BIMM Birmingham Masterclasses – the Story So Far
As a successful first term at BIMM Birmingham draws to a close, we take a look back at each of the industry guests who’ve walked through our doors to impart their wisdom and expertise onto our cohort of freshers.
Tony Iommi
It’s not everyday you get to shake hands with the man who practically invented heavy metal, but that’s exactly what our students got to do during an exclusive masterclass with Black Sabbath guitarist Tony Iommi prior to BIMM Birmingham’s official opening. During the intimate chat, he announced the introduction of the Toni Iommi Scholarship which was later awarded to degree student James Attwood. Tony returned a few weeks later, at the start of the campus’ very first term, to officially declare the campus open.
Rob Harris, Paul Turner and Derrick McKenzie
As Jamiroquai’s rhythm section, Rob, Paul and Derrick know a thing or two about groove. Aside from operating under Jay Kay’s banner, their collective gigging credits include the likes of Will Young, Annie Lennox, Tina Turner, Tom Jones, Bryan Ferry, Robbie Williams & Kylie Minogue. During their special masterclass, they demonstrated the playing techniques involved in some of Jamiroquai’s biggest hits, as well as discussing how to develop versatility and consistency as a musician.
Lower Than Atlantis
Head of Education James Maiden hosted a masterclass with LTA, asking about their formation, the importance of their team behind-the-scenes, coping with success and failures within the industry, plus their career highlights so far. They also gave some fantastic advice to BIMM students, emphasising that they make best use of the amazing facilities and the collaborative opportunities that being on a BIMM course offers.
Sid Wilson
Sid Wilson (AKA DJ Starscream) has made his mark on the music industry as one 9th of masked metal superstars, Slipknot. Since the release of their eponymous debut LP back in 1999, the band has gone on to become a multiplatinum-selling, festival-headlining force to be reckoned with. During his masterclass, Sid explained his musical heritage, Slipknot’s writing techniques and demonstrated the turntable scratch techniques that have taken him around the world countless times.
Rabea Massaad
As modern guitarists go, Raebea Massaad (or “Bea” as he prefers) is one of the most dextrous and hardworking on the gigging circuit. His attention to detail when it comes to tone and arrangements for his bands Toska and Dorje has made him one of the most in-demand musicians around. His Youtube channel alone has over 150,000 subscribers, all keen to discover his hints and tips. So, you can imagine how great it was to hear him advising our students on both guitar techniques and how to grow your social media presence.
Other guests to have paid us a visit for a masterclass this term include John Mostyn (Manager The Beat, Fine Young Cannibals), Fickle Friends (meet & greet), Jo Jeffries (Birmingham Music Awards), Chris Proctor (Programme Manager Symphony Hall), Lower Than Atlantis, Ralph Rolle (Chic) and Nuno Bettencourt (Extreme / Rihanna).
BIMM Birmingham’s masterclass program has gotten off to a flying start. And there are many more exciting industry guest visits in the pipeline.
If you’re interested in applying to study at BIMM Birmingham, you’ll find everything you need HERE.
