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Your pathway

Music

Your Pathway

Music

Did you know that Access Creative College has been nurturing the next generation of creatives for 30 years? Formerly known as Access to Music, our name change a few years ago reflects our expansion into various creative industries. However, our roots remain firmly grounded in music, with impressive alumni like Ed Sheeran, our patron, Jess Glynne, Sam Bowden, the lead guitarist of pop-punk band Neck Deep and more.

Our musical legacy is rich, and our commitment to fostering creativity remains unwavering. Whether you aspire to grace the stage, record the greats in a studio, produce the next groundbreaking beats or contribute behind the scenes, our courses are designed to set you on the right track.

With state-of-the-art, professional-grade equipment set in high-spec recording studios, music labs, rehearsal and performance spaces, as well as combined decades of industry knowledge from our tutors to guide you through your studies, the path to your career dreams is right here waiting.

Tap into Access Creative College’s national network of creative, like-minded students and staff for collaboration, networking and support, and participate in our bespoke GoLive careers service to further boost your potential. You’ll also have opportunities to perform or work at some of the UK’s biggest festivals, including Latitude, Wild Paths and Harbour Festival, and you can even go on to our unique Artist Development programme after you finish, or get a guaranteed interview at our sister HE provider dBs Institute.

There’s nowhere better to start your music career than Access Creative College.

Discover where your Music course can take you.

Careers in Music

Did you know that Access Creative College has been nurturing the next generation of creatives for 30 years? Formerly known as Access to Music, our name change a few years ago reflects our expansion into various creative industries. However, our roots remain firmly grounded in music, with impressive alumni like Ed Sheeran, our patron, Jess Glynne, Sam Bowden, the lead guitarist of pop-punk band Neck Deep and more.

Our musical legacy is rich, and our commitment to fostering creativity remains unwavering. Whether you aspire to grace the stage, record the greats in a studio, produce the next groundbreaking beats or contribute behind the scenes, our courses are designed to set you on the right track.

With state-of-the-art, professional-grade equipment set in high-spec recording studios, music labs, rehearsal and performance spaces, as well as combined decades of industry knowledge from our tutors to guide you through your studies, the path to your career dreams is right here waiting.

Tap into Access Creative College’s national network of creative, like-minded students and staff for collaboration, networking and support, and participate in our bespoke GoLive careers service to further boost your potential. You’ll also have opportunities to perform or work at some of the UK’s biggest festivals, including Latitude, Wild Paths and Harbour Festival, and you can even go on to our unique Artist Development programme after you finish, or get a guaranteed interview at our sister HE provider dBs Institute.

Discover where your Music course can take you.

Careers in Music

Alumni

Over the last 30 years, ACC has had lots of incredible talent walk through our doors. Check out a small selection here.

Amy Love

Amy Love, half of the powerhouse duo Nova Twins, ignited her musical journey at Access Creative College London. Her story is a testament to both her individual talent and the transformative power of music industry education at Access Creative College.

Before co-founding Nova Twins with her best friend, Georgia, Amy pursued Artist Development at Access Creative College London. This innovative course laid the groundwork for the sonic revolution that would define their trajectory.

Since their formative days at Access, Nova Twins have ascended to extraordinary heights. Amy and Georgia have not only graced stages worldwide but also garnered prestigious awards, underscoring their innovative sound and electrifying performances.

Ed Sheeran

In 2007, a student at Access Creative College London embarked on an Artist Development course, completely unaware that they would blossom into a global sensation and household name in the music industry. That student was none other than Ed Sheeran.

Ed's introduction to ACC came through Music Industry Liaison Manager Ian Johnson, who recognised his special talent at a local gig in Norwich when Ed was just 16. Impressed, Ian connected Ed with a management company, leading to his inclusion in their roster. Encouraged by Ian, Ed moved to London and opted for ACC's Artist Development program, winning the Island Records emerging talent search ACC participated in.

IAMDDB

Diane De Brito, widely known as IAMDDB, embarked on her musical journey at Access Creative College Manchester, enrolling in our Vocal Artist course. Since departing Access Creative College, IAMDDB has made an indelible mark on the British rap and soul scene.

Beyond her musical endeavours, IAMDDB has delved into the business side of the industry, establishing the music management company 'The Waev'. Her commitment to sharing knowledge is evident through her engagements with Access’s students, providing insights in our GoLive masterclasses. IAMDDB's multifaceted journey serves as inspiration for aspiring artists within the Access Creative College’s community.

