Alex Lewis

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Course: BA Music
Year of graduation: 2023
Nationality: British

Please tell us a bit about yourself and your background?

I’m technically a mature student. After school and college I worked for around 4 years in different roles such as sales and account management. Following a voluntary placement abroad I decided to follow what I am really interested in and choose to study Music at Leeds. I’m very interested in how music can and should be used in our everyday lives, and would like to explore how it can be implemented alongside exercise and running. I have a huge interest in reading and constantly read non fiction books. I also have a podcast that I record weekly episodes with other students!

Why did you choose to study your particular course and why did you choose the University of Leeds?

I wanted to study music. It’s my passion and I wanted to understand more about it and learn more about different types of music. Leeds appeared to be a great place, not only to study, but to use all the music facilities they have available. The city is also a fantastic place to attend live music events.

What has been the best aspect of your course so far?

I have really enjoyed the teaching and the modules. The best module was definitely the film music course. This involved practical work, as well as hearing from industry professionals who had great advice for composing. The assignment that I took part in at the end was to compose a piece of music for a Disney short film, an exciting project that allowed me to research into Pixar films and compose using a digital audio software.

Can you tell us about some of the exciting projects you have completed as part of your degree?

There have been some great projects that I have taken part in so far.

In the Music Tech module, as part of group work we recorded instruments ranging from drums to piano and mixed it together to create a 5 minute track. We also had to remix a Dua Lipa track into a completely different genre which was very interesting!

Another module looked at music and culture in the 1960s. The essay I decided to write was how Soul music intertwined with the Civil Rights Movement. This was a great opportunity to listen to lots of Soul artists such as Aretha Franklin and James Brown, and find out more about the movement for equality.

What activities outside of your studies were you involved in?

Last year I was involved in a variety of different societies. I took part in the choir society a few times, which involved playing the piano for them. I also attended a number of Cross Country sessions.

What would you say to students thinking about studying your course?

I would highly recommend students to study this course. The modules are fantastic and diverse, with plenty of options for performance based or academic subjects. The facilities are great and students can use the practice rooms with pianos or use multiple recording studios. The lecturers and staff are always easy to speak to and very helpful. There is also plenty of choices on what to study and flexibility on where you can study.

What does Leeds as a city have to offer students?

Leeds is a great place to live, especially for students. In Headingly, Hyde Park and Burley, you do get the best of both worlds as a student. You are close to the university and plenty of places to shop and go out, but you are also outside of the busy city centre. There are multiple pubs and bars and events taking place all the time. There is also lots to do nearby such as visiting the cinema, going climbing, bowling and taking part in outdoor sports.

What do you plan to do once you graduate?

I plan to move back to London and work within Music teaching or Music therapy.

What experiences at Leeds do you think have particularly helped with your career?

The independence of living in a different city has helped to build up confidence and understanding how to study and work. Working with others in the course has really aided my team working and communication skills that will be useful for working within an organisation in the future.