Tutor handbook 2009-2010 Contents Page

Vaseema Hamilton

Principal

BIMM ETHOS

1. 
   BIMM is run by Musicians for Musicians
   

We care about quality musical performance and have created an environment where artists and bands and those studying the music industry can develop within a thriving live scene. We measure the college by the quality of music that we collectively produce - it’s a simple as that.

1. 
   Playing and writing ‘simple’ music to very high standards
   

Of course we want musicians to be able to play anything from reggae to jazz fusion - but the point is we want them to do it well. Great musicians have authority and personality in their playing; particularly those with stadium level gigs and hit record experience under their belts. That’s what makes us pay money to listen to them.



Playing simple things well is often the last element of a professional musician’s development. Why? - because it’s hard. This whole concept is difficult to teach and we will spend a lot of time discussing ways to make students aware of the hallmarks of professional performance. We will focus on timing, use of click tracks, phrasing and tone production, thereby working towards students gaining the confidence of a professional in their own work. We want to help musicians find their own voice too and encourage personality and self expression within musical performance. Our role is that of a ‘coach’ as well as specialist instrumental teachers.

1. 
   Work ethic
   

Sounding great counts for nothing unless you do something with it and this requires a whole new set of skills, energy and effort. Each musician is an individual and we recognise that. We want all the musicians at BIMM to establish their own realistic and obtainable career goals, underpinned by a solid plan and support from people with the professional knowledge to advise in a considered way. With hard work and effort anything is possible - as you can see by the achievements of some of our graduates.