Student Spotlight - Dennis Swan
“Studying at UHI has been phenomenal. Everyone is so kind and supportive towards each other and the campus is just a brilliant place to be a part of.”
Our industry-focused accredited music courses will help you to prepare for a career as a musician. Within our friendly community, you will develop your creative practice, vocational and musical identity. Now in the second year of his degree, Dennis chatted to us about his experience so far.
What is your name, and where are you from?
My name is Dennis Swan, and I am local coming from Perth.
What course are you studying at UHI Perth, and what year are you currently in?
I am currently studying BA Popular Music, however I have also completed the NC and HNC Music.
How did you hear about UHI Perth?
UHI Perth is the most local college/university to where I live. My sister Toyah also studied the same course before I did, and she gave me some insights of what it was like and what to expect.
What were you doing before you came to UHI Perth?
Before coming to UHI, I was in secondary school while also taking private drum lessons with current lecturer, Ivan Sveda.
Why did you decide to pick this course?
Music has always run in my family with both my mum and sister being very passionate about the art of music. However, I didn’t properly get into music until I was an early teenager. My sister recommended my current lecturer Ivan for private drum tuition and from there, the passion for drumming and creating has only grown stronger.
What is your favourite thing about the course?
The people. From the other students to the lecturers. Having so many people with the same or similar goal as you surrounding you everyday is just a brilliant feeling. I have met some brilliant musicians and songwriters in this course as well as people I will be friends with for the rest of my life.
Has there been any standout/memorable moments from your course?
The live performance assessments are always a great time. Being able to go out to a venue to play live and see all my friends also performing is always a treat and this being a part of my course only makes it better.
What knowledge, skills and experience have you gained from your course that will help you when you leave UHI Perth?
The music course is very broad so I have learned a lot from the course some might not expect. Over the span of two years, I have learned things about the music business, how to put on a live performance, knowledge of recording and music production, the list goes on. These classes give us the best chance to succeed in the music industry as possible. There are always opportunities to work with people in other courses as well such as if I need studio time, I can work with an audio engineering student. Or if I want to host my own gig, I can work with a music business student. There is always collaboration within the UHI community, so I have learned the importance of having other people to work with.
Have you undertaken a placement or work experience whilst at UHI Perth?
I have not undertaken any official placements from the course; however, I have had lecturers offer me gigs, music production jobs, etc.
Have your lecturers been supportive during your studies?
Absolutely. The lecturers are always pushing us to do the most we can with our musical abilities inside and outside of the course.
Any other achievements you have gained on your journey?
The two biggest achievements I have gained would be obtaining the endeavour award in NC as well as graduation for HNC. This is on top of achievements with my own music and my bands I have been in over the years.
What do you like about the campus? Are the music facilities good?
The facilities are top tier! From high-end studios to bookable practice rooms. Being able to have unlimited access to musical equipment at any time is brilliant. This is especially helpful for me as a drummer as it can be difficult to find a space to practice with the noise level of a drum kit!
Have you enjoyed studying at UHI Perth? Any highlights?
Studying at UHI has been phenomenal. Everyone is so kind and supportive towards each other and the campus is just a brilliant place to be a part of.
Do you have any additional hobbies or interests outside of your studies?
When I’m not doing paradiddles or mixing a new song, I like to relax with gaming. Whether I play games alone or with friends, it is always something I come back to again and again.
Can we follow your music career anywhere?
You can find all my social medias, Apple Music and Spotify here.
What are your future career plans?
Ideally, I would love to make a living from playing live with bands, however I am also very interested in music production so it would be nice to have my own studio space.
And finally, what advice would you give to someone thinking about studying at UHI Perth?
My only advice is to do it. Everyone here is lovely, the campus has lots of great facilities that are useful for students and most of all, there is a very wide range of courses to choose from.
