Bwinji Shamutete specialises in Games Art and Animation at ACM, holding a BA(hons) in Games Art and Design with a 2:1 degree. Bwinji highlights the outstanding facilities at ACM as one of its best attributes. Bwinji’s three top tips for students include watching a lot of tutorials, expanding their knowledge during individual study as the industry is constantly evolving, and never being afraid to ask for help.
Matthew Peters, also known as Mad EP, has made significant contributions as a performer and manager in prestigious concert halls worldwide for over three decades. Recently featured at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, Matt began their career while completing a degree in Cello Performance at Northwestern University (USA), becoming the youngest producer of the Chicago Symphony radio broadcasts in history. Notable roles in classical music include serving as the Midwest & West Coast booking agent for Columbia Artists Management and General Manager of the English Symphony Orchestra. Additionally, they manage artists through ABMC Productions. Under the moniker Mad EP, they are acclaimed for blending hip-hop, classical, and electronic music, with performances at festivals like Transmediale (DE) and venues such as the Knitting Factory (US). Matt’s pioneering show, “Tasty Cyanide Radio,” aired on Sub.FM for six years, further establishing their reputation as a music innovator.
AC, an MC from the UK living in London, rose to prominence after winning Best Breakthrough MC at the 2018 Drum & Bass Awards. With a remarkable entrepreneurial spirit, they sold over 50,000 CDs on the streets of the UK during the early 2000s DIY movement. AC’s music videos garnered significant attention, earning top 10 spots on MTV Base, Channel U/Aka, B4U, Zee Music, and Britasia. AC’s tracks received widespread airplay on stations like 1Xtra, BBC Radio 1, and Kiss FM, often securing top 10 rankings on the BBC Asian Network chart. Renowned for their versatile hosting skills, AC has shared the stage with esteemed DJs such as Brockie, Andy C, and Grooverider at premier Drum n Bass events like Innovation and Breakin Science. Beyond music, AC has made forays into the visual arts, contributing to animated series for Cartoon Network and Channel 4. AC also dabbled in directing and editing music videos and launched their clothing brand, Ace’s High, promoting self-reliance and positive mental attitude.
Justin Lyndley embarked on their journey in recording studios during the early 90s, immersing themselves in various roles including Producer, Engineer, Mixer, Re-mixer, Mastering Engineer, and Musician. Their artistic endeavours led to the release of records as an Artist on Wall of Sound Records, accompanied by extensive touring and DJ performances. Justin’s professional repertoire extends to roles as a Sound Supervisor at SKY and RT, complemented by training as a therapist at Humaniversity in Holland and a degree in Fine Art (Sculpture). With a profound commitment to education, they have honed their expertise in Higher Education, contributing to the development of Music Production degree programs and earning qualifications such as a postgraduate certification in HE Teaching and Learning (PG cert HE) and recognition as a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA).
Nic Britton embarked on their journey in Music Production in the early 90s, serving as an Engineer at Network Records in Stoke-On-Trent. During this period, they collaborated with luminaries of Detroit Techno and Chicago House, including Kevin Saunderson and Juan Atkins. Later, Nic became an integral part of the production team TILT, contributing to remixes for renowned artists like Mel C and Dido. Their portfolio boasts five UK Top 20 singles and a UK Number One remix. Over the years, Nic has worked with major record labels like Sony/BMG and Universal, alongside underground labels such as Pro-B Tech. They have also ventured into equipment reviews and masterclasses, sharing their expertise with aspiring musicians. With a teaching career spanning since 2006, Nic brings a wealth of experience to their role at ACM, nurturing the next generation of music technologists. Currently, they are engrossed in various projects with TILT, including collaborations with members of a prominent Manchester band and composing theme music for an upcoming documentary on a major streaming platform.
Leo Appleyard, a highly skilled guitarist and producer based in London, UK, boasts an illustrious career performing at prestigious venues like Ronnie Scotts and The Barbican. Trained in jazz guitar at The Royal Academy of Music – London, and the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, Leo has collaborated with diverse artists across genres, earning recognition for their work featured on platforms like MTV France and BBC London. Winner of ‘Best Original Song’ at the Los Angeles International Short Film Festival, Leo is also a dedicated educator, holding the position of Professor of Guitar at the Royal Military School of Music. At ACM, Leo specialises in production, guitar, and keys, benefiting from top-notch facilities and access to a variety of expert tutors. Leo emphasises the importance of a strong work ethic, networking, and embracing musical and financial diversity.
Joel Harris, an accomplished Electronic Music Producer, DJ, and mix and mastering engineer, specialises in Music Production and Games Audio at ACM. With a career spanning several years, Joel has garnered recognition for his releases under Joel’s ‘Books’ alias, with critical acclaim for his album ‘Station’ in 2018. Joel’s innovative live performances, blending dictaphones, Walkmans, and cassette tape loops, showcase Joel’s creativity and improvisational skills. Joel’s collaborations with notable artists and Joel’s freelance work as a mastering engineer underscore Joel’s versatility and expertise in electronic music genres. Holding a Master’s in Music Technology, Joel’s passion for sound design and games audio is evident, further enhanced by their completion of the Wwise certified trainer program. At ACM, students benefit from Joel’s wealth of industry experience and their dedication to nurturing talent through workshops, facilities, and collaborative opportunities.
Tobias Alexander brings a wealth of experience to his role at ACM, with a rich background in teaching, performance, and studio work. With two undergraduate degrees and a Masters Degree in music, Tobias has honed his craft both in the UK and abroad. Tobias’ drumming prowess has seen them collaborate with renowned artists like Suzi Dian and Soweto Kinch, while touring extensively and supporting acts like the Noisettes and Calvin Harris with their band This Beautiful Thief. Tobias’ studio recordings have even been featured on Sky Films. At ACM, Tobias specialises in drums, performance, hybrid drums, and industry links. Tobias values ACM’s progressive approach, always striving to prepare students for success in the industry. Tobias’s top tips for students emphasise taking musical risks, creating their own opportunities, and actively supporting their peers’ projects, both digitally and in person.
Matt Jones, a professional guitarist and studio owner, brings a wealth of experience to ACM as a specialist in guitar and music production. With roots as a former ACM student, Matt boasts 13 years of guitar teaching expertise and 7 years as a studio recording engineer. Matt values ACM for its vibrant community and top-notch musicians. Matt’s advice for students includes collaborating with colleagues, attending masterclasses for valuable insights, and prioritising reliability, as future opportunities often arise from within the network.
Neil Bullock, mentored by the esteemed drummer Mal Garrett from the Birmingham Conservatoire, embarked on a professional drumming career at just 17. Neil’s talent garnered recognition through awards such as the Musicians’ Union ‘Most Promising Young Musician’ and the BBC Big Band ‘Best Drummer Prize’. As a member of the Midland Youth Jazz Orchestra, Neil performed at prestigious venues like the Montreux Jazz Festival. He honed his skills further under the tutelage of the legendary Joe Morello and Jim Chapin in New Jersey. Neil’s career highlights include touring with Chuck Berry as part of The Red Lemon Electric Blues Band and supporting acts including Robert Plant. Neil has collaborated extensively with the BBC Big Band, showcasing his exceptional drumming prowess both live and on radio broadcasts.
