DEGREE Acceptance Pack Bristol 2015

MUSIC
DEGREES
BA (HONS) IN:
PROFESSIONAL MUSICIANSHIP
MUSIC INDUSTRY MANAGEMENT
EVENT MANAGEMENT (MUSIC)
MUSIC PRODUCTION
YOUR MUSIC CAREER STARTS HERE
THE UK & EUROPE’S
MOST CONNECTED
MUSIC COLLEGE
BIMM.CO.UK
WELCOME
WELCOME TO YOUR BIMM INSTITUTE
BRISTOL 2015/16 ACCEPTANCE BROCHURE
AND CONGRATULATIONS ON BEING
OFFERED A PLACE! I AM DELIGHTED
THAT YOU HAVE CHOSEN TO STUDY
AT THE UK’S LEADING ESTABLISHMENT
FOR MODERN MUSIC EDUCATION.
BIMM Institute Bristol was founded in 2008. Since then our student
population has grown to over 600, with a portfolio of courses that has
expanded to encompass new programmes in Music Production, Music
Industry Management and Event Management (Music), as well as the more
traditional and long established performance and songwriting programmes.
BIMM Institute Bristol’s tutors have between them amassed a vast body
of experience working in the music industry spanning many years, and
all combine their teaching with professional music industry profiles as
performers, writers, arrangers, producers and entrepreneurs. This ensures
that our students benefit from their first-hand professional expertise and
experience throughout the course.
This approach to curriculum delivery, allied with our fantastic visiting faculty
and guest events programme, is designed to provide a creative environment
that’s challenging, stimulating and connected, enabling the music
professionals of tomorrow to hone their skills in the best possible way.
The College is endorsed and supported by leading equipment brand
manufacturers. Whatever your ambitions within the modern music industry,
BIMM Institute Bristol’s unparalleled level of career-relevant expertise,
facilities and support networks guarantee that you will be given the best
guidance, assistance and opportunities to achieve your goals.
I look forward to welcoming you to BIMM Institute Bristol for the 2015/16
academic year.
STEVE LAWSON
College Manager
02
CONTENTS
4
5
INDUCTION AND ENROLMENT
COURSE INFORMATION
6
7
BA(HONS) PROFESSIONAL MUSICIANSHIP BASS
BA(HONS) PROFESSIONAL MUSICIANSHIP DRUMS
8
9
10
BA(HONS) PROFESSIONAL MUSICIANSHIP GUITAR
BA(HONS) PROFESSIONAL MUSICIANSHIP VOCALS
BA(HONS) PROFESSIONAL MUSICIANSHIP SONGWRITING
11
12
MUSIC THEORY
BA(HONS) MUSIC INDUSTRY MANAGEMENT
13
14
15
BA(HONS) EVENT MANAGEMENT (MUSIC)
BA(HONS) MUSIC PRODUCTION
RECOMMENDED RESOURCES
16STUDENT SUPPORT
19 PEER MENTORING SERVICE
20TRANSPORT
21 STUDENT LIFE
24 GET CONNECTED AT BIMM
25
26
03
FRESHERS’ GUIDE
FACULTY INFORMATION
INDUCTION AND
ENROLMENT
IN ORDER TO PREPARE YOU FOR
STUDYING AT BIMM INSTITUTE
BRISTOL, WE WOULD LIKE YOU TO
ATTEND AN ENROLMENT SESSION.
Here you will meet key members of staff, be given
important information about the College and your course
(including your timetable), and have the opportunity to
look around our premises.
Enrolment and induction will be between 21st September
to 2nd October, with enrolment in the first week and
induction events in the second (mostly). Exact dates to be
confirmed at the start of September.
IF YOU DO NOT ATTEND THIS SESSION, YOU WILL NOT
BE ABLE TO START YOUR COURSE.
USEFUL CONTACTS
ADMISSIONS:
[email protected]
STUDENT SUPPORT:
[email protected]
FINANCE:
[email protected]
TERM DATES
ENROLMENT WEEK:
21st September to 2nd October 2015
TERM 1: 5th October–11th December 2015
TERM 2: 11th January–18th March 2016
TERM 3: 11th April–17th June 2016
We will also hold an induction event at one of Bristol’s
fantastic music venues, which is a fantastic opportunity
to meet fellow students from BIMM and watch some
brilliant bands.
PRE-ENROLMENT FOR YOUR COURSE
All students are required to complete pre enrolment information prior to your
enrolment day. You will have been sent an email with information regarding this.
Below is a list of things that MUST be completed:
Pre-enrolment form must be completed in full and submitted – the link to this form
will have been sent to you by email
Passport Style photo – This will be used for your student ID card. Please follow the
guidelines on how to upload your photo on the BIMM website
Proof of ID – Please send a colour scan of your passport/driving licence/Citizen card
to [email protected]
Confirmation of SLC loan or alternative payment method evidence – please send a
scan of the confirmation for the SLC loan
PRE ENROLMENT FORMS MUST BE COMPLETED BY THE 11th SEPTEMBER 2015.
PLEASE NOTE: Timetables cannot be provided before enrolment. This is a full-time
course and the timetables given to you at enrolment are not flexible. Any part-time jobs
must work around the timetable given.
