Tutor type: Performance Tutors

Scott McGill

Scott McGill is a versatile guitarist, educator, theorist, author, and researcher with a rich background in pop, rock, metal, jazz, blues, and classical music. Specialising in guitar, research, theory, education, performance, and songwriting/composition at ACM, Scott’s experience is extensive. As a guitarist, Scott has worked with notable artists like Robert Hazard and as a solo recording artist with esteemed bassists and producers. Scott has also published research in jazz theory and pedagogy, drawing from their private studies with renowned jazz theorist Dennis Sandole. Scott values the individualised attention given to students at ACM and finds inspiration in his students and colleagues. Scott’s top tips for students emphasise goal-setting, hard work, integrity, and self-belief.

Tobias Alexander

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.

Rob Harral

Rob Harral is a performer and writer renowned for his captivating live performances and songwriting prowess. With a track record spanning prestigious festivals like Glastonbury, Boardmasters, and Shambala, Rob supported artists on national television and radio platforms. At ACM, Rob specialises in live performance and nurturing creative artists. The best part about ACM for Rob is the vibrant community of aspiring musicians. Rob’s top tips for students include diving wholeheartedly into their endeavours, seeking guidance from experienced tutors, and making the most of every opportunity available.

Neil Bullock

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.

Matt Jones

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.

Mark Taylor

Mark Taylor, a keyboard player and music director, began their career touring with The Lords of the New Church and The Alarm. They served as music director for Sinead O’Connor during her ‘Nothing Compares to You’ tour before joining Simple Minds for nearly three decades. Additionally, Mark contributed to Elton John’s album ‘The One’ and accompanied them on a two-year tour as second keys. Throughout their career, Mark has collaborated with artists like Echo and the Bunnymen, The Cult, Jimmy Cliff, and Belinda Carlisle. Their session and writing credits include work with Chris Difford, Marti Pellow, Mark Knopfler, and Robbie Williams, among others, and they recently collaborated with Mick Jones and Rotten Hill Gang.

Jon Duff

Jon Duff brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the realm of drumming. With a notable presence in Rhythm magazine, Jon is renowned for their mastery in timekeeping, groove playing, and innovative techniques that yield rapid progress for aspiring drummers. As a dedicated drum tutor, Jon plays a pivotal role in guiding students through the comprehensive drum course curriculum, focusing on essential skills such as playing to a metronome and refining tone production. Their hands-on approach and commitment to nurturing emerging talent underscore their dedication to advancing the art of drumming and empowering students to reach their full potential on the drums.

Nat Martin

Nat Martin, with 35 years of music experience and 33 years of guitar playing, is a former ACM student who excelled in their studies, winning Student of the Year and achieving a distinction for his BA Honours Degree. As a mainstay within the faculty of ACM Guildford and a former teacher at ACM London, Nat specialises in Blues Guitar. Nat’s extensive credits include collaborations with artists like Jo Harman, Sam Barks, and Robert Fripp, showcasing his versatility across genres. Nat’s contributions extend to educational materials, featuring in the forthcoming Rockschool 2024 Electric Guitar syllabus and existing acoustic guitar and ukulele syllabuses. Nat believes the best thing about ACM is the opportunities it offers to hone one’s craft. Nat’s top tips for students emphasise networking, pushing boundaries, and considering future prospects.

Giorgio Serci

Giorgio Serci is an acclaimed guitarist, composer, and arranger whose versatility spans across genres from jazz and pop to classical music. Renowned for their exceptional talent, Giorgio is in high demand internationally, having performed with esteemed artists such as David Garrett, Basia, and Martin Taylor, among others. As the co-founder of Bansangu Orchestra alongside saxophonist Paul Booth, Giorgio has garnered critical acclaim with their highly praised CD and headline performances at major festivals worldwide. With compositions performed and recorded by notable artists and ensembles, including Basia and the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, Giorgio boasts an impressive discography comprising six CDs. Additionally, Giorgio contributes as a columnist for Guitar Interactive Magazine and proudly endorses Yamaha and Fibonacci Archtops, with an imminent release of their signature model. Their remarkable career credits further underscore Giorgio’s status as a revered figure in the music industry.

Ben Scott

Ben Scott has worked at the international level of music performance for over a decade, recording or performing on drums with some of the UK and USA’s most prominent pop artists – notably Ed Sheeran, Tom Walker, Declan J. Donovan, Alex Winston, and Bülow. Ben is currently the musical director and drummer for pop artist St. Lundi, as well as fronting his own boundary-pushing solo show ‘The Ultimatum Experience’ where he performs at corporate events across the globe. Ben also enjoys writing and producing from his studio in South London as part of his own artist project and with an array of up-and-coming artists.