- Postgraduate
Composition for Film and Television (distance learning) MMus
Overview
The MMus Composition for Film and TV (distance learning) degree course sits at the heart of the London College of Music.
It represents a creative hub for innovative, forward-thinking musical minds that, in the spirit of practice as research, join practical composition and academic inquiry.
Through an exploration of sophisticated compositional techniques, advanced orchestration, and audio-MIDI production, this composition course enables you to specialise in music composition for film and TV, while providing an insight into 21st-century practices and ideas.
Study Option
This is a distance-learning course which is studied online; however, we also offer a campus-based version of MMus Composition for Film and TV.
Select your desired study option, then pick a start date to see relevant course information:
Start date:
If your desired start date is not available, try selecting a different study option.
Why study Composition for Film and Television (distance learning) with us?
What our students say…
Course detail & modules
This music composition course provides excellent opportunities to develop your technical abilities in the fields of composition and orchestration for film and TV, offering the possibility to collaborate with internationally-known ensembles towards the recording and production of your work.
Such opportunities intend to enable you to strengthen and refine your own artistic voice and expand your musical and dramatic vocabulary.
Similarly, the course offers studio-based work on a variety of cinematographic genres, including historical, sci-fi and trailer, among others, alongside an exploration of audio and MIDI programming, which you will be able to implement in your own applied compositions, including electro-acoustic, screen, and other collaborative types of work.
Alongside practical exploration, the Composition for Film and TV (distance learning) degree offers the opportunity to broaden your scholarly knowledge in a variety of composition-related subject areas, such as score analysis, ensemble leading, and interdisciplinary applications, enabling you to converge your academic research towards a supervised Masters project.
Delivery method
The Masters course is taught through a threefold delivery method, featuring live online classes, pre-recorded video lessons, and written ancillary readings to be explored in own time; the latter includes insights, academic readings, and practical exercises.
Our highly experienced, award-winning, internationally acclaimed staff will guide you through both learning activities and assessment tasks, encouraging a sense of artistic experimentation in respect of classical, established traditions.
Requirements and other information
Being a distance learning course, students are required to have their own computer and access to a suitable internet connection. All students must have on their computers notation software (e.g. Sibelius, Dorico, etc.), audio editing and recording software (e.g. Logic, Cubase, ProTools), and a traditional text writing/editing software (e.g. Word, Pages, etc.). Also, it might be useful if students procure sound/instrumental samples; further advice on this can be provided by relevant lecturers.
Should students have specific technical questions, these can be addressed to the Course Leader, relevant Lecturers, and the University’s Media Resource Centre. Library access will take place online through both Blackboard and the Library’s webpage. UWL Library features online books, e-journals, and (in line with relevant copyrights) scanned copies of physical books. All students will be assigned a personal tutor who will provide pastoral support throughout the course if needed.
Guests, Partners, and Networking Opportunities
Our well-known Composers’ Workshop programme offers the opportunity to meet, discover, and collaborate with some of today’s leading composers, musicians and academics.
A wide variety of visiting artists regularly delivers seminars and workshops aimed at both presenting new cutting-edge works and discussing students’ compositions.
Some of our visiting artists and partners have included:
- Errollyn Wallen, concert composer
- Peter Fribbins, concert composer
- Rosabella Gregory, singer-songwriter composer
- Richard Jacques, video game composer
- Paul Barker, theatre composer
- Marco Biscarini, film composer
- Dominic Sewell, film composer
- Tom Harrison, film composer
- Gabriele Baldocci, concert pianist
- Alda Dizdari, concert violinist
- Gabriella Dall’Olio, harpist
- Kate Symonds-Joy, mezzo-soprano singer
- Chanan Hanspal, jazz-rock guitarist
- Valentina Ciardelli, double bass player
- Ligeti String Quartet
- Mifune Tsuji Trio
- Southwark International Music Festival
- Soundings Festival
- Orchestra Vitae
- London Guitar Festival
- Phacelia Ensemble
Compulsory modules
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Practical Composition 1
The Practical Composition modules (1 and 2) aim to consolidate and develop advanced compositional techniques, facilitating the learning of skills required of the contemporary professional composer. Alongside an exploration of contemporary compositional ideas, a variety of 20th and 21st-century aesthetics, and sophisticated techniques, you will consider and analyse a number of case studies within which conceptual ideas and compositional practices mutually reflect and support one another; an aspect that will support your practice-as-research investigations.
You will be taught through one-to-one tutorials, seminars and workshops. The one-to-one sessions will give you the opportunity to develop your own portfolio and discuss your compositional work, techniques and ideas with one of our experts, who will support and encourage your artistic and pragmatic thinking.
You will work towards the submission of a portfolio of diverse compositional exercises that fulfil the requirements of the appropriate syllabus.
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Practical Composition 2
The Practical Composition modules (1 and 2) aim to consolidate and develop advanced compositional techniques, facilitating the learning of skills required of the contemporary professional composer. Alongside an exploration of contemporary compositional ideas, a variety of 20th and 21st-century aesthetics, and sophisticated techniques, you will consider and analyse a number of case studies within which conceptual ideas and compositional practices mutually reflect and support one another; an aspect that will support your practice-as-research investigations.
You will be taught through tutorials, seminars and workshops. The one-to-one sessions will give you the opportunity not only to develop your own portfolio but also to discuss your compositional work, techniques and ideas with one of our experts, who will support and encourage your artistic and pragmatic thinking.
Differently from Practical Composition 1, Practical Composition 2 will allow you to consider your final portfolio in relation to your future career, encouraging you to reflect on the possible industry routes and networking opportunities that better suit the artistic and practical nature of your compositional work.