BA(Hons)
COURSE
INFORMATION
05
BA(Hons)
PROFESSIONAL
MUSICIANSHIP
BASS
HEAD OF BASS
STUART CLAYTON
ESSENTIAL
EQUIPMENT
Bass and lead
Typically, bass guitarists are vastly outnumbered by guitarists,
vocalists and drummers at music colleges, and the same is true
in the real world. This means that there are many opportunities
– both at BIMM and beyond – for bass players to find work in the
industry. Our aim at BIMM is to prepare you for every possible
avenue of employment that might come your way in the future,
whether it is session work, touring, teaching or writing. We have
a fantastic track record with our previous bass students, many of
whom are now following impressive career paths of their own.
Strap
Our courses are delivered by some of the finest teachers in the
industry, all of whom remain active as professional musicians. At
BIMM we have a complete understanding of what is required by
today’s professional bassist. Across our courses we cover all of the
essential skills you’ll need, such as technical development, theory
and sight reading, multiple styles, upright, music business and
more. With our help, you will be able to make the most of your
career as a professional musician.
Spare strings
Electronic tuner
Metronome/Metronome app
(Guitar Toolkit is a great app
that also includes a tuner)
Headphones and
1/4 jack input
Manuscript paper, pencils,
erasers and pens
Ear plugs
All students are strongly
advised to wear ear
protection when in class,
practicing or performing.
RECOMMENDED READING
Ashton, A. (2005) The Bass Handbook. San Francisco: Backbeat Books
Clayton, S. (2013) The Bass Guitarist’s Guide to Reading Music. (s.l.): Bassline Publishing
Friedland, E. (1995) Building Walking Bass Lines (Bass Builders). Milwaukee: Hal Leonard Publishing
Mulhern, T. ed. (2000) Bass Heroes: Styles, Stories and Secrets of 30 Great Bass Players. Backbeat UK
Please note that this is a recommended reading list and therefore not essential.
06
BA(Hons)
PROFESSIONAL
MUSICIANSHIP
DRUMS
HEAD OF DRUMS
JAMES HESTER
The drum course at BIMM has been designed to bring out your
own unique sound, to enable you to sound like you – to enhance
your knowledge base and therefore your creativity but to back it
up so you have the technique to deliver it. The faculty has a broad
reach so there can be no stone unturned in whichever direction
you wish to take and we will work as hard for you as you work
for yourself. Alumni drummers have gone on to work for Roland
(demos and clinics), perform at Glastonbury, play international
tours supporting the likes of Portishead and perform in the BBC
Radio 1Xtra Live lounge. Starting the course as organised as
possible will help you when things get tough and we’re there
to help you every step of the way. This is a tough industry but
someone has to play main the stage at Reading Festival and it
might as well be you…
“HARD WORK BEATS TALENT WHEN
TALENT DOESN’T WORK HARD.”
RECOMMENDED READING
Chester, G. (1985) The New Breed Modern Drummer Publications
Gallwey, W. T. and Green, B. (1996) The Inner Game of Music
ESSENTIAL
EQUIPMENT
Sticks – several good
quality pairs (7A-2B
weight), brushes (wire
retractable), hot rods,
mallets etc., all in a stick
bag.
Metronome – both a
stand-alone one (such
as a Korg MA30, Tama
Rhythm Watch) and also
iPhone apps (the Yamaha
Clickstation app is a must).
Practice pad – one that
you can use on its own –
possibly on a stand.
Headphones and 1/4 jack
input adapter – in ear
monitor style (if possible)
as well as over ear style –
for click work, listening to
music and using with the
Roland electronic kits at
BIMM.
Stationery and manuscript
paper – always – no
excuses! Also have a 2B
pencil, ruler, Berol ‘italics’
pen (medium) and a good
quality eraser.
Ear plugs
New York: Doubleday & Company, Inc.
Hester, J. (2011) Mind Over Meter (s.l.):(s.n.)
Riley, J. (2004) The Art of Bop Drumming Alfred Music Publishing
Please note that this is a recommended reading list and therefore not essential.
07
All students are strongly
advised to wear ear
protection when in class,
practicing or performing.
BA(Hons)
PROFESSIONAL
MUSICIANSHIP
GUITAR
DEPUTY HEAD OF GUITAR
JUSTIN GOODALL
ESSENTIAL
EQUIPMENT
Guitar and lead
The guitar course at BIMM Institute Bristol provides a solid
foundation for students who are aiming to enter an ever-changing
industry that requires a broad range of skills and knowledge. The
tutors here have a diverse and high-level of professional experience
to tap into, and the course focuses closely on technique,
musicianship skills, repertoire and creativity.
Tuner
Our guitar students get to explore a number of playing styles whilst
developing their technique, theory knowledge and aural ability,
along with the necessary tools for work in a variety of musical
settings such as timing, tone and dynamic control, part writing,
arrangement, stagecraft and studio skills.
Ear plugs
Bristol life and the College itself present an opportunity to link
up with like-minded musicians and explore new territory on the
pathway to becoming a well-rounded musician. There is always
a great rapport between the guitarists here, and a buzz around
the department.
RECOMMENDED READING
Gambale, F. (1989) The Frank Gambale Technique Book 1. Manhattan Music Publications
Gambale, F. (1989) The Frank Gambale Technique Book 2. Manhattan Music Publications
Govan, G. (2002) Creative Guitar 1 and 2. Sanctuary Publishing Ltd.
Greene, T. (1981) Chord Chemistry. Dale Zdenek Publications
Please note that this is a recommended reading list and therefore not essential.
08
Metronome/Metronome app
(Pro Metronome)
Stationery and manuscript
paper
Spare strings
Plectrums
All students are strongly
advised to wear ear
protection when in class,
practicing or performing.
