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Home , Artful Dodger (duo), As I Am, Beverley Knight, Camille Purcell, Carla Marie Williams, Chris Difford

Songwriting & Artistry Music in motion across pathways ACM AMBASSADOR “I am incredibly proud to be part of the ACM family. The Award-winning songwriting credits include opportunity that ACM provides ’’ and ‘Black Magic’ is something I could only have (), ‘Ring Ring’ (Rich the Kid feat. dreamt of when I was starting Mabel), ‘Solo’ ( feat. Demi out, so I am excited to share my Lovato), ‘What About Us?’ (), knowledge and experience with and many more. the brilliant students at ACM.”

2 Contents

Camille Purcell, ACM Abassador ...... 2 Foreword ...... 4 The Leadership Team ...... 6 Spotlight On: The Leadership Team (Songwriting) ...... 8 A Message From Emma-Louise Bucknor ...... 10 Songwriting & Artistry Tutors ...... 11 Message From Ace ...... 17 Spotlight On: The Role Of The Modern ...... 19 Spotlight On: A Songwriting Camp ...... 21 Spotlight On: Benefits Of Collaboration ...... 22 Spotlight On: Anatomy Of A Modern Songwriter ...... 24 Spotlight On: A Production-Led Writing Session ...... 26 Spotlight On: Cross-Pathway Collaborative Writing Camps ... 28 Spotlight On: Metropolis ...... 30 Message From Metropolis CEO Richard Connell ...... 33 Spotlight On: Metropolis Blue ...... 34 Spotlight On: Facilities & Sponsors ...... 35 Spotlight On: Girls I Rate Songwriting Weekender ...... 36 Spotlight On: Discovery & Development ...... 37 Spotlight On: Industry Link ...... 38 Spotlight On: Songwriting Career Options ...... 39 Student Testimonials ...... 41 We Are ACM ...... 42

3 what our future is going to look like, you Foreword will see jobs that you may be aiming for now disappear by the time you qualify Dear Prospective Student, and graduate. And equally, while you are studying, you will see new kinds My name is Kainne. As ACM’s Executive of jobs being created and maybe even Chairman and owner, I’m here to whole new industries emerge that you promise that whichever one of our didn’t previously know about, creating campuses you choose to study at, we’re new opportunities for the future. a totally unique institution, providing a real-time and immersive industry- It is my fervent belief that unless based education that is compiled and education, at the very least, keeps delivered by a collaborative community pace with, if not one step ahead of, the of artists, creative industries speed of development of the world professionals, researchers, and and of industry, then it is bound to fall learning support specialists. You won’t behind and become irrelevant. And it is find this mix in any other educational my experience that a lot of institutions establishment. and mainstream universities find themselves in that very position, simply My background is technological, because of the way they are configured, creative, and entrepreneurial. My thus not being able to read the direction passions are education and the arts. I’m of travel within industry, unable to also the owner of Metropolis, Europe’s connect with it or influence it. largest recording complex, and am thus now able to bring together two of the ACM, on the other hand, is geared world’s leading music institutions in the for change. We are really proud to shape of ACM and Metropolis, for the have a unique composition of industry benefit of our students and the fast- professionals, occupying highly growing creative sector. This sector is influential positions in both the responsible for more than one in nine outside world and ACM, that are new jobs created in this country, and intrinsically linked into the development contributes more than £100 billion to of our curriculum and assessments, our economy. In another part of my and therefore into your journey, as one life, I invented the world’s first black of our students. The point I am making box recorders for signalling within is that by the time you come to the transportation systems – so I now have end of your journey with ACM, you will a very unique view on the world, as I am already be on solid ground with first- not only a creative, but also an engineer. hand experience within the industry. I have seen so many jobs disappear in You will have the most rounded and my time and seen so many new ones immersive view of what is going on, being created – and this is the point I and you will know exactly where and want to make to you all. While you are how you can apply your creative talent, studying in a fast-changing world where knowledge and skills to add value. technology is fundamentally changing

4 Over 25 years, I have interviewed more aspects of the creative arts industry. My than 3,000 people and employed more pledge to you is that we will bring all of than 1,000. And during that time, I these elements together to give you the have never once read one résumé. I best possible insight into the creative have only ever relied on my intuition, industries, a multi-layered contact my gut instinct, and my ability to look network of professional peers to equip at the person before me and watch you for your own personal journey into them connect with what it is that drives the creative industries, and to prepare them, what makes them passionate, you for the world of work. and where their embodied learning is coming from. You cannot read this I could not be more proud of what ACM from a piece of paper; you can only has been able to achieve over the past witness it by sitting opposite somebody four years. We have grown from 800 and listening to how they connect students to more than 2,000 across with your vision and values, and what three locations – which by 2020, I am it is they have learned to add value proud to say, will be four, with even to your organisation. My promise to more international connections. My you is that ACM understands this, careful management of our growth above and beyond anybody else, and means that we’re still small enough understands how to equip you with the to care, but big enough to make a skills necessary – from communication difference. Come along and see this and problem-solving to resilience and for yourself at an Open Day soon. We collaboration – to be able to negotiate are equally proud to have Metropolis and navigate through our beautiful, but within our group, which is simply the sometimes brutal, creative industries. most incredible artist development hub, connected to every continent and We put together the most unique every major player in industry, from and compelling workshops in which labels to managers to A&R execs, as different roles and specialisms connect well as independent artists across all to collaborate at a level that no-one genres of music. From inspiration to else can achieve. We include creatives activation, our Grammy Award-winning and executives of international acclaim engineers help Metropolis power much from all corners of industry, from of industry, as well as wider music to brands to fashion to film to creative industries including Television gaming to publishing. If you can just and Brands. It’s already a critical part picture for a second what it takes to lift of our organisation, and could and launch a brand: it takes so many soon become a critical part of your learning journey at ACM. Your journey to your career in the creative industries starts right here, and I am looking forward to meeting you.

