Dedicated HND Music Student and talented pianist, Matthew Mcguigan, has concluded his four-year journey at NESCol with a graduation ceremony at the Music Hall in Aberdeen.

Born and raised in Aberdeen, 20-year-old Matthew had an unconventional education. After attending primary school, he transitioned to home education, a move which sparked his passion for music.

He said: “If not for my home education, I likely wouldn’t have had the opportunity to seek out piano lessons, which was my first step into music. This turned out to be a subject I truly engaged with.”

From home schooling to College

Matthew aspired to go to university but lacked the required qualifications. In 2020, he enrolled at NESCol, hoping to enhance his knowledge and skills at College before progressing to university.

He said: “I knew that I needed to go to university to attain the relevant qualifications and ultimately a solid understanding of western art music.

“To achieve this goal, I decided immersing myself in music on the Level 5 course at NESCol would be best for me, rather than the traditional route to university through Highers.

“From a young age I’ve never engaged with anything the same way I have with the piano.

“Something about learning an instrument seemed to click with my brain better than anything else, so when I came to the conclusion that it could be a career, I almost immediately started thinking about the route I’d need to take to get there. College was one of the first steps on that list.”

Studying music at NESCol

Over his four years, Matthew completed music courses at SCQF Levels 5 and 6, before undertaking his HND.

He said: “When my studies first started, I wasn’t as confident of a person as I am now. I feel College has been key to my growth as an individual.

“I have now developed what I believe to be strong professional conduct in my subject area – this is something that I would say NESCol excels at.

“Being equipped with practical knowledge of how the music industry operates is empowering when it comes to making informed decisions about my career.”

Matthew thoroughly enjoyed the course content and felt that his lecturers provided a well-rounded approach to music education.

He said: “What makes College unique is the information you receive around topics like music technology. This is something you wouldn’t find in higher education courses that focus on classical music for example.

“The teaching quality has been phenomenal. Your specific interests are catered to, but you are also given a broad music education. I found that if you communicate with lecturers, they are more than happy to talk to you and spend time on your specific issues. They want you to pass!

“The Live Performance Unit is also a fantastic tool for developing confidence in young individuals, an aspect of which involves in-class performances. It’s the perfect low stress environment to receive fair and helpful criticism.”

Matthew’s NESCol highlights

A standout aspect of Matthew’s College experience was meeting other passionate musicians who were just as serious about music as he was.

He said: “The College provides many opportunities to collaborate and create with others that share your passion. It’s a fantastic social and educational experience.”

Matthew also praised the music department’s facilities as well as the equipment and instruments on offer.

He said: “The Multimedia Team plays a huge part in why NESCol’s facilities are respected amongst students. It provides a wide range of equipment from vintage-style keyboards to modern microphones, it’s all at your fingertips as a student if you just ask.”

Matthew’s future music career

Although Matthew has now achieved his ambition of studying music at the University of Aberdeen, he is devoted to continuing to learn throughout his whole career.

He said: “It is my goal to diversify myself in this industry. If the course has made one thing clear, it’s that a musician must be adaptable and multi-talented.

“My primary goal is to teach in higher education or university; however, I also plan to perform at weddings and deliver private lessons.”

Would Matthew recommend studying at NESCol?

“I would absolutely recommend NESCol – but don’t think it’s a free ride! For example, the music course requires you to put in many hours to become proficient at your instrument.

“My advice is don’t slack as there’s lots to be learned. You get out what you put into your course tenfold, so make sure you use your time here wisely and efficiently. Make good use of the facilities and most of all, don’t be afraid to ask for help.”