, stating your ticket requirements, your full name and postal address to: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
The Lowde Music Festival - July 16th, 2011
July 16th, 2011 is a very important date in the ACM calendar, as it marks the first Lowde Music Beer Festival, in honor and remembrance of the ACM music business school's much loved Keith Lowde.
In aid of the Lowde Music Trust, the festival will feature performances from the ACM Junior band 'The Theroy of Six Degrees', as well as performances from bands and artists such as Strangefruit, 29 Fingers & Jersey Budd.
The music will start at 1pm and continue through to 9pm. There will also be a great choice of food, beer, wine and pimms for you to enjoy the music and entertainment with.
For those with small children, have no fear, as the festival will have all sorts for the little ones to do, including a bouncy castle, pets corner, face painting and loads more.
Camping is available and limited parking is provided.
For more information, go to The Lowde Music Festival Website for more details.
ACM plays host at The Great Escape 2011
ACM was once again proud to support THE best, and most extensive unsigned music festival in Europe. Held across bustling Brighton; The Great Escape is a multi-venue music festival, designed for music lovers who like their bands fresh, and their beats fresher.
This year, the ACM showcase was held once again at Brighton's famous 'Komedia Club', and saw performances from the likes of Jazz Morley, Oh So Quiet, The General, Brother and Bones, Trails and Coda.
Check out the video:
ACM Battle of the Bands Winner 2011
The ACM Battle of the Bands Competition 2011 saw a great mix of ACM bands take to the stage and perform in front of a capacity crowd at The Boileroom, Guildford's leading creative arts venue.
There were performances across three heats and a grand final which featured Skyskratcher, Charming Thieves, The General, Akakios, The Pulse, Trails, Atiptoe, Viperfish, Escapists, Mellor and Static Plan.
Fighting off all these contestants and claiming the 1st prize was Josh Edwards and the Language who won over the crowd with their acoustic, showgazy, folky performance. The band won £500 worth of Andertons Music Store vouchers plus recording time at a local studio. Congrats guys. Good job!
BeachBreak Live and ACM Presents...
For the fourth year running ACM are involved in programming the New Music Stage 'Club Tropicana' at BeachBreak Live Festival which runs from 16th-20th June in South Wales.
Club Trop is back! Showcasing an impressive line-up for 2011 this ‘unsigned stage’ is THE place to come and revel with the up and coming stars of the future who not so long ago were in your muddy Havanas, dreaming of being on that stage! The all new ACM Presents venue is all about ‘the music man’ and the chosen ones will surprise and delight you with their cutting edge performances. Remember kids, you seen it here first...
Stand out artists performing on the 'Club Tropicana Stage' this year are. Coda (Live Dubstep), Talking Pictures, Free Peace, Films of Colour, Cubrik, Brother & Bones and 8Fold.
Have a listen to this SoundCloud player to check out some of the artists performing:
or go direct to the soundcloud page here
Propellerhead pleased to present clinics at ACM on 10th May as part of "Music Making Month"
This May, Propellerhead's “Music Making Month” is a month-long set of activities to inspire and help people with their music creating endeavors, whatever they may be. During the month, Propellerhead will serve up a packed schedule with daily online events including interactive workshops, Q&A sessions with artists, new tutorial content, webcasts of live events and clinics from places around the world and much more. Activities are designed for any musician or producer regardless of production tools used or instruments played.
As part of the Music Making Month, Propellerhead will be presenting seminars at ACM on Tuesday 10th May. Presenters Mattias Häggström Gerdt and Gary Bromham will showcase Reason / Record and talk in depth about their specific expertise in the music industry.
Mattias Häggström Gerdt, also known as ‘anosou’, is a Swedish composer, arranger, multi-instrumentalist, Propellerhead product specialist and game enthusiast. With influences ranging from 60s minimalism via progressive rock to all kinds of electronic music, he creates music in a wide variety of genres for a multitude of purposes. Mattias has already started to make his mark on game music with numerous soundtracks composed, a heavy involvement in the game music arrangement scene and a strong tie to the independent game developer community. His scores for the game 'Cobalt' was nominated for the Excellence in Audio award at this years Independent Games Festival in San Francisco.
From Bjork, to Tina Turner, to Sheryl Crowe, Gary Bromham has worked with a best-of list in pop music over the years. His experience on large format mixers at Olympic Studios in London gives him a unique insight on how to approach mixing in Record 1.5's large mixer. Gary will show he mixes and the very musical decisions that one faces during such a technical endeavour.