Kainne Clements Executive Chairman, ACM

5 The Leadership Team

The leadership team are a diverse group of highly experienced individuals from across the creative industries, each specifically recruited to lead and ensure continuous development here at ACM.

Every member of the team holds an influential position within the music industry, and uses a wide range of skills, experience, contacts and know-how to ensure that our learning experiences are progressive and immersively connected to the real-world creative industries.

We are a team of experts with high-status reputations that open doors, and have literally been there, done it, and are still constantly interacting with the music industry.

We collaborate together to identify exciting opportunities and create student pathways that combine to form a multifaceted structure, ensuring innovative learning at a world-class level.

Learning by doing is key at ACM, and earning by doing is also encouraged and facilitated while you study through our many platforms.

Working alongside an exceptional team of highly skilled tutors, we are collectively leading the way in music industry education here at the heart of ACM.

6 Leadership platforms for 2019/20 Collab – A brand include: new app that Metropolis Blue – aids creative Our student-run collaboration between our 2,300 students ACM Production Library – Earn as you learn with our new online production portal Podcasts – Facilitated by our Radio – In-house student podcast community radio team, an integral station part of education and wellbeing

Internship and work placement scheme

New module Masterclasses / development – Industry events – As new areas of Focused workshops business evolve, immersed in industry so do we

Industry networking

Industry Link – ADCO – Artist Guidance and Development & structure for Creative Output student live events

Discovery & Development – Development for creative students

7 SPOTLIGHT ON: The Leadership Team (SONGWRITING)

Tim Hawes Background: Songwriter/producer, Ivor Novello Winner, The , , Hearsay, , Best advice: “Go into sessions armed with a good concept and title, which will ignite a session and avoid a blank canvas.”

Emma-Louise Bucknor Background: Vocalist/songwriter, Jazzie B, Soul II Soul, , Omar, Debbie Harry, DJ Spen Best advice: “Stay in control of your career.”

Iwan VanHetten Background: MD & producer, Brooklyn Essentials, Sister Sledge, Best advice: “Know what you are doing, and why you are doing what you are doing.”

Tanya Lacey Background: Songwriter/performer, Will.i.am, , Jennifer Lopez Best advice: “Don’t be afraid to take risks, and keep your ego in check.”

8 Tony Briscoe Background: Mentor, producer (, , ) Best advice: “Be good and kind and appreciate others, and opportunities will come your way.”

Kieron Pepper Background: Drums (The Prodigy, 1997-2007), bassist (Sleeper) Best advice: “A little goodwill and empathy can go further than you might think.”

Anna Brooks Background: Brooklyn Funk Essentials, Larry Graham, Bootsy Collins, Kool & The Gang Best advice: “Knowledge is power.”

Ace Background: Guitarist / Songwriter, Best advice: “If someone else can do it, YOU can do it!”

Victoria “ViX” Perks Background: -songwriter, Fuzzbox (the UK’s most successful band of all-female instrumentalists) Best advice: “Soak up every bit of information about all areas of music and the business.”

Meet the other leadership team members on our website: www.acm.ac.uk 9 A message from Emma-Louise Bucknor

My name is Emma-Louise. I’m part of ACM’s leadership team, as well as a vocal tutor.

My career spans over many years, working alongside the UK’s living legend, Jazzie B, as part of the Soul II Soul movement. I have headlined the Summer Soulstice Festival, appeared on Talk Radio’s Badass Women’s Hour, and topped the Traxsource charts with my covers of Des’ree’s “You Gotta Be” and Dexter Wansel’s “The Sweetest Pain”. I work with music producer DJ Spen, and am preparing for my debut release after the success of my singles “Elevation” and “Flowered Tears”, which charted at Number 2 in the UK Soul Charts as well as achieving ‘Track of the Week’ status on BBC6 Music and MiSoul. From , , and pop to classical, soul, RnB and , I have worked with artists like Alicia Keys, Omar, Debbie Harry, , , George Nooks, and Sanchez.

At ACM, you will learn how to structure songs and how best to write for yourself and others. You will explore inspiring ways to work collaboratively with creatives of all kinds.

Being an artist, and learning all aspects of the music business, means you are the driver of your career train. People can come off and on, but ultimately you know where you are going. You know your plan, and therefore nothing and no one will stop you getting to your destination. Stay in control of your career.

I look forward to working with you when you’re here with us at ACM.

