Student Spotlight - Mel Thomson
“I have definitely gained confidence in myself and been able to improve my playing abilities. I have also just learned in general what it’s like to be in the music industry and what it could potentially be like.”
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in the music industry, there is no better place than UHI Perth. Our courses provide a bridge to sustainable employment and the development of artist and practitioner identities, with transferable skills that can be employed in other sectors. Having started her journey at UHI Perth on a School/College Partnership course, Mel is now doing her HNC 👇🥁
What is your name, and where are you from?
My name is Mel Thomson, and I am from Auchterarder.
What course are you studying at UHI Perth, and what year are you currently in?
I am currently on the HNC Music course with drums as my main instrument. I am planning on going to do the whole music degree after I finish the HNC. In my last year of school, I did the NPA Music Business course at UHI Perth, which I thoroughly enjoyed.
How did you hear about UHI Perth?
I’ve heard about UHI Perth through school and friends/family who used to attend.
What were you doing before you came to UHI Perth?
Before I came here, I had taken a gap year after I left school to get a job and earn money and to also get more experience in music before doing the course.
Why did you decide to pick this course?
I decided to do this course because music is what I love to do and what I want to do in the future and the course also gives you that experience of getting out there and playing and learning how to be more of a musician which I like.
What is your favourite thing about the course?
My favourite thing about the course is the playing opportunities you get out of it, like getting to play at The Twa Tams or the theatre in the college. Also meeting fellow musicians on the course who all enjoy the same passion and who share ideas and learn from each other.
Has there been any standout/memorable moments from your course?
The standout moment from the course so far is when we did our live performance gig at The Twa Tams. I loved that I got to go on stage twice, the first time being playing the drums and the second time being when played trumpet. It was a very good atmosphere with loads of people watching, having fun, and having a laugh.
What knowledge, skills and experience have you gained from your course that will help you when you leave UHI Perth?
I have definitely gained confidence in myself and improved my playing abilities. I have also just learned in general what it’s like to be in the music industry and what it could potentially be like.
Have your lecturers been supportive during your studies?
I have found my lecturers to be supportive to me especially as I have Autism and ADHD which is an everyday struggle. It helps to know that they understand and are willing help/support me.
Any other achievements you have gained on your journey?
Before I started this course, a big part in my music journey was playing with my local band Perthshire Brass. In summer last year, we went on a week’s tour to Aschaffenburg in Germany where we played ten concerts in four days. From this tour, I learnt how much music actually means to people and improved my confidence and playing ability.
Some achievements I am proud of since starting this course are: when I guested for a championship section brass band at the Fife Charites contest, and we won - we also won best percussionists. Another thing I am proud of is being part of a band (The Apologetics) with my now two best mates who I have met through the course which is something that I’ve always wanted to do. I’m excited for what is to come for all of us three in the near future.
What do you like about the campus?
What I like about the campus is that everything is nearby and with the music facilities I like that you can just go and use the practice rooms and they have everything you need in them.
Have you enjoyed studying at UHI Perth? Any highlights?
I have enjoyed studying at UHI Perth. The highlights are meeting so many new people and being on a course with what everyone loves to do.
Do you have any additional hobbies or interests outside of your studies?
Outside of my studies, I play with my local brass band ‘Perthshire Brass’ every Sunday - where I play the cornet and percussion. I also play in the local orchestra ‘Perth Symphony Orchestra’ every Wednesday, where I play trumpet. I also just love meeting up with friends and family and going out and doing things with them.
What are your future career plans?
My future plans are to be a professional musician - touring and travelling the world playing loads of concerts and making lots of music - doing the thing I love the most!
And finally, what advice would you give to someone thinking about studying at UHI Perth?
It’s not as scary as you think it’s going to be. You’re going to meet so many new and nice kind faces, learn so many new things and get opportunities that you probably thought you wouldn’t even get.
