Alumni Spotlight - Daniel Scott
“Throughout my time at UHI Perth, the support from staff has been tremendous. It’s been, for me, arguably the highlight of my time there.”
At UHI Perth, we have more than 30 years' experience in teaching Popular Music in Scotland. Within our friendly community, students have the opportunity to develop their creative practice, vocational and musical identities.
In this week’s blog, we catch up with a recent graduate who completed their degree earlier this year and is already putting their skills and knowledge into practice in the workplace.
Can you introduce yourself?
My name is Daniel Scott and I’m from a small village in Perth and Kinross called Braco.
What course did you study at UHI Perth, and in what year did you complete your studies?
I studied BA (Hons) Popular Music, finishing up in May of this year!
How did you hear about UHI Perth?
The main way I heard about UHI Perth was through researching the best colleges/universities to study music around me, with the course at UHI Perth being the first of its kind in Scotland!
What were you doing before you came to UHI Perth?
I was finishing up my sixth year at Dunblane High School where I completed my Advanced Higher Music, with this being the time where I knew I wanted to pursue music further.
Why did you decide to pick this course?
The main reason I picked this course was the opportunity to experiment creatively, network and build relationships with like-minded people, develop my current skills, and build new ones.
What was your favourite thing about the course?
The various avenues you could go into and the choice of things to learn, whether that be audio workstations, instrumental skills, or working as a session musician, there were always things to do!
Were there any standout/memorable moments from your course?
My most memorable moment was the first ever performance at the Twa Tams in my HNC year. This gave me the confidence to later perform with bands outside of the course and explore my own musicianship more deeply.
What knowledge, skills and experience did you gain from your course that have helped you since leaving UHI Perth?
Studying the Musicianship, Identities and Wellbeing module was hugely beneficial to how I view myself. It gave me the space to reflect on my personal journey, navigate the challenges I’ve faced along the way as a musician, and realise that I’m not alone in that.
Did you undertake a placement or work experience whilst at UHI Perth?
I have done several placements whilst at UHI Perth, including leading music sessions at Dollar Academy, after-school workshops at Dunblane High School, and shadowing an NC Guitar class - with these providing several opportunities to adapt, develop and experiment.
What did you think about the styles of teaching, and the support you received from staff?
Throughout my time at UHI Perth, the support from staff has been tremendous. It’s been, for me, arguably the highlight of my time there, having my questions answered in a way that I could always understand and the opportunity of extra support whenever needed. The staff go above and beyond!
What did you like about the campus/facilities?
One of the main things I liked about the campus/facilities were the practice rooms and study spaces, with the quiet room providing a space to focus on my work away from distractions, and the practice rooms giving me time to focus on my vocals and guitar.
Were there any other achievements you gained, on your journey?
One of my biggest personal achievements was going from feeling nervous when I first started, to building the confidence to perform live, lead workshops, and make decisions more independently. Winning the Roland/Boss Music Educator of the Year award was the perfect milestone to top off that growth!
Upon starting your course, did you have a clear idea of the career path you wanted to follow after UHI Perth?
When starting off, I knew I wanted a career in music, but starting the course broadened my horizons. At first, I was focused on performance, but as I gained hands-on experience through educational placements and leading workshops, I realised how much I enjoyed teaching and helping others through music!
Are you currently employed?
I am currently employed with ‘Hear My Music’, a Glasgow-based music charity, helping with their music group called MUSAC in Livingston and Linlithgow for adults with disabilities, which I started last month. It’s such a joy to be involved with this, seeing the participants’ reactions to the music. The opportunity came up after volunteering with their Spectrum Summer week.
I am also starting a job with PLUS in Stirling, helping young people with disabilities doing whatever they love to do!
Do you feel your studies have helped you with your career? Was there anything you did whilst at UHI Perth that you think helped you secure your job?
It has played a significant part, with the opportunities I had in third and fourth year doing educational projects giving me experience for the jobs I applied for, showcasing my experience and skills and backing up this with practical experience.
What were the steps you took from graduation to your current role?
For me, most of the time was spent sending emails that highlighted my skills, emphasised my interest and showcased my CV, alongside asking people I know if there were any opportunities with them or if they knew of anything. It’s about knocking on as many doors as you can and seeing which ones open!
Looking back, I think if I was to start this process before finishing in May, it could have meant moving into something sooner. In my course, Professional Development is a fantastic way to try and source an opportunity outside of university for long-term employment.
Where would you like to go with your career in the future?
For the future, I would like to continue carrying on with music in educational settings, whether that be leading/supporting workshops or teaching lessons privately to help students grow not only on their instrument, but additionally grow their love for music.
Did you enjoy studying at UHI Perth? Any highlights?
It was a fantastic experience overall, with one major highlight being the award I got just this month, the Roland/Boss Music Educator of the Year award!
It’s such an honour to be given this award and to be acknowledged for the work I did, which I wouldn’t have been able to do without the support of my supervisor Anita, and so many others.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about studying at UHI Perth?
My advice to anyone thinking of studying at UHI Perth would be to study what you love, and don’t be afraid - go for it!