Emma-Louise Bucknor Campus Leader

10 worldwide success with chart hits “Pink Songwriting & Sunshine”, “International Rescue”, and “Rules and Regulations”. Fuzzbox have Artistry Tutors appeared on , The Old Grey Whistle Test, Going Live, Blue Peter, and many other TV shows – and (Guildford) ViX herself has appeared on Never Tim Hawes is a Mind The , as well as touring songwriter and the world while sharing the stage with the likes of , , who has achieved Fun Lovin’ Criminals, The Wailers, over 10 million Madness, Kylie, and Ginger Wildheart. record sales including No. 1 singles. As an Ivor Novello winner, Tim has “Soak up every bit of information really proven himself in the world about all areas of music and the music of songwriting, and now helps ACM business. You never know what you students do the same. Tim has worked might gain from it!” with The Spice Girls, Five, Hearsay, S Club 7, Sugababes, , No Jamie West- Angels, Aaron Carter, Aggro Santos, Oram (Guildford, Jimmy Blue, Stephanie Heinzmann, ) TVXO, Tata Young, Girls’ Generation, After moving to Kis-My-Ft2, Boys24, and a long list of London in 1977, others. Jamie toured and recorded with Roy “Go into sessions armed with a good Hill, Philip Rambow, and Robin Scott concept and title, which will ignite before helping form The Fixx in 1980. a session and avoid a blank canvas. More than three decades after they Ensure that your “songwriter’s formed, The Fixx are still regularly antenna” is always up, observing what writing, recording, and touring goes on around you in life and listening the world. Jamie has also worked to other people’s conversations as you extensively as a session musician, seek out the gold dust for your song.” collaborating with artists including , Laurie Anderson, Tina Victoria Turner, , Kirsty MacColl, “ViX” Perks Cyndi Lauper, Stevie Nicks, and (Birmingham) . ViX has been a professional “Making a song accessible is not singer-songwriter selling out. You are simply doing your since the age of 15. job properly by trimming, building, and She is a member of Fuzzbox, the UK’s creating momentum.” most successful band of all-female instrumentalists, who rocketed to

11 Brian Henry headphone brand; and published a book (Guildford, – all through his own company, DiY London) Gang Entertainment. He was recently Brian is a highly invited into Parliament to speak on experienced behalf of grassroots music venues musician, session across the country. In 2017, ShaoDow keyboard player, received the AIM Award for Hardest musical director, songwriter, arranger, Working Artist. He has opened for the and producer. He has toured extensively likes of , , , over the last 15 years across the UK, and more, while his live shows have Europe, Japan, South East Asia and taken him across the UK, Europe, and America. His career credits include Asia. international artists such as Grammy winners Soul II Soul, José Feliciano, “I guess I’m here to give y’all some Omar, , Kool and the advice on how to make a sustainable Gang, Gabrielle, Des’ree, Mica Paris, living from your music. Yes, I’ve , Jimmy Somerville, Lalah achieved that so far, but I’ve made Hathaway, Belinda Carlisle, and The mistakes and learnt a lot of lessons SOS Band. For the last seven years, along the way. It wasn’t so long ago that Brian has been the musical director/ I was where you are currently, so I’m keyboard player for the Let’s Rock hoping to save you some time by giving Retro Festival in Europe. He has you the benefit of my experience. I’m produced and remixed music for many also here to support the rappers, MCs, artists, including by D’Angelo and lyricists, and make sure you get and Method Man, Chanté Moore, and some attention too. I’m ALSO here to do Big Punisher. ninja stuff. Don’t ask me what.”

“Work hard at studying music, and Nic Britton don’t limit yourself to genres or trends. (Birmingham) Embrace it all, and hopefully out of that For the last 25 your own signature sound and style years, Nic has will appear. Good luck!” been part of the TILT production ShaoDow team. He has (Guildford, worked on numerous UK Top 40 London) records, remixes, and co-productions ShaoDow (Shaa- with artists like Paul Van Dyk, Perfecto, ow-dough) is Mel C, Jeff Wayne and Dido. His latest a professional of ’s “Summer of Love” landed rapper and manga in the Top 10 US Billboard Dance Chart. author, noted for his unique appearance on Radio 1’s famous ‘Fire in the Booth’. He self-released three , which sold more than 25,000 copies; created a

12 Darrin Woodford sold-out festivals across the globe. (Guildford, Tony is a skilled producer, working London) with up-and-coming UK artists Darrin has worked out of his Birmingham-based Zion in the music recording studio. He collaborates with industry for over international artists, and has well- 20 years and established links with projects and specialises in artist development at artists in Atlanta, USA. record labels, music publishers, and management companies. His most “Your network is your net worth!” notable successes include signing Feeder, Roisin Murphy, Moloko, I Am Ben Scott Kloot, Ray LaMontagne, The Blackout, (London) Funeral For A Friend, Black Rebel Whether he’s Motorcycle Club, , Baby laying down the Bird, Utah Saints and the Acoustic drums on Ed compilation series, achieving a number Sheeran’s multi- of platinum, gold, and silver albums platinum-selling and top five hit singles along the way. album +, co-writing the lead single for Darrin discovered and managed Jay American singer Alex Winston’s debut Jay Pistolet (The Vaccines), and is album, recording as in-house multi- currently working with Feeder & Grant instrumentalist with award-winning Nicholas in a management and label producer Charlie Hugall, or touring the capacity while running Discovery and world with exciting new artists, Ben Development for Industry Link at ACM. approaches all of his work with huge optimism and energy. Over the past “What I love most about the music year alone, Ben has been involved with industry is hearing new songs or a new rising Canadian pop star Bülow and the artist, and then hopefully helping them. UK’s Tom Walker, having drummed for That’s why I love being at ACM, as I get the latter at his landmark 2018 show to do this every day.” for the BBC’s Big (among a number of other festivals); played Tony Biggz sold-out headline shows with ethereal (Birmingham) cinematic-pop star Astraea; and also Known primarily taken on the role of musical director as Birmingham with London’s finest up-and-comers. legend MC “Knowing, but not doing, is actually not Biggie, Tony knowing. I repeat this phrase to myself has shared the stage with electronic nearly every day. In an industry as music heavyweights such as DJ SS, chaotic as the music business, it’s all Chase & Status, Simon Bassline Smith, down to you to make it happen!” Ronnie Size, and many more. He has toured extensively, performing at

