The commercial music course was launched in September 2012 after identifying a gap in the market for popular music education. Several established schools were offering either elite classical or jazz music courses but there was very little on offer for young musicians who wanted to focus on the rock and pop genres in full-time education.
Director of Music, Harmesh Gharu, said: ‘I wanted to create a comprehensive popular music course that was artistically exciting, quality-driven and industry-focused'
Pupils follow a bespoke timetable of lessons including song writing, music tech, theory and portfolio. Live performance is a key aspect of the course with pupils rehearsing each week for gigs not only in school but also in external venues such as the Royal Albert Hall, Bush Hall and the 606 Club.
The tutors on the course are all experienced performers and active musicians. The course is often visited by industry professionals and most recently the pupils have been working with former pupil Ella Henderson. Other masterclasses have included: Frank Turner, Michael Jarman (Closer Artists), Dani Sawyer (Universal Music), Lindy Robbins and Steve Robson (BMG).
Pupils graduating from the course go on to study music at specialist higher education institutes including Berklee College of Music, Royal Northern College of Music, Leeds Conservatoire and ICMP.
The course has grown in strength as shown by the illustrious alumni. Jordan Shaw was one of the first pupils to complete the course and after signing with ‘Phrased Differently’ has gone on to have a career working with Armin Van Buren, JLS and Lost Kings.
Shaw said: ‘The course gave me the opportunity to explore the different areas of music I was passionate about. It also built strong foundations for me to progress to higher education. It wasn't until I started university that I realised the breadth and depth of what the course offered as I was able to take second-year classes in my first year. I can’t recommend the commercial music course enough. It’s one of the main reasons I’m where I am today, and I can wholeheartedly say that.’
The commercial music course is a dynamic an exciting opportunity for talented musicians aged 16 - 18 who have an interest in creating and performing popular music.
Visit tringpark.com for more information and to apply.
