I chose NWRC because the facilities for the music courses were better than any that I’d previously seen in any of the other colleges and universities that I’d been to. It was also closer to home which enabled me to continue working.
Name
Matthew Crampsey
Where are you from?
Culdaff, Co.Donegal
Course studied at NWRC?
Level 3 in Popular Music and then I progressed to the HNC/HND.
Previous Education before you came to NWRC?
A very average Leaving Cert
Why did you choose to study Music at NWRC?
I chose NWRC because the facilities for the music courses were better than any that I’d previously seen in any of the other colleges and universities that I’d been to. It was also closer to home which enabled me to continue working.
Did you consider going straight to university? What made the HND so attractive?
I did. In fact, I’d been offered a place at all my choices but I decided to choose NWRC. The course itself is much more practical than any of the other courses that I’d looked at, and as a performer that’s what I wanted most.
Tell us about your course
Both the Level 3 and HNC/D courses were very practical. I’m very much a person that learns by doing so it benefited me greatly. As well as performing, we also learned how to set up venues for performances, use the sound equipment needed, and manage the organisation and marketing of the events.
There’s also great pride in the history of music in the course and I thoroughly enjoyed looking back through the years and seeing how the development of music and technology was coinciding with the history of the world.
The HNC/D performance and production students worked very closely together so I also learned a lot about music production, as well as becoming proficient with DAWS and music software.
What did you do afterwards?
I actually went to Leeds College of Music after the HND, after I graduated I was very lucky to be able to work full-time as a musician. I’ve been releasing original music and performing often.
Most recently I’ve joined a band called “Ceol” and I’m looking forward to seeing where that takes me.
Would you recommend your course to other students?
Most definitely, if you’re a performer who feels they need a chance to grow and become better then this is the course for you. The lecturers have a wealth of knowledge and experience that will help you reach your potential.
As well as that, the atmosphere in the college is one that I’ve yet to experience anywhere else. Meeting and working with like-minded people will do more for you than you can even imagine.
Follow in Matthew's footsteps
Make your mark with a course that excites you, challenges you, and prepares you for career success.