13 Jono McNeil Stasys Sliauteris (Guildford, (Birmingham) London) Stas is primarily Jono provides a drummer, innovative vocal songwriter, coaching for and performer a large range involved in various of professional singers, television rock, blues, jazz, indie, electronic, and contestants, contemporary recording contemporary projects. He is currently artists, and musical theatre writing and playing his own material, performers. His varied portfolio has having graduated with a BA (Hons) in seen him coaching for UK Performance Industries. Stas has long and The Voice Kids, among other been a regular on the function circuit in talent shows, along with his role as a Birmingham, and is currently releasing senior lecturer at the ACM. An artist music with his bands Sorry Grace and and singer in his own right, Jono Whitelight around the UK. His main has performed with , focus is developing the art of playing Michael Bublé, Josh Groban, , drums and synth simultaneously, , , , and he is always interested in Jocelyn Brown and Reel People to experimenting with new gear. name a few. He has also released three studio albums, and performs Matt Twaites regularly. Passionate about creative (Guildford, expression, new sounds, and innovation London) in singers, he presents workshops Before making his and masterclasses for many industry name as a veteran institutions, including The British Voice of the London Association and The Voice Council, and studio scene, Matt has been featured on the cover of the began his career at Metway Studio in iSing online magazine. Brighton. He has worked with Mystery Jets as a producer, and engineered sessions for the likes of , The Saturdays, Superfood, and The Kooks. He has played bass in The Electric Soft Parade for over 18 years, works as a composer for multiple clients, and also has his own North London studio.

14 Mark Taylor Little Mix, , The Saturdays, (Guildford) MNEK, Donae’o, , , Mark Taylor , Jodie Aysha, Laurel, is a keyboard and Sherry Davis, and produced for player and labels such as Universal, Warner musical director. Chappell, Boost, and Counter Music. He started his SShea is now producing liquid drum career playing with The Lords of the and bass under the alias Iklektix and New Church and , touring ambient bass music for library sync extensively around the world. He purposes, with ongoing syncs for worked as musical director for Sinead networks including BBC, BT Sport, O’Connor on her Nothing Compares 2 Discovery Channel, ITV, and U tour, and then joined , Channel 5. taking on keyboard duties for nearly three decades. Mark was asked to “If you want to learn play on ’s album The One, from real-world and joined Elton on a two-year tour as a second keyboardist. He has also industry professionals, played with artists like Echo and the choose ACM.” Bunnymen, The Cult, and Jimmy Cliff, and has had a long association with Kaya Herstad- Belinda Carlisle. His session and Carney writing work includes , Kaya comes Chris Difford, , and Mark from , Knopfler to name a few. Mark recently and developed worked with Mick Jones and Rotten Hill her career to Gang. become an established artist with a track record “Songwriting is a job – so let’s go to of performances including the Royal work!” Variety Show, BBC Songwriting Showcase, and Liverpool Sound City, Shea Stedford working with artists such as , Bon Shea has been Jovi, and Ringo Starr. She toured as a a producer, DJ, solo artist and with her band, Science of and engineer the Lamps. She has appeared alongside with over ten Brett Anderson (Suede), Noah and the years of industry Whale, The Wombats, Lamb, The Farm, experience. He and John Grant. Her songs have been holds multiple DJ residencies across included in plays and feature films, Europe, and has worked for production which won her three awards and six houses such as and Jiant nominations. She has become a highly whilst engineering in studios including sought-after vocal coach over the past Streaky Mastering and Chapel Studios. ten years, and specialises in artist He has engineered for artists including development.

15 16 Message from Ace As Director of Creative Industry Development here at ACM, I’m able to create the perfect connection between what the creative industries need right now and how we feed the most up-to- date industry insights into the curriculum in real time, while providing opportunities for students to learn by doing and mould and activate their future careers while they study at ACM.

Skunk Anansie independently released our 8th LP in January this year after completing a successful press tour of Europe. We are now about to start writing the next LP before embarking on a major European tour – and we have been able to forge a long-standing and successful career by embracing industry changes and using all the tools at our disposal, both within and around us, to create a self-sufficient operation fuelled by a variety of income streams.

Creating a sustainable career in the music industry has always been my thing. And after 25 years strong, I think the proof is in the pudding. A good portfolio and transferable skills are key to this. Understanding the business you are in and how to navigate it to derive a working income is an essential part of it too, as well as future- proofing yourself to survive the constant change in demand and new opportunities ahead in the industry.

Being part of an industry panel at a songwriting camp or being able to provide opportunities heading up the Industry Link department for students afterwards is a rewarding and fulfilling part of my job here at ACM.

My motto has always been: if someone else can do it, YOU can do it!