BA(Hons)
PROFESSIONAL
MUSICIANSHIP
VOCALS
HEAD OF VOCALS
MARTIN HIBBERT
ESSENTIAL
EQUIPMENT
Microphone and lead
Bristol has a vibrant and diverse music scene derived from its
incredible history as a world trade centre, embracing the styles of
the many cultures that have influenced it. BIMM is a specialist music
college that is very much a part of the musical heartbeat of Bristol,
producing some of the region’s most exciting talent.
Headphones and 1/4 jack
input
In the vocal department you will be encouraged to discover
yourself and develop your skills as a vocalist and performer. You
will have the support and guidance of experienced professionals
who have the same passion for music as you. You will be
networking and developing professional relationships in a talentrich pool of diverse musicians.
Ear plugs
The voice is an incredible instrument and demands the highest
standards of training and development. The harder you work, the
richer your rewards, so be prepared to take every opportunity that
comes your way and push yourself to the limit.
Stationery and manuscript
paper
Keyboard
All students are strongly
advised to wear ear
protection when in class,
practicing or performing.
RECOMMENDED READING
Baxter, M, (1989) The Rock ‘n’ Roll Singer’s Survival Handbook. Milwaukee: Hal Leonard Corporation
Riggs, S. (1993) Singing for the Stars: A Complete Guide to Training Your Voice. Alfred Music Publishing
Sheppard, B. (2008) The Everything Singing Book. Adams Media Corporation
Rockschool Male/Female Vocals Grades 1-8 (2014)
Please note that this is a recommended reading list and therefore not essential.
09
BA(Hons)
PROFESSIONAL
MUSICIANSHIP
SONGWRITING
HEAD OF SONGWRITING
GERARD LANGLEY
The first thing to be aware of is that musicians need songs but
songwriters don’t need musicians if they can play guitar (or keyboard)
well enough to accompany themselves. There are many excellent
musicians, fewer excellent songwriters. Therefore songwriters are
highly valued within the music industry.
This course will teach you many tools that have proved useful to great
songwriters in the past. However, you must provide your own ideas.
Many writers come up with a reasonable idea then spoil it through
lack of technique. This degree will show you how to avoid the most
common pitfalls, while demonstrating a breadth of knowledge that
usually comes only with time and experience. You will never listen to
records in the same way again!
The tutors on this course are industry professionals with a wide
range of experience. Most songwriters are not interviewed much
about what they do, so most techniques are shared on tour buses,
in dressing rooms and hotel bars in the early hours of the morning.
The experience of many years of touring and recording at the highest
levels is therefore made available here to students who want to learn
how to maximise their potential in the most lucrative area of the music
business.
RECOMMENDED READING
Flanagan, B, (1987) Written In My Soul (Omnibus). RosettaBooks, LLC
Rachel, D, (2013) Isle of Noises. Picador
Zollo, P, (1958) Songwriters on Songwriting. Da Capo Press, Inc.
Any autobiography of a songwriter and any collected lyrics
Please note that this is a recommended reading list and therefore not essential.
10
ESSENTIAL
EQUIPMENT
Guitar or keyboard,
microphone and lead,
notebooks and A4 pads
Recording equipment
(Garageband, 4-­track retro
cassette machine, i­Phone,
etc.); just something to
record on, day or night
Ideas
Ear plugs
All students are strongly
advised to wear ear
protection when in class,
practicing or performing.
A few words on
MUSIC THEORY
MUSIC THEORY IS AN IMPORTANT PART
OF THE BA (HONS) PROFESSIONAL
MUSICIANSHIP. STUDENTS STUDY THEORY
MODULES IN THE FIRST YEAR AND CAN OPT
TO CONTINUE THROUGHOUT THEIR STUDIES.
YOU WILL USE THEORY CONCEPTS IN MANY
OTHER MODULES DURING YOUR TIME AT
BIMM. BUILDING YOUR THEORY KNOWLEDGE
WILL ENHANCE YOUR TECHNIQUE,
PERFORMANCE AND CREATIVITY, AND IS ONE
OF THE MOST IMPORTANT AREAS YOU WILL
DEVELOP OVER THE NEXT THREE YEARS.
Theory tutor GREG CORDEZ explains why it’s not scary and shares
some resources you can use to brush up on your theory knowledge
before term starts.
So often the mention of music theory strikes fear into the heart of a
musician. If approached from a dry, academic perspective it can seem
hard to align the concepts of music theory with your own music. In
truth, the study of music theory is the study of music. The word ‘theory’
could easily be dropped from the title. Studying music theory concepts
is the bridge between what has occurred in the past, what is happening
now in your music, and the potential to advance in terms of creativity,
improvisation, composition and session musician skills. The more
books you read, films you watch, lyrics you memorise will all inform
your day to day speech and vocabulary. The same is true for studying
harmony, ear training, transcription, and reading music. BIMM aims to
get you using music theory concepts to explore many areas of rhythm,
pitch and harmony, becoming a more accomplished and well rounded
musician, and most importantly, to benefit your own music.
RECOMMENDED READING
www.musictheory.net
www.teoria.com
www.good-ear.com
Levine, M. (1995) The Jazz Theory Book. Petaluma: Sher Music
Werner, K. (1990) Effortless Mastery. New Albany: Jamey Aebersold Jazz
Please note that this is a recommended reading list and therefore not essential.
11
BA(Hons)
MUSIC INDUSTRY
MANAGEMENT
TUTOR
JASON HUNT
There are many routes available into the music industry along
with many different roles when you get there. The Music Industry
Management course will show how the industry works, how all the
different roles interact and how to avoid many of the pitfalls that
you can encounter.
