Since the age of 4, ACM Higher Diploma and Degree Alumni (Guitar – 2005) Ross Ewart knew that music would become a huge part of his life. Encouraged at an early age, Ross stumbled upon the guitar at 13 and knew it was the one for him and began playing all the music that was around and popular at the time.
However, the draw of improvisation, blues music and the buzz from playing live cemented Ross’ love and drive to do music full-time. ACM caught up with Ross to find out what he’s been up to since graduating ACM in 2005.
What motivated you to come and study at ACM?
As i was progressing i just wanted to learn more about my instrument and where i could take it. Having a good command over it seemed really important to me as it would allow me to take my guitar playing to new places. I decided to go to ACM as i knew people who had and were planning to go.
What was the best part about studying at ACM?
For me it was a mix of meeting people and having that instant access to lots of extra knowledge. There were things I was playing that I could actually put a name to at last and all this other stuff that really opened up my ears. I could now spot things that I’d heard players like Robben Ford and John Scofield play, which had been another motivating factor for me to attend ACM.
Tell us about what you’ve been up to since leaving ACM?
Since leaving ACM I moved straight to London to try and find work. It took a while but I managed to get by with some teaching and function work with the odd gigs here and there – it was touch and go and I took all the work that was put my way. There was always a good opportunity to learn something new on the gigs I was involved with and slowly I started building a larger pool of musician friends, which in turn led to more gigs and more session work.
Who have you been working with?
Lately I’ve been working with John Newman and Mikill Pane, with previous appearances for Frank Mccomb, I Blame Coco and Akon.
What’s been your proudest moment/career highlights so far?
There have been a few highlights so far. Playing Jazz Cafe with Frank Mccomb was definitely up there as he is an incredibly talented musician and I’d listened to his music while studying at ACM – for him to ask me to do the gig was a real honour.
Another highlight would be playing with one of the musicians off of my favourite track of all time ‘Pack it Up’ by Freddie King released 1974.
So what’s on the horizon for 2013?
2013 has and looks to be really busy as I’m booked in for a lot of festivals this year as well as lots of globe trotting which is always fun. I’m just happy to be playing and enjoying myself as that’s why i started this journey.
Do you have any advice or tips for our current ACM students?
To the current students I would say enjoy music, stay inspired and remember to take each opportunity you’re given to learn and get better at your craft. Also work hard to really meet your potential and your talent will inevitably shine through
Finally meet people and network, but don’t rush yourself into getting somewhere; pay your dues, stay level headed and be yourself.
ACM would like to thank Guitar Alumni Ross Ewart for taking the time to update us on his recent projects and we wish him well for his forthcoming work commitments. Follow Ross on Facebook and Twitter.
