Having spent over a decade playing the bass guitar, playing in a number of bands and studying music at school, ACM Bass Higher Diploma Alumni Matt Aston (2010) is beginning his career in music as he started it; with dedication and focus.
ACM caught up with Matt to talk about his experiences at ACM and what he’s been up to since leaving in 2010.
What motivated you to come and study at ACM?
I’d heard from other students that it was a great environment to meet like minded musicians, to be taught by great teachers and to help you towards working as a musician. When I eventually joined ACM these reports were proved correct. I was surrounded by, and got the chance to play and learn with other great musicians who were just as eager to better themselves as I was!
Tell us about what you’ve been up to since leaving ACM?
Since completing my bass course at ACM I have been playing for a few up and coming artists and involved in a number of recordings and gigs. I’ve kept in contact with and worked with a few ex ACMers and most recently I’ve been with Alex Torjussen playing on tour with singer/songwriter Lucy Spraggan. Both of which have been definite highlights for me; getting to perform with Lucy and Alex who are both fantastic musicians is a lot of fun and hopefully this will continue throughout 2013!
In between these commitments, I’ve also been working as a private bass tutor and getting involved in function gigs.
Do you have any advice or tips for our current ACM students?
My advice would be to try and find the balance between practicing, socialising and jamming. Hanging out and becoming friends with the right people within the industry is very important, but of course being able to back up your musical skills is a must so practise, practise, practise.
ACM would like to that Alumni Matt Aston for getting back in touch and sharing his progress with us and we wish him well for all his forthcoming projects. For more information about Matt Aston follow him on Twitter and Facebook.