ESSENTIAL
EQUIPMENT
Computer with Word
and Excel (or equivalent)
programmes
Stationery
All of your tutors have real life experience in many of the roles;
you will also gain experience from inspirational guest speakers.
As part of BIMM you will have the opportunity to mix with
hundreds of musicians, giving you the chance to find “the next
big thing” and use your knowledge in practical situations.
“I HAVE KNOWN FROM
THE BEGINNING ONE
THING YOU NEED TO
KNOW. THAT IS, THE
MUSIC BUSINESS IS
A BUSINESS.”
STEVE BROWN
PRODUCER
RECOMMENDED READING
Atkins, M. (2007) Tour: Smart: and Break the Band. Smart Books
Harrison, A. (2011) Music: The Business. The Essential Guide to the Law and the Deals. London: Virgin
Passman, D. (2009) All You Need to Know About the Music Business. London: Penguin
Music Week Magazine. Intent Media
Please note that this is a recommended reading list and therefore not essential.
12
BA(Hons)
EVENT
MANAGEMENT
MUSIC
TUTOR
JASON HUNT
Since when has Hollywood even got close to the truth? (see the
movie quotes to the right of this paragraph!). Merely building an
event is nowhere near enough to move people to actually come.
ESSENTIAL
EQUIPMENT
Computer with Word
and Excel (or equivalent)
programmes
Stationery
On the Event Management course you will learn how to build,
develop, brand, market and shape your events in to long lasting,
revenue generating businesses.
All of the tutors have real life experiences of events.
There is a wealth of knowledge on offer, from festivals, to clubs,
to gigs and corporate events. Your skill set will grow to cover all
of these and more.
Working within the events industry is one of the most rewarding,
exhilarating and fun jobs you can have, now doesn’t that sound
like you want to do this!
“IF YOU BUILD IT,
THEY WILL COME”
FIELD OF DREAMS
“IF YOU BOOK THEM,
THEY WILL COME”
WAYNE’S WORLD 2
RECOMMENDED READING
Berridge, G. (2006) Events Design and Experience. Oxford: Butterworth-Heinemann
Bowdin, G. et al. (2011) Events Management. Oxford: Butterworth-Heinemann
Brant, M. (2008) Join Together: Forty Years of the Rock Festival. Backbeat
Paytress, M. (2005) I Was There: Gigs That Changed The World. Cassell Illustrated
Please note that this is a recommended reading list and therefore not essential.
13
BA(Hons)
MUSIC
PRODUCTION
TUTOR ADAM WINCHESTER
The BA (Hons) Music Production degree gives you the tools to
create your own unique musical works, explore creative ideas, and
express yourself in a multitude of ways. Each year is designed with
the specific interest of enhancing your ability in music production,
recording, experimenting, and performance.
Year 1 gives you a solid grounding in all important areas of the
music production process; by Year 2 you will be ushered down the
rabbit hole to take your understanding to a deeper level, while in
Year 3 you will be given the opportunity to specialise in a creative
project of your choosing with the flexibility to explore creative
ideas and realise your potential goals. All of the lecturers on the
Music Production course are actively working in the music industry,
from huge live performances, releasing thousands of records,
writing music for films, to recording in some of the best studios in
the world; there is a wealth of expertise to be tapped into.
Bristol is a melting pot of sonic styles, musical innovation, and
imagination, with a vibrant club scene, and a great sense of
community. It’s easy to see how so many producers, artists, and
performers have managed to carve out successful careers in this
relatively small city. “There is definitely something in the water in
Bristol.” Maryanne Hobbs (BBC Radio 1, BBC 6 Music)
ESSENTIAL
EQUIPMENT
Computer
Audio Interface
DAW (Digital Audio
Workstation)
Midi controller
“MUSIC SHOULD BE
MORE THAN A JOB.
IT SHOULD BE A
PASSION. IT SHOULD
BE SOMETHING THAT
YOU DON’T EVEN
SEE AS WORK.”
THEO PARRISH,
DETROIT TECHNO PIONEER
“I USUALLY PUT THE
RADIO ON IN THE
MORNING, IT’S SUCH
RUBBISH THAT IT
URGES ME TO CREATE
SOMETHING GOOD.”
RICHARD D JAMES,
AKA APHEX TWIN
RECOMMENDED READING
Collins, M. (2010) Pro Tools 8. Focal Press
Cousins, M. and Hepworth-Sawyer, R. (2010) Logic Pro 9. Oxford: Focal Press
Huber, D. (2005) Modern Recording Techniques. Oxford: Focal Press
Jerse, T. (1997) Computer Music: Synthesis Composition and Performance. London: Macmillan
Please note that this is a recommended reading list and therefore not essential.
14
RECOMMENDED
RESOURCES
BIMM INSTITUTE BRISTOL RECOMMENDS THAT ALL
STUDENTS START TO EXPLORE THE RESOURCES
HIGHLIGHTED BELOW BEFORE TERM STARTS
JOURNALS/
MAGAZINES
CMU (Complete Music Update)
Music Week (Main UK Industry
Magazine)
M Magazine (PRS Magazine)
Mojo Magazine
NME
Q Magazine
The Fly
The Guardian Guide (Saturdays)
TWITTER FEEDS
TO FOLLOW
@thebpi
@ppluk
@CMU
@songlinesmag
@basca_uk
@theivors
@musicweeknews
@m_magazineprs
@prsformusic
@prsfoundation
@uk_music
@aim_uk
@recordoftheday
@officialcharts
@guardianmusic
15
CONTEXTUAL READING WEBSITES/BLOGS
Audio Books available on
Audible.com
PRS
www.prsformusic.com
Byrne, D. (2012) How Music Works.