Sam Bowden

Sam Bowden, the accomplished guitarist for Neck Deep, began his academic journey at Access Creative College Lincoln, specialising in Music Technology. Initially enrolling in a Music Performance course, he pivoted to Music Technology, a move that significantly influenced Neck Deep's musical trajectory.

During his tenure as a touring guitar tech for Neck Deep, Sam seamlessly transitioned to the role of lead guitarist, learning eleven songs overnight. This impromptu challenge marked a turning point, propelling Neck Deep to new heights.

Lili Caseley

Lily signed a one-off single deal with Hoax, releasing "C'est La Vie" in April, which garnered attention on Selector Radio, BBC Introducing, and various other radio stations. To promote the single, Lily engaged in a series of virtual live shows for notable brands, accumulating over a million views during her performance at the Electric Girl Festival in China. This success resulted in a record deal offer from Electric Girl for China and its territories. Following the release of "C'est La Vie," the track gained momentum with a Louis La Roche remix and a garage remix by K1R3Y. The single's acclaim led to Lily signing with Lucky Break Records for the exclusive release of her single, "BaDoom."

Let’s Eat Grandma

Made up of Rosa and Jenny, Let’s Eat Grandma formed and recorded their first album, I, Gemini, in the studios at Access Creative College Norwich. Signed to Transgressive Records, they’ve released 3 albums, toured across Europe, the US and Canada, and played some of the world’s biggest festivals including Glastonbury, Latitude and Reading and Leeds.

JULIET

JULIET is an independent artist and writer. Alongside her music, she also works as an artist on school visits for Industry Education Music (IEM), working with music leads on delivering workshops. She also works to deliver events with a variety of organisations.

Hailing from South East London and now residing in Norwich, JULIET, now 19, has already graced stages at Latitude, The Waterfront, Wild Paths, Voodoo Daddys and Mostly Jazz festival in Birmingham.

$ebbuku

Seb is a rapper and producer who studied two courses at Access Creative College. He was our headlining choice for our opening ‘NEW NOISE!’ show (monthly sell-out shows at Voodoo Daddy’s) due to his incredible stage presence and charismatic performances. Seb is one to watch, so make sure you check out his music and get to a show.

Jorja Douglas (Flo)

Jorja studied on our Music Performance course before forming the UK girl group, Flo. Flo signed to Island Records in 2022 and released their debut single ‘Cardboard Box’. The band have since released their debut EP, ‘The Lead’, performed on Later With Jools Holland and Jimmy Kimmel, and at Coachella. They have also recently won the BBC Sound of 2023 Award for their single ‘Cardboard Box’.

Flyntz

Access Creative College Alumni Flyntz (aka Quacey Goodman, who appeared on Britain's Got Talent and received the Golden Buzzer) visited The London Campus last term and gave an inspirational talk to our Vocal Artist learners and then performed for them in our new state-of-the-art Event Space (G01).

Flintz talked about life as an Access Creative College student and how his time here shaped his outlook on life. He mentioned that the tutors inspired his creativity and gave him invaluable life decisions. His journey now revolves around spreading awareness about mental health and inspiring young people to make the most of their lives.

Dan Hodson

Dan Hodson is an alumni from Access Creative College’s Lincoln campus. He gave us an insight into his career as a drummer and how he also started his own music PR and marketing agency, SickSet Media.

Amalia Estradas

Amalia Estradas will be appearing on the next series of The Voice, and is currently rehearsing with Tom Jones.

Sam Gammon

Sam Gammon has had an exciting career in music retail since leaving Access Creative College. You can view his LinkedIn page below.

Jazmine Honey Banks

As lead vocalist for Jazmine Banks & The Wild Hearts, Jazmine has been turning heads within the industry and is a rising star. She is blending both classic country and new pop with her music, and is performing at Latitude Festival towards the end of July.

Imogen Bebb

Imogen is a freelance music journalist with many years of experience writing for publications including Electronic Sound, Shindig!, Electrokill Media, and Blitzed Magazine.
The A List

Student Work

Grace Donohue (Music)
Gift Johnson (Music)
LIVEWIRE Student Performance (Music)
Shane Brierley Armed Forces day (Music)
Micro Assassins (Music)
Lennon Andrews Composition (Music)
William Bastow Composition (Music)
Charlie H Audition (Music)
Competition for Media - T-Kai R (Music)
Battle of the Bands (Music)

Get yourself prepared

useful links

Here you’ll discover resources to help you prepare for your upcoming course and beyond!

Autochords

  • A simple and easy-to-use chord generator which works in various moods and keys. The browser tool generates 4 different chord progressions and all of the chords in any given key.
  • Perfect for: anyone that’s developing their music theory and needs to generate ideas quickly.

