Student Spotlight: Cameron Alcock

Multi- instrumentalist, Cameron Alcock is part of our current group of students in their final weeks of their course. We took this opportunity to put the spotlight on him and his experience at Abbey Road Institute Johannesburg.

“In high school I started playing violin, piano and Bass, gigging with some friends. I started learning basic production in my bedroom. I took every opportunity I could to be involved with the music I loved. “

WHAT inspired you to study at ABBEY ROAD INSTITUTE AND WHAT are YOU HOPING TO GET OUT OF THE COURSE?

I wanted to gain professional experience and enter into the professional industry as opposed to the world of amateur hobbyists. As a result ARI’s apprenticeship approach intrigued me. I have learnt music production and sound engineering by practical, hands on experience and interaction with the pros. ARI’s approach is unique in this respect: It makes you a well rounded engineer or producer – provided you’re willing to put in the work.

WHAT IS YOUR EXPERIENCE LIKE AT ABBEY ROAD INSTITUTE AFTER TWO TERMS?

My experience has been surreal. The amount I’ve been able to learn in just over six months is insane. I’ve gone from a bedroom producer with very remedial production and engineering skills to someone who can produce and engineer at a consistent standard that I am very proud of. In truth I feel confident in my progress. The course has consistently enriched my understanding of music. For instance the concept of “crate digging” and sampling intrigues me and inspires me to do what I do to this day.

CAN YOU DESCRIBE A HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR EXPERIENCE AT ABBEY ROAD INSTITUTE?

I’ve absolutely loved working with artists to bring their visions to light in general. For instance, teaming up with Ben Schomaker from Abbey Road Institute Amsterdam was something special. A highlight of mine was writing the theme for the 2022 Ride Joburg event with colleague of mine. In addition, getting to meet Concorde Nkabinde, an artist having worked with the likes of Johnny Clegg and Miriam Makeba was too cool. He shared some very valuable insight on the music industry, confidence and the value of marketing yourself. This changed my view astronomically.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVOuRITE THING ABOUT STUDYING IN JOHANNESBURG, South Africa?

The live jazz scene is underrated in Johannesburg, but it’s definitely some of the best in the world. With so many cool spots to visit and party at and a wide range of good live music to choose from, you’re sure not to be bored anytime soon.

What are 3 things you have learnt at Abbey Road Institute JB?

1. Abbey Road Institute Jhb has taught me the importance of professionally approaching a recording session and subsequent mix.
2. The value of networking and the opportunities that come with doing so.
3. Lastly, the ability to be confident in my work and art – something that I feel every artist struggles with.

If you’d like to learn more about music production and sound engineering, have a look at our Advanced Programme in Music Production and Sound Engineering.