I’m currently studying a music performance and production course, which has allowed me to develop skills in the three major areas of the music industry – live music, composing and recording. I have also developed music industry and professional skills. I am a competent drummer with eight years of performance experience. However, more recently I have become interested in producing music, particularly on Ableton live.
During my current music course, I’ve explored a variety of different subjects whether that be performing jazz in a care home, to recording and mixing drums for my final project, these both have allowed me to enhance my knowledge of techniques and strengthen my confidence. However, throughout my time I’ve gained an affinity towards music production. Learning how to use DAWs such as Ableton have provided me with the most gratifying experience, and I now experiment with DAWs every day. Since purchasing Ableton, and other such software like modular synthesizers, I’ve spent numerous hours at home experimenting and creating interesting sounds, as this stems from my inherent joy of electronic audio. As well as sequencing, I’ve even recorded and mixed my own drums to then use for my final project in college, these both have given me a massively important insight to determine which discipline I want to peruse since I find them both highly entertaining.
Additionally, I’ve developed other areas of my course. I’ve been a part of performances in and out of college, which has exposed to me to stressful situations that I’ve dealt with very well. I’ve also experimented with some preproduction activities for instance projection mapping and live sound, such as setting up a pa system and mixing live instruments. These all have given me a much more varied experience in music and have enhanced my range of abilities to do more than just play an instrument. I’m also currently in the process of planning and delivering a 10-week tuition program and will be performing in a jazz ensemble music therapy, in a dementia care home. These will provide me with a much better understanding of communication, planning and professionalism.
Within my course I have curated an online portfolio consisting of my previous projects. I have gained experience in professional researching where I’ve studied my favourite group the Prodigy and what production techniques they use, as well as researching different genres of music. I’ve also critically assessed and evaluated my own work as well as presented it in professional manner within my own website. In addition, I have expressed a large amount of problem solving within my work where I ultimately decided to take It down a different path.
I currently work part time at Nando’s and have successfully balanced both college and work. Part time jobs have given me experience of working in a very stressful environment and I can now cope under pressure while still being able to work to a high standard. I am also a valuable team member and can communicate effectively with others.
After university my aim is to hopefully to secure a job within the music industry, the dream job being working in audio in the video game industry whether that’s the music or audio for a game e.g., sounds and effects, as they’ve always fascinated me, often more than the game itself.
In conclusion, I have excellent attendance and punctuality. I am also committed, engaged and will always try my best. I believe I will be a suitable candidate for a music production degree because I enjoy studying this subject and want to pursue a career in this field.