Ace Director of Creative Industries Development

17 18 SPOTLIGHT ON: The Role of the Modern Songwriter

The role of the modern songwriter for all those involved to be in agreement as a storyteller, a reporter of history as to how songwriting splits should as it is being written, and an artist be shared. This should ideally be who captures aspects of the human taken care of at the earliest stage of condition as we embrace and the songwriting process. The music perils of social media, political changes, business is often painted as a harsh and and constant cultural evolution as ruthless world, and with good reason – worlds collide and flourish, has never but a little goodwill and empathy can go been more important. Collaboration is further than you might think, and even key to great songwriting, whether that be the key to a sustainable long-term concerns a group of people in a single career. room, a pair of co-writers sharing ideas over email, or a solo writer requesting Many don’t want to think critical feedback from other musicians about the money they’ll make from a and writers whose opinions they trust. song while they are creating something from the heart – but considering Being open to ideas and taking the audiences, commercial appeal, and the time to explore the message and value of spreading messages of hope, ideology of the lyric is also important love, or frustration to as many people when collaborating – especially when as possible will stand you in good stead considering the target audience, for success and a long career. the language used, potential radio edits, political sensitivities, and the A solid song that easily translates responsibility of influencing fans and across genres, contexts, and young listeners. The modern world can instrumental arrangements can be change almost beyond recognition in an covered by different artists and ensure incredibly short space of time, so being further income, kudos, and popularity. in tune with the vibe of the present moment is essential. Open eyes and a However, there are no guarantees or mindful attitude are just as vital as open rules – it’s about capturing the zeitgeist ears and imagination. and timing of the release of the track, and the size of the impact that will It’s also important to acknowledge guarantee longevity and repeat plays. where each song idea came from, and

19 20 SPOTLIGHT ON: A Songwriting Camp

A typical ACM songwriting camp would During the day and breaks, industry be held over one or two days, often guests are invited to meet our students with a theme or specific genre focus. to give advice and critical feedback, Sometimes we would be working to and the day ends with a playback up-to-the-minute industry briefs for celebration, with final comments from the world’s leading artists looking for the ACM team and industry panel to new songs, other days we would be help the teams assess and reflect, encouraging experimentation, mixing and actions given to continue fine- diverse genres and vocal styles. tuning their work, some of which would hopefully be at a level high enough to For one-day camps, the order of actually pitch to industry opportunities. the day would start with a welcome and introduction, setting out the Business students would be involved in parameters, etiquette, and schedule, the planning, links to industry, artist/ and placing the students into small producer/songwriter liaison, and groups of artist (singer/rapper), following up the results and possible producer, and songwriter (lyricist/ placement. topliner). Musician students would be helping on The groups will then move to their the writing day as session musicians, breakout spaces, set up by tech or in other workshops connected to the services students, which would include camp, preparing live arrangements a Mac with latest versions of industry for additional studio recordings or live standard DAWs, a condenser mic, stage performances. piano, guitar and writing materials.

21 SPOTLIGHT ON: Benefits of Collaboration

22 Inspiration the perfect framework for students to Collaboration allows us to feed off develop a disciplined work ethic and others’ inspiration and creative crucial organizational skills. energies, which act as catalysts for our own creativity. Commitment Dependability and commitment to a Learning shared creative endeavour can promote There is no better way to develop harmonious workflow, and create your craft than actively learning from a sense of balance in terms of the others in a practical and hands-on distribution of input, making it more environment. People will give their likely that an ongoing partnership will tricks away during a session – and you be formed in the process. can learn to master those tricks too. Decision making skills Communication skills During collaborative sessions, The ability to communicate with others decisions must be based on the in a non-aggressive way, and adapt bigger picture and not one’s personal your style of communication in order preference. This is particularly to connect with different personalities, important when working to a specific is intensified in creative collaboration. brief that requires a specific outcome. Precious ideas and big egos can call Decisiveness itself is equally vital; a for great diplomacy. Furthermore, group’s inability to make decisions can the musical language of the extended quickly lead to a lack of flow and a loss collaboration group enhances of collective confidence. communication skills across all disciplines, helping students internalise Flexibility the 360-degree language of project Flexibility and adaptability are development. not always inherent skills in the songwriter’s toolbox – but they are Diversity valuable when aiming to achieve Collaboration increases your chances a defined goal in a collaborative of creating completely new material, environment. and can enable you to work in different musical genres. This allows you to Politics expand your creative toolbox, while Songwriting camps expand your working with talented and interesting industry network by helping you to characters whose skillsets complement meet new collaborators with their your own. own networks – as well as labels, managers, publishers, etc. The chances Time management skills of becoming a part of someone else’s As every project has a specific journey to success are increased deadline, writing camps help instill through this expanded network. the importance of time management in the creative mind. They also provide

23 SPOTLIGHT ON: Anatomy of a Modern Songwriter

Meeting musicians

Offering services Seeking out for experience Opportunity

Networking

Songwriter

Business Skills

Music business Contracts stakeholders awareness

Income stream Release planning awareness Market opportunity Collection society awareness awareness

Branding and promo

24 Audio recording DAW knowledge & editing

MIDI skills Basic mixing and mastering

Production Skills

Collaboration

Communication Soft Skills Decision making

Adaptability / flexibility Compositional Skills

Skills underpinned by Lyric writing music theory knowledge

Harmonic Rhythmic construction construction - chords Topline construction Genre-specific - melody composition skills

25 SPOTLIGHT ON: A Production-led Writing Session

Music Singer / Songwriter Producer Sessions

Setting up a good Start from scratch Writing studio atmosphere (Tailor idea to the Collaboration (PPD Skills) artist brief)

The artist either writes alone or with help of the producer or a specialist top line writer(s)

Start with Writing the beat Collaboration

The producer presents a number The top line writer of prepared backing can provide the tracks to the main hook melody rappers or singer and/or the lyrics for / songwriter to the song choose from

26 Jam session with A good knowledge the artist to create of music theory is fresh ideas required here

Musicianship Top Line Session Keyboardist Skills Writer or Guitarist

Additional Production After the writing session, the producer can add some additional Mastering parts before mixing

