Former student Caleb Adjepong is enjoying life at BIMM University in Birmingham, after completing his studies at Telford College.
Previously a pupil at Ercall Wood Academy, Caleb left the college with three distinction-star grades, the highest achievable grade on the level 3 vocational course.
“I can’t remember what made me want to get into music” says Caleb. “I first bought a midi keyboard, a couple of drum pads and the mixing software Ableton Live and I just kept messing around with it.”
“I finished my time at secondary school and I decided I wanted to take this further, I saw that Telford College was my local college that offered a course that focused on the music I liked, compared to others that focused on classical.
Caleb showcases his work on his YouTube Channel, and was also part of a group called Habitual Line Steppers, created with a friend.
“I really enjoyed studying at the college, I like how the course caters to every individual, no matter what their style is. If you want to do something, there are resources to do it. There’s no feeling of being forced, you can go and study what you need to study. You’re given that creative freedom to say, ‘If I want to do this, I can,’ without guidelines forcing you to do something else.
“Outside of college, music is my lifestyle. It’s all connected—like skating, it’s one big rhythm. I’ll go home, make a beat, write some lyrics, even listen to music in the shower!
“When I write, I draw inspiration from other artists, mainly rappers, but I love all kinds of music. I’m a big fan of Sam Cooke and old-school sounds too.”
Now studying Music at BIMM University, a Birmingham-based university that specialises in music, film and performing arts, Caleb is enjoying his first year in higher education.
“I’m finding BIMM to be excellent in terms of resources and networking, I’ve met people who are just as eager to create music everyday, which is awesome!
“I’m looking to make a career in performance and, using the skills I’ve learnt to become as independent as possible, my knowledge in music tech will be a fundamental in moving forward.”
Benjamin Fitzharris, Music Lecturer at Telford College, said: “Caleb was an exceptionally dedicated and dynamic music production student who consistently demonstrated both creative vision and technical proficiency.
“Throughout his studies, Caleb developed outstanding music production skills, achieving an exemplary final grade of D*D*D*, earning Distinctions in every unit—a testament to his commitment and talent.
“He actively engaged in numerous professional opportunities, including performing multiple live gigs with The Habitual Line Steppers and travelling to Oxford, to record and produce live sessions for the band Mazawatte, who notably performed at the Glastonbury Festival this year.
“His impressive portfolio and proactive engagement with the industry position him strongly for future successes.”