Tutor type: Cohort Tutors

Darren Neville

Darren Neville specialises in Games Design at ACM, bringing 15 years of industry experience, including a notable tenure at PlayStation. Darren finds joy in collaborating with aspiring talents entering the gaming realm. For students, Darren advises aiming higher than mere assignments, engaging in game jams or extra projects. Darren emphasises mastering time management, a crucial skill in the industry. Darren suggests immersing oneself in the extensive catalogue of Hideo Kojima, a renowned game developer, for valuable insights and inspiration.

Joe Downard

Joe Downard specialises in bass guitar at ACM, bringing a wealth of experience from their collaborations with acclaimed artists such as Jose James, Jordan Rakei, and Gregory Porter. Joe’s extensive credits also include performances with Nubya Garcia, Poppy Ajudha, and the BBC Big Band, among others. Joe emphasises ACM’s dedication to providing students with an industry-relevant education, highlighting the faculty’s real-world expertise, top-notch facilities, and strong industry connections. Joe encourages students to fully engage with the course and collaborate with their peers, believing that leading such experiences can enhance their creative journey at ACM. With Joe’s guidance, students can harness the dynamic learning environment to develop practical skills and knowledge essential for success in the music industry.

Lucy Jane Brown

Lucy Brown is a pop, rnb, and soulful singer based in Birmingham
who performs nationally and internationally, entertaining clients from weddings to
corporate events, to residencies at luxury bars and restaurants.

She began her career studying music at university. After leaving with a
first class BA Hons in Performance Industries, she then went on to teach
vocal techniques and skill with companies such as Yamaha and most proudly ACM!
Lucy performs multiple times a week in places such as Harvey Nichols, the BBC,
Level 25 at Marco Pierre Whites, The Mailbox, Albert Schloss, The Cube and many many more. Additionally, Lucy has filmed and recorded promotional material
for companies such as the Malmaison Hotel, ghost-written melodies and lyrics for major artists, taken centre stage at the theatre show ‘Ibiza nights’, alongside managing a huge pool of musicians for gigs locally. Lucy has lots of hands-on experience as a musician and creative.

Matthew Twaites

Matthew Twaites, specialising in Music Production at ACM, boasts over two decades of music industry experience, primarily as a sound engineer and producer, supplemented by roles as a musician and composer. With a diverse portfolio, Matthew has contributed his talents as a bass player for The Electric Soft Parade and collaborated with esteemed artists such as Mystery Jets, Lily Allen, and The Kooks as a producer and sound engineer. His guest composer credits include The Stephen Joseph Theatre, Matthew has also worked as a composer for Lift Music. Matthew values ACM for its exceptional tutors and staff. For students, seizing every opportunity, living their passion, and maximising collaborations with diverse artists are emphasised.

Ngaire Ruth

Ngaire Ruth, a veteran of underground cultural press since 1987, wrote for a publication that birthed notable figures in the industry. Contributed to Melody Maker from 1989 to 2000, maintaining columns like Musicians Diary and Studio Eye. Transitioning to online journalism and academia, focuses on taking music to market, gender issues in the industry, and research. Pursuing a part-time Masters in Creative Writing, scored exceptionally in assessments, leading to an upcoming book. With a PGCE from Bath University and a degree in Theatre/English from North London University, also holds a mentoring certificate and has taught at the University of Creative Arts. At ACM, values the personalised approach to learning, encouraging students to apply their unique perspectives to their work. Advice to students includes thorough reading of available resources, asking insightful questions, and embracing the intense learning journey.

Vince Hearn

Vincent is an accomplished music education professional holding a Master’s Degree in Contemporary Music Performance. With a rich background spanning various sectors and disciplines within music performance and technology, he brings a wealth of experience to his work.

As a skilled guitarist, Vincent has left his mark both on stage and in the studio, performing and recording with original bands and cover acts. His expertise extends to live sound and studio engineering, where he has demonstrated proficiency and creativity.

Beyond performance, Vincent possesses a keen understanding of music business development, having cultivated small to medium-sized enterprises for clients and established his own successful venture. His business includes a recording studio and contemporary guitar school, which have thrived since their inception in 2013.

Fuelled by his passion for music, art, and technology, Vincent finds fulfillment in the music education sector, where he can seamlessly integrate his diverse interests and expertise.

Leo Appleyard

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

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.