Bandlab

  • A free browser and app-based digital audio workstation. It’s a great alternative to other simple DAWs such as Garageband or Audacity. Its portability allows you to record from your phone or demo on the go.
  • Perfect for: simple and easy to use demoing and multitracking.

Get yourself prepared

Useful Links 

Here you’ll discover resources to help you prepare for your upcoming course and beyond!

Autochords

  • A simple and easy-to-use chord generator which works in various moods and keys. The browser tool generates 4 different chord progressions and all of the chords in any given key.
  • Perfect for: anyone who’s developing their music theory and needs to generate ideas quickly.

Bandlab

  • A free browser and app-based digital audio workstation. It’s a great alternative to other simple DAWs such as GarageBand or Audacity. Its portability allows you to record from your phone or demo on the go.
  • Perfect for: simple and easy to use demoing and multitracking.

Featured Article

5 Things to look for when choosing a music college course

Read now

Careers in Music

Performance

Music Artist

Musicians create and/or perform music in a variety of genres and styles. Musicians could be a composer, instrumentalist and/or a singer performing either to a live audience or in the studio.

Session Musician

Session musicians are for-hire musicians who perform with solo artists and bands but are not officially part of the group. Session musicians play on recordings, play in live shows, or both.

DJ

DJ’s work in the music industry playing at clubs, at festivals and on the radio, playing out music that may or may not be theirs, to promote dancing and having a good time.

Tribute Artist

Similar to how ‘cover bands’ play hit songs written or popularised by famous bands instead of their own material, ‘tribute bands’ do not perform original songs.

Classical Musician

Classical musicians perform, compose and/or conduct music, both recorded and/or live. They might play an instrument or sing live or recorded classical music, or do session work for backing tracks, adverts and films, conduct performances, or write music.

Songwriter/Composer

Songwriters write the words and music for songs, including songs for recordings, advertising jingles, and theatrical performances.

Composer - TV & Film

A film composer writes the score, which is the sum of all the original music going into a film. They’ll demo pieces of the score regularly to the film’s creative team for feedback on how it’s fitting into the scene and whether or not it will need to be rewritten. Film composers are also responsible for the recording of the film score.

Composer - Games

A video game composer writes evocative musical scores for video games. To do this, they will watch the game to see what’s happening onscreen and create music that brings up the appropriate emotions to match what’s happening in the game.

Lyricist

Lyricists use their knowledge of music and creative skills to write lyrics. Unlike songwriters, lyricists are not responsible for the instrumental sections.

Producer

Recorded music and record labels distinguish between an executive producer and a record producer. The executive producer is mainly responsible for business decisions and, more recently, organising the recordings along with the music producer, whereas the record producer produces the music.

Studio Engineer

Sound engineers combine technical knowledge with creativity and an excellent ear to create high-quality live and/or recorded sound.

Sound Designer

The sound designer is responsible for obtaining all sound effects, which are recorded or live, for a specific production.

Radio Broadcast Engineer

A broadcast engineer works with broadcast systems and hardware that are used across multimedia platforms.

Music Teacher/Tutor

A music teacher is a professional who teaches music as a subject in the school curriculum. Music teachers instruct students in practical methods and theory of general music, singing, and playing musical instruments.

Artist Manager

Artist managers shape their clients’ careers both in a day-to-day and long-term sense. They often help clients book gigs/events, plan album projects, orchestrate record releases and tours, create marketing and merchandising strategies, manage artist payments, and establish and pursue long-term career goals.

Tour Manager

A tour manager is a person who oversees a music tour. They are responsible for looking after tour finances, logistics (making sure people are where they should be), and generally managing the project from start to finish.

Label Owner/Manager

The label manager is a high-level record label project manager who coordinates the activities of departments and individuals in order to guide a musical project all the way from the early planning stage into the marketplace.

Merchandiser

A music merchandiser is someone who manages the merchandise for a music act. Depending on the scope of the artist, this could include designing merchandise like t-shirts or tote bags, to touring with them and selling the merchandise at performances.

Music Journalist

Music journalists are writers and reporters who focus their research on the music industry.

Social Media Executive

Social media is so important for musicians and artists, as it connects artists to their fans. Social media continues to give musicians the opportunities they previously could only have through record companies.

Graphic Designer

Graphic design complements a musician’s work by providing a visual representation that defines their brand.

Videographer

A videographer films video productions using video production equipment and edits raw footage using software such as Adobe Premiere Pro.