To learn more about the Propellerhead Music Making Month go to: www.propellerheads.se/mmm
Students chosen as tour band for Kate Nash
Degree students Emma Hughes (bass), Carmen Vandenberg (guitar) and Fern Ford (drums) have all been chosen as Kate Nash's backing band for her forthcoming tour. They successfully auditioned through the BDC, securing permanent placement as the tour band for Brit winning female singer songwriter.
After intense rehearsals, the band will be setting off on a national tour. To see Kate live, click here.
Paul Geary and Rotosound at the London Bass Show
ACM Bass Tutor and Rotosound endorsee Paul Geary will be joining Rotosound on their stand at the London Bass Show on the 12th - 13th March 2011 at Olympia.
In between teaching here at ACM his busy schedule for 2011 sees him working away on a new studio album with Nik Kershaw and he’ll be performing at festivals with Nik in the UK, Denmark, Norway, Sweden and Germany. On top of that he’ll be appearing on TV and promo tours with Mary J Blige across Europe.
Jamiroquai Masterclass at ACM
Jamiroquai’s Paul Turner, Rob Harris and Derrick McKenzie took time out from promoting their new album 'Rock Dust Light Star' to visit ACM on Tuesday, 22 February. The multi-platinum selling band conducted a masterclass in their respective disciplines of bass, guitar and drums, with ACM students having the opportunity to watch the band perform live and demonstrate particular techniques, as well as posing their own questions, to gain invaluable one-to-one advice on how to succeed in the music industry.
Speaking about ACM, Paul Turner said, “We like to visit the academy as often as possible. It’s always a pleasure coming here and talking to the students. There is a lot of talent here.”
ACM’s Bass Guitar School Manager, Nik Preston, said, “ACM is excited to welcome back one of the UK’s most dynamic and respected rhythm sections. Paul, Rob and Derrick’s master class is always eagerly anticipated by the industry’s stars of tomorrow, and is bound to be hugely beneficial to all involved.”
Deptford John scoops TPi Award
At the TPi's 10th annual Production Industry Celebration in London our very own tech legend 'Deptford' John Armitage, who's been out recently on the Take That sell-out tour, was amongst the celebrated award winners receiving 'Backline Technician of the Year'. Props, Deptford!
Attracting over 1,100 people from over 200 companies from all corners of the live music business, the TPi Awards recognises the achievements of the most talented and successful individuals and service companies working within the industry.
Guitar Masterclass with Deptford John and Lee Pomeroy John recently took part in the BBC's Musicians' Masterclass 2011, where he talked about maintaining and repairing guitars and basses. You can watch the class on the BBC's Website.
John is also listed the National Skills Academy website. Why not have a look? click here
John's website is a virtual articulated lorry stuffed full of goodness which offers 'stadium standard guitar repairs for over 20 years'.
Keith Lowde
The staff and students of ACM are shocked and saddened to hear of the tragic death of Keith Lowde on 2 January.
Keith was the head of the Business School from 2002 until his retirement in 2009, after which he has continued to lecture in subjects including Entrepreneurial Practice and Music Industry Overview. He was a friend as well as a lecturer to his students, and his knowledge and enthusiasm were inspirational to everyone he encountered. Keith was also a hugely talented businessman, and made an immeasurable contribution to both ACM and the wider music industry over his long career.
While at ACM, Keith played a significant part in building the Business School from its inception to what it is today with over 500 students graduating during his time, many of whom now work within the music and media industry around the world. He was held in very high esteem and loved by students, staff and fellow tutors alike and will be greatly missed by all.
As well as his work at ACM, Keith was deputy chairman of the MCPS, and regarded as a world authority on international copyright management. He also worked with Performing Right Society, BPI, BACS and Equity as well as being involved with other esteemed publishers, record labels, artists and TV companies.
The thoughts of everyone at ACM are with Keith’s wife Jenny, his children Andrea and Martin, and all his family and friends at this difficult time.
Phil and all at ACM
(Phil Brookes is the Founding Director of ACM)
Universal Research Team at ACM
Universal Music Group's Research and Insights department made their second visit to the ACM Business School after recently setting students a project to research music consumption among students. Business school student Daniel Legere lead and formed groups...
Read more of this article at music business school news
Relentless Records at ACM
Relentless Records (part of Virgin Records) descended upon a marketing lecture where students have been working in groups creating marketing plans and online strategy for Relentless' newly signed artist To Kill a King...
Read more of this article at music business school news
ACM Awards 2010
Students, friends, family and industry partners were treated to awesome performances at the ACM Awards 2010.