London: Canongate
PPL
www.ppluk.com
Ellen, M. (2014) Rock Stars Stole My
Life!: A Big Bad Love Affair with Music.
BASCA
www.basca.org.uk
London: Coronet.
SONGLINES
www.songlines.co.uk
Knopper, S. (2009) Appetite for SelfDestruction: The Spectacular Crash of
the Record Industry in the Digital Age.
London: Simon and Schuster UK
AUDIOBOO (Music Section)
www.audioboo.fm/browse/music/
boos
Pratt, G. (2007) My Bass and Other
Animals. London: Orion
The Quietus
www.thequietus.com
Tassell, N. (2013) Mr Gig.
Drowned in Sound
www.drownedinsound.com
London: Short Books
LISTENING TO AUDIO BOOKS IS
RECOMMENDED TO STUDENTS
AS AN EXCELLENT MEANS OF
GAINING BROAD HISTORICAL
AND CONTEXTUAL KNOWLEDGE
OF THE SUBJECT AREA QUICKLY
AND EASILY.
Fact
www.factmag.com
Pitchfork
www.pitchfork.com
The Line of Best Fit
www.thelineofbestfit.com
The 405
www.thefourohfive.com
The Guardian Music
www.theguardian.com/music
Clashmusic
www.clashmusic.com
Bristol Live Magazine
www.bristollivemagazine.com
Crack Magazine
crackmagazine.net
Drunken Werewolf
www.drunkenwerewolf.com
STUDENT
SUPPORT
16
STUDENT SUPPORT
SERVICES
We are committed to helping students fulfil their
potential during their time at BIMM Institute Bristol and
we place an emphasis on supporting the development of
our students both academically and personally. With this
in mind, the Student Support team is available at every
step of the student journey to offer confidential support
and guidance on issues such as stress, disability and
learning support, depression and anxiety issues, family/
friends/relationship problems, smoking, alcohol and
drugs, sexual health, eating disorders; as well as on-going
academic and practical learning support and advice. We
also offer a wide range of additional support services that
are designed to meet students’ academic and welfare
needs to enrich the BIMM Institute Bristol experience.
PASTORAL SUPPORT
The Student Support team holds individual one-onone sessions with students to discuss any issue they
may be struggling with. These are strictly confidential
and can include any topic ranging from personal
issues, attendance related queries, discussion of
special considerations we may need to take into
account to support your studies and book you into
one of the other support services we offer. We
actively encourage students to book appointments
and to come and meet us at any point during their
studies for extra support.
ACADEMIC TUTORIALS
We are committed to helping students fulfil their potential
during their time at BIMM Institute Bristol and we place an
emphasis on supporting the development of our students
both academically and personally. With this in mind, the
Student Support team is available at every step of the
student journey to offer confidential support and guidance
on issues such as stress, disability and learning support,
depression and anxiety issues, family/friends/relationship
problems, smoking, alcohol and drugs, sexual health, eating
disorders; as well as on-going academic and practical
learning support and advice. We also offer a wide range
of additional support services that are designed to meet
students’ academic and welfare needs to enrich the BIMM
Institute Bristol experience.
17
DISABILITY AND LEARNING SUPPORT
BIMM Institute Bristol is committed to a policy of equal
opportunities and provides confidential advice and
support to students with varying disabilities and specific
learning difficulties. We are committed to ensuring that
students with specific needs are provided with equal
access to their chosen course of study and facilities. The
College is working towards removing any barriers which
might prevent an individual from actively participating
in student life.
If students indicate on their application and/or preenrolment form that they require further support,
then a member of the Student Support team will be
in contact to arrange an individual tutorial. This is to
ensure all requirements are catered for.
Students with registered Specific Learning Difficulties
and an official Educational Psychologist Report or
Diagnostic Assessment completed after the age of
16 may be eligible for DSA (The Disabled Students’
Allowance). DSA can fund additional support such
as specialist one-to-one mentoring and study skills
tutoring, reasonable adjustments and technological
aids. Students who do not have an up-to-date
Educational Psychologist Report or Diagnostic
Assessment, or just suspect a Specific Learning
Difficulty should contact the Student Support team,
who will arrange the relevant assessments and advise
on accessing support.
BIMM Institute Bristol offers a service from an
external diagnostic assessor who provides students
with assessments for Specific Learning Difficulties,
including but not limited to Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, ADHD,
Dyscalculia, etc.
COUNSELLING
BIMM Institute Bristol offers counselling to any student
in need of the service via in-house professional
counsellors. Counselling is available either on or
off site. This free and confidential provision offers
individuals the opportunity to explore a wide range of
emotional and psychological issues. The counselling
service provided is hugely experienced and abides by
the British Association for Counselling Code of Ethics.
18
The price of the assessment is £210 for a learning
support assessment, not including an assessment for
ADHD. An assessment for ADHD costs £280, which
also includes a diagnosis for any additional Specific
Learning Difficulties.
