Songwriting Masterclasses: Jez Ashurst & Laurence Hobbs
BIMM Birmingham students were recently privy to two intimate masterclasses from producers and songwriting experts Jez Ashurst and Laurence Hobbs as the campus’ new term got underway.
As a songwriter and producer, Jez Ashurst has worked with the likes of Little Mix, Ella Henderson and Ed Sheeran, among many other talented artists. An enlightening Q&A was held with Jez in BIMM Birmingham’s live room, with songwriting course leader Jonny Amos at the helm posing questions about his work life and career highlights.
After the masterclass session, Jez held a fantastic clinic with BA1 Songwriting students as part of their Songwriting Techniques module. This additional experience offered students the chance to demo their own original material in front of an expert whose constructive critical feedback was invaluable.
BA1 Songwriting student Eve Pitt took part in the experience, saying:
“Having Jez pick apart our songs and explain how and why to change parts helped shape the way I see the process of creating new material.”
“Jez provided a huge burst of inspiration for our students and stretched their thought patterns in a big way.” said Jonny.
During the same week, professional songwriter, producer, talent scout, promoter and manager Laurence Hobbs swung by our Birmingham campus to offer his own professional opinions and advice for our aspirant young songwriters.
Hobbs, who is also a director of the SAF Music Group, has helped to craft hit songs for the likes of Sam Smith, Pixie Lott and Shayne Ward among many others. And after another revealing Q&A masterclass hosted by in-house songwriting expert Jonny, the industry veteran offered additional one-to-one critiquing slots with whichever students were seeking extra songwriting/career advice.
BA1 Songwriting student Louis Croft was one of those in attendance, who said “He was so positive and inspirational. My career goals now seem more achievable to me.”
“It was a great opportunity for students across the entire college to be able to sit and have a one to one with Laurence.” Said host Jonny. “Students went to him with song ideas for critique and questions about the industry. One student even interviewed him for her Research Methods project. It was fascinating hearing his insight into artist development during the Q&A section of the day.”
If you’re interested in gaining access to exclusive songwriting events such as these, plus a whole roster of other masterclasses, why not Apply Now for a course at BIMM Birmingham. Or alternatively, come along to one of our Open Days to meet the lecturers and check out our state of the art facilities.
