A Telford College student has her sights set on a career in the music industry after a change of direction in her studies.
Keely Archbold, from Shifnal, deferred from a pathway of sports and football to follow a new career goal – and says she couldn’t be happier with the choices she has made.
“I came to Telford College because friends of mine had secured places at Leeds College of Music and Liverpool, and watching them performing at their own gigs inspired me to do the same,” said the 18-year-old.
“I have loved the staff and the course here, and despite the Covid pandemic and the difficulties it brought, the course has really improved my skills as a musician and prepared me well for the next steps.”
Keely, a former Idsall School student, said the best part of the course was the chance to find out about the different sectors in the industry.
She said it helped to open her eyes to how many opportunities there were right across the board, and she realised that she didn’t have to choose just one specific sector.
“I’d say to anyone thinking of studying music at Telford College to just go for it.
“I was lucky enough to already have friends going into the same course, but I have also made new friends who are all working towards the same aim. It has really helped me as a person and as a musician.”
Keely has now moved on to study songwriting at Leeds Conservatoire, and although she hasn’t yet decided on a definite career path, she says she loves the idea of becoming a music journalist.
Andy Turner, the college’s learner manager for creative and music, said: “Keely made an immediate impression on the music staff here when she submitted her audition video.
“It was of an original song she had written and performed on guitar and vocals, using a loop pedal. It was clear that songwriting was an area of strength for her.
“It was great to see her develop as an all-round modern musician with us, including when she performed live at virtual events for the college, for the Shropshire Chamber Business Awards, and to an audience at our own end of year event.
“We have every confidence that Keely will continue to develop and progress at university and look forward to hearing her compositions in the near future.
More information about the latest Telford College music courses can be found at see www.telfordcollege.ac.uk/courses/full-time/music