You can find more information regarding DSA
(including eligibility and application forms) here;
www.gov.uk/disabled-students-allowances-dsas/
overview
We advise that students apply for this as early as
possible to ensure that support can be put in place at
the start of the academic year, though there is no formal
deadline for applications to be received. If you require
any additional information or would like to discuss this
further with one of the Student Support team, please
contact [email protected]
We work with students with a wide range of
disabilities, including but by no means restricted to:
Specific learning difficulties (such as dyslexia,
dyspraxia, ADHD)
Mental health difficulties (such as depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety)
Students with autistic spectrum and asperger’s
syndrome
Long-term medical conditions (such as HIV, cancer,
multiple sclerosis)
Unseen disabilities (such as diabetes, asthma,
epilepsy)
Sensory impairments (such as visual/hearing
impairment)
Mobility or physical impairments (such as paralysis,
arthritis)
PEER MENTORING SERVICE
THE PROGRAMME
The programme is designed to help new students
settle into BIMM life by the provision of signposting
and assistance by existing BIMM students, who are able
to share the information and advice they gained during
their first year or two at BIMM. The Bristol programme
is led by the Deputy Head of Student Services and the
Student Support Officers.
THE ROLE OF A MENTOR
A Peer Mentor is a volunteer undergraduate student
in their second or third year at BIMM. After applying
for the role and being selected, all mentors are given
training and guidance materials. They are matched
with a small group of first year students prior to the
beginning of a new academic year, to whom they offer
help and support. The QSS team continue to support
the mentors with advice, guidance and any necessary
training throughout the year. Although most Freshers
find their feet within the first week or so, mentors will
maintain their relationship with students for as long as
is needed.
WHAT A MENTOR CAN
DO FOR YOU
Help you adjust to BIMM life
Help you feel more confident
Help you meet other students
Help you feel like you belong
Help you feel you’re supported and encouraged
Help you know who to ask for welfare support
Help you know who to ask for academic advice
and support
Help you work out where to go in Bristol for
shopping, nights out, etc.
What to Expect Before You Start at BIMM
Once you sign up for the service and have been
matched with a Peer Mentor, your mentor will contact
you before you start. This is your chance to get any
first questions answered!
Here are some things you might want to ask about:
What is life at BIMM and in Bristol like?
What’s a typical day at BIMM?
What to expect at induction and enrolment
What do you need to bring with you?
How to register with a GP
What is student accommodation like?
How do you find gigs and venues?
WHAT TO EXPECT BEFORE YOU
START AT BIMM
Your mentor will be there to:
Give you advice and guidance
Direct you to the support you need for in-depth
issues or specialist support, e.g. finance, academic,
welfare, etc.
Remind you of BIMM procedures, e.g. assessment
submissions, attendance, use of libraries, etc.
Share practice tips, study tips, time planning and
budgeting strategies.
Please note that your mentor will not be there to assist
with producing academic work. If you need learning
support, you must let BIMM know and we will help you
access professional 1:1 study support tutoring!
If you would like a mentor, please send an email ASAP
to this address: [email protected]
Title your message ‘Mentor please!’ and in the
message, state your name, course and discipline (e.g.
drums). By asking for a mentor, you are giving BIMM
permission to share your email and phone number
with your mentor. This is so they can contact you to
introduce themselves and welcome you!
19
TRANSPORT
BIMM IS WELL CONNECTED TO THE REST
OF THE CITY VIA PUBLIC TRANSPORT
BUS
TRAIN
BIKE
BIMM Institute Bristol’s buildings
are very close to the city centre
and approximately 3 minutes’
(Kings Square) and 15 minutes’
(Passage Street) walk from the
central bus station.
Temple Meads – Bristol’s central
station. It is a 13-minute walk from
Passage Street and a 25-minute
walk from King Square and
connects you to the rest of the
country via First Great Western,
Cross Country and Stage Coach.
Bristol is a very popular cycling
city. It is a more efficient way of
navigating the very congested
roads and complicated one-way
systems. If you cycle you will find
you are not alone and there are
initiatives laid out by Bristol City
Council to get people out on
their bikes.
70 – Bristol Temple Meads – Centre
– Ashley Down – UWE
73 – Harbour – Bear Pit –
Gloucester Road – Filton Avenue Bristol Parkway Rail Station
75/76 – Harbour – Bear Pit
– Gloucester Road – Cribbs
Causeway
8/9 – Bristol Temple Meads – Bear
Pit – Clifton – Redland
Parkway – a large station
connecting Bristol to Wales,
surrounding Bristol towns, London
and the Midlands.
Montpelier – King Square’s nearest
platform. This is an inner-city
station which connects you to
other parts of Bristol, including
Bristol Temple Meads, Clifton,
Lawrence Hill and Stapleton Road.
Redland – Redland – another
nearby platform (King Square)
connecting you to other parts of
Bristol, including Shirehampton,
Avonmouth and Severn Tunnel
Junction.
20
STUDENT LIFE
BRISTOL IS AN EXCITING CITY WITH LOTS TO OFFER. THERE
IS A HUGE VARIETY OF CLUBS, BARS AND PUBS, MANY OF
WHICH RUN WEEKLY STUDENT PROMOTIONS AND OFFERS.
THERE IS A GREAT COLLECTION OF INDEPENDENT CAFÉS AND
RESTAURANTS WITH LOTS OF DIFFERENT CUISINES TO TRY.
For theatrical performances there is the Bristol Old
Vic, the Hippodrome and the Tobacco Factory, among
others. The Hippodrome hosts pantomimes, musicals,
plays, stand up and more. It recently hosted the awardwinning Disney’s Lion King. The Bristol Old Vic hosts
slightly more sophisticated performances such as
Dickens’ Great Expectations and the Bristol Proms.
The Tobacco Factory boasts an array of features and
shows. They host local theatre productions, live music,
comedy and lots of other entertainment.