Top Line Quick Writer Recording

Final Mix This requires the A vocal producer is producer to be another specialist quick on the DAW to role to help the Vocal Composing capture vocal takes artist create the whilst keeping the best takes in the flow of the session studio Vocal Producer

27 SPOTLIGHT ON: ACM’s collaborative writing and production camps are designed to facilitate learning for students across pathways. The camps will Cross-Pathway replicate industry practice, with a view towards maximising the potential of work by combining Collaborative multiple skillsets and expertise, while linking to project-based assessment. The individual Writing Camps pathways will each be connected through the camps as laid out below:

28 Business & Innovation Musician Business students will source, develop, Students on the Musician pathway will and conceptualize briefs. They will take part in the recording process, also make the presentation at the start providing their skills and insights to the of the camp, outlining the briefs and writing teams. This will call upon their discussing the business aspects of session skills across multiple genres, collaborative work, including writing alongside the development of soft skills splits, PRS, PPL, production contracts in a collaborative environment. Further and publishing considerations. Each provisions will be made for musicians writing/production team will have a and singers through session skills / Business & Innovation student as part improv workshops. of the team, as an advisor/consultant in relation to project development. Under Creative Artist the mentorship of ACM camp mentors, Creative artists, alongside producers, Business & Innovation students will form the core of the writing teams, also provide A&R feedback at the leveraging their songwriting skills playback stage, and then again at the to meet the requirements set out in debrief stage after external project the brief. Songwriters will, where completion. possible, be matched to writers with complementary skill sets, i.e. Producer topline melody writers with lyricists Production students will be or music composers. Creative artists collaborating with creative artists will collaborate with producers to and musicians to produce a piece of design a time management plan for music according to the brief set by project completion along with business Business & Innovation students. There mentors. will be two producers in each team, so as to extend the learning curve Technical Services both in terms of technical/creative Technical Services students are on skills and collaborative/personal hand throughout the various sessions, development skills. Producers will be providing technical support. They expected to include two live instrument will ensure all writing and recording components within the song/recording, sessions run smoothly from an so as to facilitate musician involvement equipment perspective. They will also and to develop the language of music take responsibility for setup and sound and collaboration. They will also record for the live playback at the end of the the vocalists. In line with real-world camp. From a learning perspective, practice, the producers will finalise Technical Services students experience editing and post-production following a practical scenario wherein they can the camp, to a specific deadline ahead hone their skills. of the debrief.

29 SPOTLIGHT ON:

What do , Queen, Kendrick conferences, and recording during Lamar, Winehouse, , The downtime. Production students at Rolling Stones, , ACM also get the chance to visit , Elton John, Noel Metropolis for bespoke masterclasses Gallagher, , Paul and events, where Grammy Award- McCartney, , and Mark winning engineers such as Liam Nolan Ronson all have in ? They and Paul Norris explain recording are just some of the many global techniques for live instruments such artists who have made music at as drums and piano, as well as mixing Metropolis Studios. Established in masterclasses involving hands-on 1989, Metropolis – located on London’s desk and audio equipment instruction. Chiswick High Road – is Europe’s There are also session sittings and largest studio complex, where over masterclasses with our Grammy 50% of the UK Top 40 Chart is mixed, Award-winning mastering engineers mastered, and/or recorded in an in their personal studios as well. average year. Subject to availability, masterclasses from industry professionals held in Thanks to the fact that our the upper floor bar area, covering such organisations share a Chairman, topics as sync, A&R, and general music ACM students enjoy an access all business advice related to individual areas pass to Metropolis for live career pathways, are included during performance events, industry these visits.

30 Meet The Team “If you want to learn from industry professionals Paul Norris - Chief Engineer GRAMMY who live and breathe the Award, Rihanna’s creative industries every ‘Unapologetic’ album. single day, choose ACM.” Zayn Malik, Alicia Keys, , , David Guetta, , , . John Davis - Mastering Engineer Liam Nolan - Engineer Latin GRAMMY - Best 2 GRAMMY Awards, Latin Pop Album: Jesse Adele’s ‘25’ & ‘Hello’. & Joy - Un Besito Mas. Adele, Clean Bandit, Music Producers Guild , Kylie ‘Mastering Engineer of the Year’. The Minogue, Paloma Faith, Killers, Led Zeppelin, U2, Royal Blood. . Tim Young - Mastering Tony Cousins - Engineer Mastering Engineer GRAMMY Award, Music Producers Guild ’s ‘Love’ ‘Mastering Engineer 5.1 Surround. Music of the Year’. Robbie Producers Guild Williams, Seal, Suede, ‘Mastering Engineer of the Year’. TEC , , , Award for Madonna’s ‘Music’ and The Bat For Lashes, Alfie Boe. Beatles’ ‘Love’ 5.1 Surround.

Matt Colton - Alex Robinson - Studio Mastering Engineer Engineer Music Producers Guild Chris Rea, Elton John, ‘Mastering Engineer , of the Year’. Arctic Pharrell, Mary J Blige, Monkeys, Thom Yorke, Emeli Sandé, , , George Michael, , , Nick Jonas, , , Hot , Muse, Will.i.am / & Peter Gabriel, Tinie Peter Gabriel. Tempah.

31 32 multiple projects, means that I Message from understand what creative businesses need: Creative problem-solvers and Metropolis CEO innovative thinkers who can operate in Richard Connell a highly volatile environment, equipped with the smarts required to evolve and My name is Richard Connell, and I am adapt. At ACM, we prepare our students the CEO of Metropolis Studios and a for this reality, thus future-proofing member of the leadership team at ACM. their careers.

