Twenty-five Music Technology students from South Thames College are going on tour across the UK. The London students aged between 17 and 25 will tour colleges in Leeds, Liverpool and Nottingham as part of a four day trip.

This is the second year that students from the Music department have hit the road following last year’s successful venture.

The students will manage everything from setting up equipment to sound engineering, performing and event logistics. Curriculum Manager Nick Osbourne says: “The tour gives students live music and real life work experience. Touring helps the students to share good practice and improves the strong links we have within the music industry.”

The students will travel in a purpose made tour vehicle called a splitter van, equipped with TVs and DVD players. They will stay in youth hostels throughout the trip and will also get the chance to enjoy a professional gig after all their hard work.

Music professionals in the industry have endorsed South Thames College’s touring programme. Pete Briley from Tin Robot Records says: “The students will find that this experience will really help with getting ahead in the music industry - it's been really tough for the last few years and the more practical experience and contacts you can develop, the better. It's an awesome initiative South Thames College have developed!”

Glen Rowe from Cato Music says: “It is vital for students to get out on the road to understand how important “lobby call” is. When out on tour there is no room for lateness from a musician or crew member.”

Last year’s tour can be viewed on the College’s You tube page: www.youtube.com/souththamescoll#p/a/u/1/3SnxUCUvgW8

March 28th, 2011