Kicking off the night was the ACM Tutor Band with a funked up version of 'Long Train Running' which set the bar extremely high for the rest of the evening. They were followed by an astonishingly accomplished performance from the 13 year old band The Theory of Six Degrees who helped launch ACM Junior. We were then treated to a characteristically casual yet virtuoso performance from Newton Faulkner who performed his hit single 'Dream Catch Me' as well as two new songs and his own version of 'Bohemian Rhapsody'.
Throughout the ceremony 21 students received Outstanding Achievement Awards and hundreds of students had the opportunity to be acknowledged for their dedication to their studies at ACM.
Kicking off the night was the ACM Tutor Band with a funked up version of 'Long Train Running' which set the bar extremely high for the rest of the evening. They were followed by an astonishingly accomplished performance from the 13 year old band The Theory of Six Degrees who helped launch ACM Junior. We were then treated to a characteristically casual yet virtuoso performance from Newton Faulkner who performed his hit single 'Dream Catch Me' as well as two new songs and his own version of 'Bohemian Rhapsody'.
Throughout the ceremony 21 students received Outstanding Achievement Awards and hundreds of students had the opportunity to be acknowledged for their dedication to their studies at ACM.
ACM Awards Aftershow Party
The evening kicked off with the very wonderful Hearts Under Fire, then the fabulously talented Arcady Bliss took to the stage and Deville's filthy disco beats followed getting the party well and truly started. The mighty Coda made sure the venue was jumping right to the end with their flawless dubstep set. Rare!
Check back soon for live videos and interviews with all the acts on at The ACM Awards 2010.
The evening kicked off with the very wonderful Hearts Under Fire, then the fabulously talented Arcady Bliss took to the stage and Deville's filthy disco beats followed getting the party well and truly started. The mighty Coda made sure the venue was jumping right to the end with their flawless dubstep set. Rare!
Check back soon for live videos and interviews with all the acts on at The ACM Awards 2010.
ACM Students Rock the Set Top Box
There has been a fantastic week of ACM students, graduates and alumni performing on the tellybox across the UK. Kicking things off were amazing performances on top music broadcast 'Later with Jools Holland'. On the line up with Jools were guitarist Nick Tsang (the Ting Tings), bassist Ted Dwane (Mumford & Sons) and degree production student Ellie Fletcher (Crystal Fighters). Loads more on Jools' webpage. Check it out.
In X-Factor news, vocalist Geneva Lane is performing live on the show as part of girl band Belle Amie, Business student John Budding has played keyboards with One Direction and ACM Graduate Chris Leonard (Busted, Son of Dork) is Music Director for the house band. Brilliant work guys.
New ACM Artist Development Centre
ACM has expanded its facilities in Guildford recently, with the opening of a unique Artist Development Centre for its students in the town centre. The building houses creative resources and high tech facilities across two floors including:
• Demo Theatre
• Audient Recording Studio & Live Room
• 8 Practice Rooms
• Yamaha Keyboard Studio
• Music Business Lecture Room
This facility adds to the existing campus on Bridge Street, which comprises of Global House and the Rodboro Buildings. The building which was previously home to a major pub chain has been completely revamped by ‘Space-pod’, who created the inspiring Rodboro conversion back in 2000.
ACM’s focus has always been to integrate Music Industry and Education, providing students with career opportunities through its Business and Artist Development Team, and this new expansion will help to broaden the facilities available to the students.
Check out the Facilities page for more images of the Artist Development Centre.
CODA - A Dubstep Above The Rest
The ACM Battle of the Bands Final 2010 was another adrenaline-fuelled night in the ACM social calendar. The grand final of the competition saw Finding Sound, Deville and CODA take to the stage and perform in front of a capacity audience at The Boileroom.
After a tense public vote, CODA emerged the victors after a vibrant and energentic performance. The band netted £500 of music store vouchers and a 2 day recording session at a professional recording studio. Having survived the night, ACM's Drew Harding stated, "CODA are one of the most exciting bands I've seen in years! Surely destined for big things..."
www.myspace.com/codamusicuk
In addition the the Battle of the Bands event, ACM will be showcasing bands at the Electric Theatre, Guildford from 21st - 26th June (Higher Diploma) and 20th - 24th July (Diploma) 2010. Tickets are available online and from the Electric Theatre Box Office.
You can watch the almighty CODA performing at the ACM Battle of the Bands Competition on ACM TV
ACM Opens its Doors to the Industry!
ACM was delighted to welcome back a panel of highly influential music professionals for the annual Industry Link day.
The day gave ACM students the chance to chat to industry experts, offer demos, and build lasting network contacts in the comfort of the ACM campus.
Amongst the expert panel were Warner Music A&R Manager Ben Durling, and Good Groove and Disney Music A&R Tracy Fox, as well as Coda Booking Agent, Ollie Hodgson.
Neil Simpson, ACM's Business and Artist Development Centre Manager said:
"Developing your network of contacts is quite simply the core of everything your career will need in the music industry. Whether you are a performer, artist, producer or business person, your survival in the professional world is based upon not only the quality o the work you deliver, but also your professionalism and interpersonal skills. Industry Link serves to offer students a chance to talk to the industry on a level playing field."
Lick Library – Free Live Webcast with Guthrie Govan
Former ACM tutor and internationally recognised guitar virtuoso Guthrie Govan, is to present the next live webcast from Lick Library. This groundbreaking interactive event with live video and chat will start on the 5th May 2010 at 19.00 ( 7pm )
Lick Library have uploaded on to their You Tube channel clips featuring some of the web lessons, performances and interviews Guthrie Govan has done for them to wet your appetite. If you follow the links you can pre-register any questions here or enter it on the chat box on the webcast page as you watch the presentation.
Guthrie Govan, one of Lick Library’s guitar teachers, will play some of his tracks during the webcast demonstrating his command of the electric guitar and his huge technical ability. Guthrie is famous for his vast range of influences (Hendrix and Clapton through to Steve Vai to name but a few) and his latest album was described by Joe Satriani as “Totally freakin awesome!!!”.
You can ask Guthrie Govan a question and he will answer live on air and whilst you are there you can also interact with other Lick Library members as you enjoy the ultimate free guitar lesson.
To be a part of this awesome event register FREE online at www.licklibrary.com/webcastregister
and get those fingers moving in a new way!
Music Production Degree students supply music for 'Heroes; The Greatest War Movies Ever' DVD
Congratulations to first year Music Production Degree students Darren Jerome and Danny Owen for successfully securing a deal to supply top DVD distribution company Revolver Entertainment with the incidental soundtrack, & TV and online idents, for the release of fundraising DVD 'Heroes; The Greatest War Movies Ever'.
The DVD box-set, featuring movies such as Saving Private Ryan and Platoon, is on sale to raise funds to support the military personnel wounded in Iraq and Afghanistan. All profits from the DVD sales will go to the charity 'Help for Heroes'.
ACM on tour
It's the start of a new and exciting academic year! To get the new year well and truly swinging, ACM are going ON TOUR AGAIN!
Last year ACM travelled around the South of England visiting Schools and Colleges. To make the event that little bit special we took Rokhsan Heydari with us, a former ACM student and emerging artist who has played on the BBC Introducing stage at Glastonbury '08 and released her single 'You Look At Me' and ‚'Lately'.
Rokhsan gave live performances and shared her experiences as both a student and artist. We also gave a presentation about career opportunities in the music industry and how ACM's courses can help students find a suitable career path.
ACM ON TOUR has been a huge success so far and the schools and colleges we have visited have really enjoyed it and found it very beneficial for both students and local press oportunities. It's been a great way to promote an active interest in contemporary music to young people, encouraging them to begin playing and performing music.
We are now setting up our next tour! We will be taking Rokhsan and some new ACM artists with us for the trip! It is an opportunity you shouldn't miss!
To book an ACM artist to come to your school please email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call 01483 500861. Contact us ASAP because there are limited spaces and we know this will be a popular event!
"We're thrilled to have this opportunity to work with the ACM as it gives our students insight and knowledge about today's music industry."
Paul Søgaard - Music Teacher at St Peter's School in Merrow
All our students are taught not only their chosen discipline but what it takes to build a career in the music industry. The music industry is very broad and varied with career options ranging from artists, composers, producers and publishers to managers, record label executives, A&R, marketing and press etc. We would very much like to talk to your students about career opportunities in this field and to introduce them to ACM as a possible next step.
Steve Vai opens the brand new Steve Vai Guitar Studio
To honour Steve Vai's visit to the Academy, and his contribution to music, ACM is proud to announce the introduction of an all new Guitar Studio; The Steve Vai Guitar Studio. The all new state of the art facility, will boast a brand new Vai Legacy rig, a horde of signed Ibanez Jem Guitars, a healthy sprinkling of amps and other signed paraphernalia, courtesy of Steve himself and ACM's good friends at Ibanez.
This marks the beginning of a strong and ever growing relationship between The Academy of Contemporary Music and Steve who is keen to nurture his guitar studio for many years to come.
Steve had a message for the guitarists of the future; "This school is phenomenal. If you decide to come here, I think you are very fortunate because being in an environment with a lot of other musicians is a wonderful thing. These may end up being the best years of your life so enjoy them!"
