"I have grown in confidence in my creative and collaborative skills - learning so much about vocal production, arranging, giving feedback, and in my own personal performance practice. It has been a fantastic experience to be able to work alongside performers and industry professionals who have given so much opportunity for developing my skills in Musical Direction."
Photo credit throughout: Emily Goldie
Meet passionate student Marie McAndrew who is currently studying our MA Musical Direction degree.
Being here has grown Marie's confidence in her creative and collaborative skills. When Marie isn't at the Conservatoire, she's spending time with their family and friends, and busy listening to and playing music.
We caught up with Marie about her time at Leeds Conservatoire so far, and she shared her advice for prospective students.
Where did your creative journey begin?
I have been working as a secondary school Music teacher and gigging musician for the past 14 years - I always had a passion for Performing Arts and wanted to develop my skills as a musician/musical director working in theatre.
What made you choose Leeds Conservatoire?
I chose Leeds Conservatoire because the new Master's degree in Musical Direction offers an all-encompassing experience of the type of work an MD might find themselves doing - working with Musical Theatre performers, Actor-Musicians and industry-professionals.
How has your course shaped your skills?
I have grown in confidence in my creative and collaborative skills - learning so much about vocal production, arranging, giving feedback, and in my own personal performance practice. It has been a fantastic experience to be able to work alongside performers and industry professionals who have given so much opportunity for developing my skills in Musical Direction.
What projects have you worked on so far?
I was Musical Director with Leeds Conservatoire's production of Boys Will Be Boys in December 2022 which was an incredible experience with an all-female cast and creative team. I am now involved with creating and musically directing two smaller-scale shows, Layla and The Flood, that will premiere at Leeds Conservatoire's "Festival of New Work" in July 2023, with hopes to bring the shows to fringe festivals in the future.
What's the coolest thing you've done on your course so far?
I've sat in the orchestra pit on various West End and touring musicals and each of these experiences were brilliant. It's fascinating to know what happens out of sight of the audience and how many people are involved in the music for these shows - the magic of theatre for me!
What is the best thing about studying in Leeds?
The people of Leeds are so friendly, the city is not too big so you never feel lost and it's easy to feel at home here.
What do you get up to outside of studying?
Music makes up a lot of my time outside of studying, whether that is listening to or playing music. Otherwise, I love spending time with family and friends.
What was the best piece of advice you’ve had since starting at Leeds Conservatoire?
Work smart! It might save you hours in the long run.
Why should someone study “MA Musical Direction” at Leeds Conservatoire? What advice would you give them?
You should study "MA Musical Direction" at Leeds to work with the most wonderful lecturers and performers and for the chance to explore where your skills will fit best as a music director in the industry. There are fantastic facilities at the Conservatoire and my advice would be to make the best of these resources from the very beginning of your studies.
Finally, how would you describe your experience at Leeds Conservatoire so far in three words?
Creative, collaborative, inspiring.
Do you want to be featured in a student profile? Email marketing@lcm.ac.uk for more information.