Art is very important to Bristol and you can find popup galleries all over town and a number of theatres,
venues museums and cultural centres to visit, including
the SS Great Britain and the Arnolfini.
CULTURE
Bristol is an incredibly creative city with a reputation
for its street art, music scene and self-sufficiency.
Music plays a huge part in maintaining Bristol’s cultural
prominence. There are venues everywhere – dive bars
to swanky concert halls and everything in between.
Within a half-mile radius of BIMM’s King Square
building you can find Colston Hall, O2 Academy Bristol,
The Canteen, The Attic and many more. Prestigious
venues such as The Fleece and the Louisiana are not
far away either. There are open mic nights and jam
sessions most evenings and every night you can find
something to watch and listen to.
Crack magazine and Bristol Live are two excellent local
publications that will be able to give you everything
you need to know about the upcoming musical
calendar.
21
There are also a few independent cinemas which
show international films, independent films, classic
cult films and sometimes host parties and events. The
most notable of these cinemas is the Watershed, along
Bristol’s Harbourside and The Cube, three minutes
round the corner from King Square.
Stokes Croft is on BIMM’s doorstep and showcases
work by some of the UK’s most prolific street artists
including Stik, 3Dom and of course, Banksy. There is
a street art festival held every year by SEE NO EVIL
where many artists from across the world come to
display their art on Bristol’s streets; specifically Nelson
Street in the city centre.
Bristol thrives in Summer and there are festivals nearly
every weekend from late May to September. These
include St Paul’s Carnival, Harbour Festival, Food
Connections, Vegfest, Dot To Dot, Love Saves the Day,
Brisfest and many, many more.
STUDENT LIFE
SHOPPING
Bristol is popular for shopping as it is the only major
city in this part of the South West. People flock from
all over North Somerset, South Gloucestershire and
Wiltshire to visit the many shops and boutiques Bristol
has to offer. The town centre is home to Broadmead,
the shopping district, as it were. Upon Broadmead sits
a number of banks, cafés, travel agents, and clothing
and goods retailers. At either end of Broadmead you
will find Cabot Circus and the Galleries, both indoor
shopping centres. Cabot Circus boasts a collection
of modern and high-end retailers including Hollister,
Vans and Urban Outfitters. There are also a number
of restaurants, a cinema, indoor crazy golf and a few
other entertainment outlets within the centre.
If you venture out of the centre you can visit Park
Street or Gloucester Road. You will find more
independent boutiques and charity shops which offer
a more intriguing collection of clothes and accessories.
You will also find some fantastic independent bars,
cafés and restaurants. Gloucester Road has been
famed for its self-sustained nature and its anticorporate attitude. There is some fantastic food to try
and a friendly atmosphere to socialise in. They love to
accept the Bristol Pound, a local initiative encouraging
residents to put more into Bristol’s economy.
There are lots of music retailers including Idle Hands
(very near King Square), Rise and of course HMV
and Fopp.
There are a few musical instrument retailers including
Drum Bank, Mickelburgh’s, Music Room and PMT.
Out of the centre you can get to Cribbs Causeway, a
large plot with lots of opportunity to spend money. It
contains a large indoor mall, a few retail parks including
bowling, cinemas and other entertainment, a number
of large supermarkets and some restaurants.
If you have more expensive taste, you can
visit Clifton for a few fancy boutiques with designer
and made-to-measure clothing and accessories.
22
THE GREAT OUTDOORS
Not far from the centre you can find the Clifton Downs.
Clifton Village itself is a nice place to visit on a sunny
day as you can sit in the shadow of Clifton Suspension
Bridge and enjoy a drink at the White Lion. Opposite
Clifton is Leigh Woods, a very nice patch of greenery
and woods to take a walk through.
Bristol’s harbour is also a nice place to visit and to
take a walk along the river. There is lots to do and
many pubs to visit along the route. You can travel out
to Cheddar Gorge, Blaise Castle, the Mendip Hills and
many other beauty spots around the South West with
relative ease from Bristol. There are lots of nice towns
to visit nearby too, like Bath and Gloucester.
STUDENT LIFE
NIGHTLIFE
There is a big dance music scene in Bristol as the
UK rave scene is often considered to have begun
here. People would find abandoned warehouses,
derelict homes or even disused sports centres to
install a sound system, heavy on the bass, to throw
parties. Lots of Drum & Bass, Breakbeat and House
music originated here. Trip-hop is a Bristol invention
and the city takes pride in the success of its artists
Massive Attack and Portishead.
Bristol nightlife is vast and ever expanding. There are
a large number of student nights across all different
types of clubs, bars and pubs. Some popular clubs
are: Thekla, Bunker, Syndicate and, for the more
seasoned clubber, Motion.
O2 Academy also hosts club nights, including
Ramshackle, a weekly rave for the student masses.
Lots of Drum and Bass, Dubstep and Techno.
23
Propaganda is held at The Fleece and is regarded
as the UK’s biggest student night with sets from
guest DJs such as Huw Stephens and Jay from The
Inbetweeners. Everything from chart Pop to Indie to
some Dance anthems.
If you prefer something a little less intense, Mr Wolf’s
is a great student bar. They serve up noodles ‘til late in
the evening and play Reggae, Dancehall, Soul, Rock n
Roll, Funk and occasionally some Disco. They also put
on live music.
You can also find a more pleasantly relaxed night out
at Start The Bus, a larger venue than Mr Wolf’s with
a classic American Diner vibe. They play a mixture of
Indie, Funk and House, with a reputation for playing
underground indie music.
