Tom Andrews

Please tell us a bit about yourself and your background?

I graduated from my undergraduate degree in music in 2014, during my time on the course I got heavily involved with volunteering  with community music organisations. From this I managed to forge a career in Community music, running workshops for people with disabilities, mental health issues and dementia. I have also been teaching guitar and ukulele, specialising in students with additional needs. In my spare time I love to care for animals and plants.

What made you want to apply to your course and to Leeds?

The course suits me really well. Having had a wealth of practical experience working with Music in Wellbeing settings I had a lot of desire to look into the academic side of the work I do. The opportunity to evaluate research and back up many of my beliefs about music and wellbeing with knowledge of research was a big driving factor to apply. Having visited the campus and met the academic staff, I felt that this was a great place for me to continue my studies.

What is it that makes you passionate about your area of study?

I've witnessed music having a transformative effect for many people through my work and am convinced of the potential of music to bring about positive change in people of all demographics.

What aspects of the course did you enjoy the most? 

One aspect I've really enjoyed is discussing and evaluating research with other students and academics. Another would be working on drafting a plan for an interactive soundscape for the yet to be built new children’s hospital in Leeds.

Did you work closely with a particular tutor or member or the University’s academic staff? Tell us about that experience.

All the 1:1 tuition I have received at the university has been top quality. I feel as though the academic staff have always been able to concisely steer my work and thinking in useful ways.

What would you say to anyone thinking of applying to your course?

If you're interested in furthering your academic understanding of Music and Wellbeing alongside a wonderful group of academic staff then definitely consider this course.