Angel Lawson
Music Performance and Production
My lecturers have all had experience in the music industry.
What attracted you to studying music at Kent?
When I started looking at universities, I found that a lot of places made me feel isolated and I didn't have that feeling at University of Kent. I felt at home within seconds of being on campus. All the students and staff were so welcoming on the open day I attended. I think the Music Performance and Production course is quite special as well because I'm able to explore music production alongside performance, which allows me to navigate different career routes with every single module.
What do you like best about your course?
The fact that there's no exams; all assessments are done through coursework. I find this beneficial on such a practical course (especially as a kinaesthetic learner) because it allows me to put what I'm learning into practice straight away.
My course also allows me to constantly change my performances to suit my interests, whether that be through my instrumentation or through song choices and, as a musician still finding her feet, I think this is extremely important! We also have the option of choosing an elective module (a module from a different course) as long as you have the prerequisites. In my second year I chose to study a module on music journalism, press and PR from the Music Business and Production degree programme.
What do you think of the facilities for your course?
The facilities at Kent are amazing. We are so lucky to be able to study using the equipment we do because it's all industry standard. We use equipment ranging from Marshall amps, Fender Rhodes pianos to Neumann microphones and they're all available to students to rent out for projects whether that be through the University or outside.
How would you describe your lecturers? What do you think about the level of support in your studies?
My lecturers have all had experience in the music industry and I am so thankful that they let me pick their brains apart and learn from their experiences. They try to set up opportunities for us however they can to ensure we're getting as much support as we need. I know if I need a hand or some advice I can book a meeting with them and they'll try and help.
Do you belong to any clubs, societies or sports teams?
I attend Music Society at the Deep End on a Tuesday night; it's one of my favourite parts of the week! There's a different theme each week and anyone can perform anything related to the theme. I think my favourite theme so far has been eighties night! It's a really fun way for all music students to socialise but also a great way to mingle with people from other courses. I was also a part of Pop, Rock and Soul Choir last year and we came up with some really cool arrangements of songs like 'Waiting All Night' by Rudimental and 'Blinded by Your Grace' by Stormzy.
Have you used the University's Careers and Employability Service? What kind of support have you received?
Yes, I recently had an appointment with Careers and Employability. I wanted to discuss possible career paths with them and gain an understanding of what skills I would need for each one so I could tailor my third-year module choices to accompany these. They made me feel very at ease and supported me through the process.
What kind of career do you hope to follow when you leave?
When I began university, I was considering a career as a session musician. However, as a result of the modules I've taken, I've realised that my passions lie within community music and music journalism. I am currently thinking I'd like to be either a music therapist or a music journalist – or maybe both through a portfolio career!
Have you got any advice for somebody thinking of coming to Kent?
Coming to university can be scary so I found it really helpful to get involved in clubs and societies because it's a way of meeting people and making new friends. And don't be afraid to reach out to people if you're missing home – there's a great support system at Kent and no one wants you to feel alone!
Angel Lawson is in her second year studying Music Performance and Production.
Music Performance and Production BA (Hons)
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