When I was about 18, I realised that The industry itself is deeply embedded music was the most important thing in into the ACM curriculum, creating my life, and I wanted it to be my job as a unique structure that facilitates well. So I totally understand the sheer extremely valuable educational passion that drives this ambition. For experiences. Every week, the me, it began a career in music that has leadership team meets to discuss spanned over three decades. new developments in the industry and ways of reflecting those developments I have worked exclusively on the in our classrooms that very week. label side of the business, from small It’s real-world learning by doing, in independents all the way up to major real time – and this up-to-the-minute corporations. During this time, I topicality reflects the quick, flexible, was Vice President of Marketing for and incredibly innovative nature of the , General Manager creative industries. for the Sony Commercial Music Group, CMO of UK, and Managing We need to keep pace with the creative Director of Epic and Associated Labels. industries in order to prepare our I have worked with many acts from students for the speed at which they the Foo Fighters to , must operate in professional creative Beyoncé, Pink, , and One environments. ACM’s curriculum Direction, taking creative visions is different from other educational and broadcasting them to the widest options. It’s creative, not conventional, possible global audience. My role within and delivered by an institution that is the leadership team at ACM is to bring itself geared for fast-paced changes. all of this experience and network to the curriculum, and make sure that we not Change by its very nature is the one only remain relevant, but also support, thing you can count on when working enhance, and encourage our students’ in the creative industries, especially passion – the same passion that drove music production. I am proud that me – of the way. change is something an ACM student is encouraged not only to embrace, but My experience of running hugely also to lead. The one way to predict the effective marketing teams, delivering future is to invent it. global marketing campaigns on

33 SPOTLIGHT ON: metropolis.blue Metropolis Blue

Metropolis and ACM have created an keep industry aligned with our plans, exclusive record label initiative called discoveries, and releases. Metropolis Blue, which is designed to support all students who want to We work hand in hand with all major release music. labels and distributors, as well as platforms such as Spotify, enabling us Metropolis Blue is run entirely by the to have a direct and consistent link into students, for the students, across all industry. pathways, and is split into divisions and roles to reflect the workings of a real Each division of the label has a real- working label. From A&R to PR, design, life industry mentor, and we hold promotion, booking, law, and more, regular Metropolis Blue workshops there is a role for everyone – ensuring and masterclasses for the team so they that our students are learning by doing, receive expert guidance, knowledge, in line with the ACM ethos. and experience from a plethora of real- life working professionals. We hold bi-weekly label meetings alongside A&R workshops to discover Metropolis Blue is a truly fantastic new talent, aided by the ACM incubator for both creative and Discovery and Development team. business talent. We hold showcases each term, and

34 SPOTLIGHT ON: “Immerse yourself in world-class Facilities & Sponsors facilities at ACM.” ACM is proud to have formed strong industry partnerships with leading manufacturers and key brands at all of our campuses. These partnerships and relationships extend further than the provision of great gear for students to work with in classrooms and studios. They also involve knowledge exchange, placements, masterclasses, employment, and the process of feeding each partner’s state-of- the-art technology directly into the curriculum through co-written modules and electives with our top industry focussed educators.

35 SPOTLIGHT ON: Girls I Rate Songwriting Weekender Founded as a movement to create a BBC 1XTRA & SBTV’s presenter Nadia platform for women and girls to let Jae. Songs constructed by the girls at their creative voices be heard, Girls I the workshop were then listened to by Rate was devised to bring influential a crowd of A&R executives, publishers, creatives together to form a stronger and managers. The weekender's female presence within the music purpose not only empowered the future industry. Its founder, Carla Marie of females within the industry, but was Williams, is a Grammy-nominated also a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to songwriter who has collaborated learn from the very best. with some of music’s biggest names, including Beyonce, , “I want to give girls across the world and Sigma, to name a few. In 2018, the as many opportunities as possible movement opened its doors to female that I didn’t have growing up. I want songwriters aged 16-30 for a two-day to encourage more women to pursue songwriting weekender. A selection of their dreams, and help decrease the ACM’s very talented girls were hand- imbalance of female songwriters and picked to attend the workshop, and producers at PRS, which is currently were also met with a mixer hosted by 17% female.”

36 SPOTLIGHT ON: Discovery & Development

Learning by doing ACM’s Discovery & Development is the real-world music industry experience where students aspiring to be artists and music industry execs learn to scout, manage, and promote the newest and brightest ACM talent.

What you'll get out of it The aim is to create the real-life experience of managing and launching the career of an artist, giving students first-hand knowledge of working in the music business. Also, if you are an ACM act, you will get bespoke mentoring to help you develop your talents and promote your music.

How it works D&D is extracurricular, will take place throughout the year, and will involve a variety of tasks including putting on gigs, industry showcases, photo shoots, and creating video assets, websites, and marketing plans. It is mentored by Darrin Woodford, who has signed and launched a host of Gold and Platinum-selling artists. Over the last few years, our panel of D&D industry guests has included senior executives from Columbia, BMG, Universal, Kobalt, Ministry of Sound, PIAS, PledgeMusic and Republic of Music, which has led to exciting industry opportunities.

