Tell us about your production journey so far – how long have you been producing? What drew you to it in the first place?

I had been producing just under 2 years at the time in Ableton. I had been eyeing up Toolroom Academy for a long time since its first inception but had never the money to do it and the wait was totally worth it.

Week 1 of the course focuses on artist identity and positioning. Did this make you analyse your sound in any way?

This was a big test as I like so many different genres and choosing the right balance of track for the course and style to play out consistently down the line was certainly eye opening and a challenge.

What other modules really stood out to you throughout the 12 weeks?

Each individual module had its own key bit of information which I’ve learned from but the arrangement and automation modules were ones that really stood out and gave me the most amount of knowledge to take forward as these were the ones I struggled with the most.

How important was the A&R feedback throughout your journey?

This was key! I am so grateful for having these available. A 12-week journey is tough especially working on the 1 track. These feedbacks kept me on track and have allowed me to try various things to help get me out of a creative slump.

How happy were you with the track you made over the course of the 3 months?

I am very happy with the track it was great to get the feedback from the rest of the team and peers on the live A&R session. I have now used what I have learned and create more complete tracks which I am proud of.

What do you think was unique or different about the Production Certificate compared to other programmes/schools out there?

Having done a previous production course in my early stages and felt deflated by the end of the course and not satisfied with what I have learned. This was the polar opposite because it gets everyone to start from base upwards to cater for everyone who are at different stages of their production journey. Able to provide in depth details without confusing matters. Then allowing us to express ourselves and providing the personalised 1 to 1 feedback videos based on our coursework entries meant we were constantly learning.

How would you compare your production ability/knowledge now, compared to when you started the course?

When I started the course, I had just been self-taught during the lockdown period, so my knowledge was limited. I now have more tools to my arsenal. I am able to write tracks, get ideas down and completed quicker to a higher standard.

Has your ability on Logic/Ableton improved since you’ve taken the course?

Big time, the difference in the few tracks I had completed prior to where they are now is 2nd to none. I am very grateful.

Did you manage to connect and built relationships with other students on the course?

Yes, I have we have all been supporting each other and have been talking to the previous alumni and building connections through the group.