Academy of Contemporary Music
City | Country |
London | United Kingdom |
The Academy of Contemporary Music (ACM) is a premier institution specializing in music and creative arts education, with campuses in Guildford, Surrey; Birmingham; and London, England. Established in 1997, ACM offers a range of programs designed to prepare students for careers in the creative industries.
Programs and Courses
ACM provides diverse courses across several academies:
- Music Academy: Focuses on ensemble skills, recording techniques, technical development, collaboration, and artist development.
- Game Academy: Offers instruction in design, programming, audio, business, and art animation.
- Business Academy: Covers areas such as artist and tour management, creative entrepreneurship, marketing, and distribution.
- Film Academy: Includes training in podcast and radio broadcasting, live radio studios, branding, audience engagement, digital marketing, and social media strategy.
- Live Sound: Emphasizes touring, venue operations, lighting/AV, rigging, and backline management.
- Sound Technology: Focuses on hands-on learning in recording, mixing/mastering, and collaboration with industry professionals.
- Postgraduate Programs: Designed for advanced industry engagement, leadership development, and project planning to launch careers.
Industry Partnerships
ACM maintains strong ties with the industry, notably through its exclusive association with Metropolis Studios in London. This partnership offers students unparalleled access to a working commercial studio environment, bridging the gap between education and industry.
Campuses
Students can choose to study at one of ACM's three campuses:
- London (Brixton): Located in the heart of the city's vibrant music scene.
- Birmingham: Situated in a dynamic and culturally rich urban center.
- Guildford: The original campus offering a blend of historic charm and modern facilities.
Notable Alumni
ACM boasts a roster of successful alumni, including:
- Newton Faulkner: Singer-songwriter known for his album "Hand Built By Robots."
- Amelle Berrabah: Member of the pop group Sugababes.
- Ben King: Lead guitarist of The Yardbirds.
- Matty Healy: Lead vocalist and guitarist of The 1975.
- Ed Sheeran: Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter.