BIMM Brighton Graduation Ceremony

10 February, 2020

On the 20th February 2020, the Class of 2019 from BIMM Institute Brighton followed in the footsteps of legendary musicians such as Jimi Hendrix, Pink Floyd and David Bowie as they took to the stage at The Brighton Dome for their Graduation.

 

Opening the ceremony, College Principal Martin Wright welcomed the Graduands, congratulating them on the hard work and effort they have put in to be here on this special occasion. He concluded his introduction by saying, “BIMM is a unique place because of you. You, the future of the music industry.”

Next was Professor Kelly Coates from the University of Sussex. She reminded the Graduating Class that whilst celebrating their success, they should thank their families who have supported them up to this point in their education. She finished her speech with a reminder to all the Graduands to “Be proud, be creative and be bold.”

A highlight of each year’s graduation ceremony is the video from the graduating class sharing memories and highlights of their time at BIMM and congratulating their fellow peers. The biggest applause comes at the end as our individual lecturers send out their congratulations to their now-former students.

Tony Wadsworth CBE, our Non-Executive Director and music industry veteran followed. He shared his story on how he worked his way through the music industry. But his speech came with an important message, highlighting how so many were graduating to become music industry professionals – but with current changes in the education sector resulting in music studies disappearing from the curriculum.

He highlighted how music and arts education not only support an individual’s personal wellbeing but can also improve how a student performs across their entire education.

 

“What better way to earn your living than doing something you love and enriches other peoples lives?”

– Tony Wadsworth, CBE

 

Our guest of honour for the ceremony was drumming legend Woody Woodmansey (on his birthday!) Famous for drumming for the legendary artist David Bowie, he had performed on the stage of the Brighton Dome twice in the ’70s as part of Bowie’s band. He shared his story of how he became a drummer, and his time working with Bowie.

 

“It’s all about knowledge of the [music] business.”

– Woody Woodmansey

 

After being inspired, it was time to celebrate each Graduate. As each of their names were called to collect their certificates, we saw the latest Graduates of BA (Hons) Professional Musicianship, BA (Hons) Songwriting, BA (Hons) Music Production, BA (Hons) Music Business, BA (Hons) Event Management and BA (Hons) Music Journalism, as well as our PG (Cert) Graduates.

As the ceremony came to an end, it was a final chance to congratulate the Class of 2019 – we’re excited to see what is next for them all. 

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