GET CONNECTED
AT BIMM
NETWORKING EVENTS
BIMM holds networking events in Term 1, which is a great opportunity to get
together with other students from different courses that have similar musical
interests. Not only is it a great way to find new friends and swap some phone
numbers, but it’s also a good place to start finding band members.
BIMM GIGS
Once you’ve got your band
together and had some rehearsals,
you can audition for one of BIMM’s
gigs. We hold two of these a term
and utilise the amazing venues that
are on our doorstep, such as Thekla
and The Fleece. These are ticketed
events with all proceeds going to
one of BIMM’s nominated charities,
and are a great opportunity
for students to get some live
performance experience and put
on a brilliant show for their peers,
friends and families.
BIMM ALBUM
The BIMM album is a showcase of BIMM’s best
songwriting talent. Students have the opportunity
to submit their demos to be reviewed by our
Artist Development team, and a selection of
these songs will be professionally recorded and
available to buy as a CD or digital download.
24
FRESHERS’ GUIDE
FRESHERS’ EVENTS, AT THE BEGINNING
OF THE FIRST TERM, ARE A GREAT WAY TO
MEET PEOPLE AND MAKE FRIENDS; WE’LL
PROVIDE YOU WITH INFORMATION ABOUT
THESE AT ENROLMENT. YOU CAN EXPECT
CLUB NIGHTS, GIGS, NETWORKING EVENTS
AND PLENTY OF DRINKS PROMOTIONS
COMMON
FEELINGS
STRATEGIES
FOR COPING
Moving away from home to a new
city and starting University is a
really exciting opportunity for a
big change. You get to make a
whole new start in a new place
with new people. You might feel a
mixture of great excitement and
nervousness – what will the course
really be like? Will I get on with my
housemates? Will I make friends?
How do I look after myself?
There are some important things to
keep in mind when going through
this experience of moving away from
home; these will prepare you and help
you to cope with any situation you
stumble across.
Look after yourself – It takes time
for new friends to really know you
properly, which means you need to
put your own welfare, health and
safety at the top of your priorities.
Know yourself and what you can
handle – This is a time when you
can experiment and find a way
of living that really suits you, but
this can take time. Try not to be
pressured or influenced by others’
opinions and actions. Try to make
decisions about life choices in the
cold light of day, so that you know
how you want to respond if you
end up in a tricky situation.
Confront difficulties – In a new
environment it’s easy to waste
time worrying about things you
don’t understand or can’t control.
Don’t be afraid to ask the Student
Support team and many other
agencies external to BIMM who are
ready and willing to help you with
any problem or query, big or small.
Begin to see challenging situations
as a chance to overcome something
rather than a problem in your way.
Please remember that you are not
alone in feeling this way. These are
all questions that everyone in your
situation is asking themselves.
If you’re worried about making
friends, or not knowing the city,
or how to make a Bolognese;
remember that every other
person around you feels the same
way, and within just a couple of
days you will feel more at home
and comfortable than you can
even imagine.
25
Be healthy – Maintain a good
diet, get adequate sleep and
try to be active when you can;
people are often happier if they
are healthy. Register with a
local doctor’s surgery so that if
you fall ill you can get the right
care. If you are feeling stressed
or sad talk to the Student
Support team, they will find
you the right support; know
when you need to get some
extra help.
Make a budget – Work out how
much money you have for the
term, and how much you will
have to spend on unavoidable
costs like rent, food and bills.
This way you will know how
much you have left to spend on
yourself. Doing this will avoid
running out of money half way
through the term, which can be
very stressful.
Don’t work all the time – As
independent study is so
important at University, it can
sometimes be hard to give
yourself time off. Give yourself
regular breaks and occasional
days off.
Do work some of the time –
Being away from home and
with so much to do in a new
city, it can be easy to neglect
your work and fall behind in the
course. Make sure you find the
time for your studies to avoid a
stressful situation.
Be yourself! – People can’t get
to know and like you for who
you really are if you don’t act
like yourself. There are so many
people to potentially become
friends with, be yourself and
you will find the right friends
for you.
FACULTY INFORMATION
STUDENT CARDS
You will be issued with a BIMM student card and
lanyard at the start of your course provided we receive
a scanned photo. It is compulsory that you carry your
student card at all times when within BIMM.
STUDENT COMMON ROOM
There will be a common room in both of our buildings,
Passage Street and King Square.
PRACTICE FACILITIES
BIMM Institute Bristol has currently teamed up
with Drum Bank Music rehearsal rooms. This space
is available for students to book for practice and
rehearsals for free. There will be sessions made
available throughout the week during the day.
www.drumbankmusic.co.uk/#/rehearsals/4570851593
There are a number of other rehearsal rooms available
in Bristol. See list below:
www.factorystudios.co.uk www.rs-studios.co.uk
www.colstonhall.org/bristol-plays-music/unicorns-studios
26
BIMM Bristol has two campuses: King Square
and Passage Street. It is a 15-20 minute walk
between buildings.
BRITISH & IRISH MODERN MUSIC INSTITUTE
BIMM.CO.UK
BIMM Bristol
YOUR
MUSIC
CAREER
STARTS
HERE
WE’RE HERE TO HELP
YOU THROUGHOUT
YOUR TIME AT BIMM
BRISTOL
We are committed to helping you throughout your
studies with us at BIMM Bristol, and offer a wide
range of support services designed to meet your
academic and welfare needs. Don’t hesitate to
speak to us whenever required: T: 08442 646 666
E: [email protected]
08442 646 666
0044 8442 646 666
[email protected]
27
25 King Square
Bristol
BS2 8JN