37 SPOTLIGHT ON:

Industry Link is an essential part of the Networking is essential when learning experience for songwriters at ACM, pursuing a career in the music helping students to develop their writing, industry, and forms a key part of the performance, and networking skills. We ACM experience. Industry Link has host regular songwriting camps, during set up partnerships with the BBC, which tutors can help shape ideas into hits Tileyard Studios, and many more by providing expert feedback and hands-on industry institutions in order to offer help. our students unique opportunities to rub shoulders with music industry If you’re looking to hone your performance professionals, including artists, skills and kick-start your career, you’ll managers, and agents. We can be pleased to hear that Industry Link also offer advice on release plans, work with music and events venues local digital service providers, rights to every ACM campus, including The management, and anything else you Boileroom (Guildford), The Cavendish may be struggling with. Arms (London) and Asylum (Birmingham). We also run weekly acoustic/songwriter With a department made up of active nights at Jamie’s Italian in Guildford, as and highly connected music industry well as development workshops such as the professionals, we will always be Lightbulb Sessions, where students can get able to guide you throughout your advice in a more personal environment. musical journey at ACM!

38 SPOTLIGHT ON: Songwriting Career Options Here are just a few examples of the many career paths related to the songwriting role in industry.

• Singer-songwriter / artist-writer • Library music composer • Songwriter in a band • Staff writer in publishing company • Writing to a brief for others • Musical composer • Topline writer • Jingle composer • Lyricist • Installation / exhibition music • Sync / TV / Ad music composer composer • writer • Freelance songwriter • Songwriting coach

39 40 Student “I really enjoyed the Catalyst Songwriting Camp as it was great to Testimonials work collaboratively with new people and to get the chance to see what real “The Songwriting Camp was such a world briefs are looking for. It was such great experience for me. I enjoyed a great opportunity.” every single second of it, and I 100% Mica Bernard would take part again and recommend it to any of the songwriting students at “As a second-year Creative Artist at ACM who have yet to attend. The day ACM, it was a privilege to be a part of definitely taught me about coming out the Catalyst Songwriting Camp. It was of my comfort zone in terms of being such a great opportunity to collaborate diverse and trying new genres. My with other new creatives on real- group chose the K-Pop brief, and it was life briefs that allowed us all to gain honestly one of my favourite sessions. professional industry experience. I will The energy and communication definitely be attending the next one!” between myself and the rest of the Bethia Ward team was great, and I would totally work with them again. We also received “Thanks for having me on the Catalyst great feedback from the industry panel, Songwriting Camp again, it was another which was really encouraging for us.” great experience and opportunity! My Kadian Foster group worked really well together, as we found skillsets we lacked “It was a fantastic experience, individually, we had as a group, and absolutely loved it. I met new people this helped us make a great product. and made great connections. Sign me Throughout the day, all tutors proved up for the next one and I'll be there!” to be helpful by making sure we were Jade Sardinha on track, and gave small suggestions, although they didn’t over-guide us. The “I had a really good time yesterday. The industry guests for the day gave great producer I was teamed with and I found feedback, and it was nice to have a chat we worked really well together, and with them.” complemented each others strengths Samuel Towner and weaknesses – so we're planning on doing some more projects together “I really enjoyed the Songwriting going forward. Hearing everyone's Camp and would love to take part tracks at the end of the day was also again, should the opportunity become a really good way to hear different available. I’m still working with both vocalists, to keep in mind for songs I the people I met there, and they’re might want to pitch in the future.” incredibly talented!” Jessica Newson Mari Dangerfield

41 WE ARE THE EXPERTS Hand-picked tutors, all dual professionals with expertise in their respective sector of industry as well WE ARE INDUSTRY as education Industry-led masterclasses Industry Leadership Team, Internships and work immersively connected to the placement programme creative industries Monthly industry networking & events

WE ARE INNOVATIVE Collab: Our brand new creative networking and We are collaboration app

WE HAVE WORLD-CLASS FACILITIES Multiple recording studios, post-production suites, practice spaces, lecture theatres, and MIT suites

State of the art equipment provided by brands such as Apple, Fender, Yamaha, Roland, Tama, Audient and Marshall, to name a few Metropolis Studios, London – Europe’s largest independently-owned recording studio complex The Electric Theatre, Guildford – A 210-capacity auditorium kitted out with an HK sound system, staging, drum risers, and tiered seating WE LEARN BY DOING WE EARN BY DOING Metropolis Blue – Our student- ACM Production Library – Earn run record label as you learn with our new online production portal Podcasts – Facilitated by our student team, an integral part of education and wellbeing Radio – In-house community radio station

Internship and work placement WE ARE ALTERNATIVE scheme Pioneering two-year accelerated degrees (Guildford, Birmingham) Our Extended Diploma courses are worth the equivalent of 2 A* grades at A-Level

WE PROVIDE GREAT PASTORAL CARE AND SUPPORT MENTAL HEALTH WE ARE ON IT Award-winning Student We are synchronised with real- Services team world industry opportunities Mindfulness and wellbeing and key events integrated within the Modules are constantly curriculum updated and developed on an ongoing basis

WE ARE COMMUNITY WE ARE PERSONALISED LEARNING Comprehensive outreach We treat our students as individuals programme Our unique curriculum offers over Community events and 160,000 unique module combinations work placements We build bespoke study programmes Charity projects for every student, based on their background and personal goals Amp Studio |GUILDFORD ST |BRIDGE BUILDINGS RODBORO THE creative. creative. GUILDFORD. Lyricist BV Session singer Session MD SongwriterSoundtrack Topliner acm.ac.uk

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BIRMINGHAM. BIRMINGHAM. | 01 483 500 800 500 483 Lyrics Publishing Harmony Melody education. Ensemble METROPOLIS. |

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