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Professional Orchestration and Arrangement
Building upon your prior knowledge and experience of writing for orchestral instruments, this module will give you the opportunity to both further develop your orchestration and arranging skills and give you an insight into the process(es) of orchestrating according to Midi tracks and handwritten sketches.
This will allow you not only to exercise and enhance your technical abilities as an orchestrator but will also give you an insight into the technicalities of the profession; a profession in which you might be commissioned to orchestrate from handwritten or Midi sketches.
At the same time, this module will enable you to explore a variety of styles, giving you the opportunity to create pastiche works that match the aesthetics, techniques and procedures of established composers/orchestrators.
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Audio and MIDI Production
This module is designed to provide you with music programming skills in audio, MIDI recording and editing, and to lead to the electronic delivery of two contrasting assignments suitable for broadcast in the professional environment.
The academic written element underpins this work by providing students with the necessary literature surrounding musical programming in current work settings.
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Music Score Production
You will study the conventions and responsibilities of professional practice in your area of specialism including briefs, deadlines, layout, presentation, conducting, rehearsal and recording or performance. This module will give technical support to your work in original composition. It will provide key skills essential to the professional composer working in today’s music industry.
As part of this module, you will consider, discuss, and put into practice a number of pragmatic aspects related to the production of music within a studio environment/situation. This will include the production of professionally generated scores and parts, liaising with collaborators, conducting your own work for recording, and presenting your own ideas to the musicians and collaborators involved in studio work.
This module will enable you to gain the professional knowledge and skills needed by the contemporary composer/orchestrator within the current industry, allowing you to develop a concrete insight into the dynamics of studio production.
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Research Methods
The purpose of this module is to train you in research methods and critical methodology as preparation for undertaking research and is designed to support and advance the project work produced during the rest of your study through a developed investigation of research methods.
You will define, articulate and critically reflect upon the research concerns of your own practice during this unit, thereby underpinning and enhancing your knowledge and understanding of the chosen field of study, as well as developing your ability to communicate this in a variety of ways. This will enable you to develop your writing and analytical skills.
This module will feature some composition-specific sessions dedicated to MMus Composition and MMus Composition for Film and TV students. Such dedicated sessions will concentrate on the interplay between creative practice and academic research, allowing a sophisticated exploration of practice-as-research – and more specifically of composition-as-research – as a paramount mode of practice that juxtaposes and combines creative and scholarly thinking.
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Masters Project
This module aims to strengthen students’ practical and musical thinking through scholarly research and critical reflection. It provides the opportunity for students to deal with and convey complex ideas in systematic and independent ways, by encouraging them to formulate and propose new concepts and practices that can directly relate to their own compositional work.
Ultimately, the module invites students to consider the notion of composition-as-research, a paramount mode of practice that juxtaposes and combines creative and scholarly thinking.
The module will be delivered through a mixture of live online classes (group tuitions and one-to-one supervisions), pre-recorded video lessons, and written ancillary reading to be explored in own time, such as academic readings, insights, and practical exercises.
Entry requirements
You should have an honours degree in music specialising in composition or a degree in another subject plus substantial relevant experience in composition.
You will need to provide:
- a portfolio of original works (including film and television work), scores (essential) and recordings (desirable)
- a written statement
You will be invited to attend an interview and will need to provide references.
We look for students who show enthusiasm and a passion for the subject through previous study or professional experience.
If you have any questions about the relevance of your qualifications or experience please contact the course leader shown in the teaching staff.
You need to meet our English language requirement of 6.5 overall score for IELTS, with a minimum of 5.5 for each of the 4 individual components (Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening). Visit our English language requirements page for information on other English language tests we accept.
You also need academic qualifications at the same level as UK applicants. In some countries where teaching is in English, we may accept local qualifications. Check for local equivalents.
We offer pre-sessional English language courses if you do not meet these requirements. Find out more about our English Language courses.
You will be asked to provide a portfolio of original works (including film and television work), scores (essential) and recordings (desirable).
Applicants will normally be invited to an interview, which may be online for international applicants who cannot travel here.
We look for students who show enthusiasm and a passion for the subject through previous study or professional experience.
If you have any questions about the relevance of your qualifications or experience please contact the course leader shown in the teaching staff.
Fees & funding
The fee above is the cost per year of your course.
If your course runs for two years or more, you will need to pay the fee for each academic year at the start of that year. If your course runs for less than two years, the cost above is for your full course and you will need to pay the full fee upfront.
Government regulation does affect tuition fees and the fees listed for courses starting in the 2025/26 academic year are subject to change.
If no fee is shown above then the fees for this course are not available yet. Please check again later for updates.
Funding your studies
If you are studying a Masters course you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Loan, this may help contribute towards your course fees and living costs.
Additional funding is available to some types of students, such as disabled students or those with dependants.
We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries, including awards for specific subjects.
Awards for music students are also on offer.
View full details, including conditions and eligibility.
The fee above is the cost per year of your course.
If your course runs for two years or more, you will need to pay the fee for each academic year at the start of that year. If your course runs for less than two years, the cost above is for your full course and you will need to pay the full fee upfront.
Government regulation does affect tuition fees and the fees listed for courses starting in the 2025/26 academic year are subject to change.
If no fee is shown above then the fees for this course are not available yet. Please check again later for updates.
International students - funding your studies
We offer scholarships for international students including International Ambassador Scholarships.
Further information about funding and financial support for international students is available from the UK Council for International Student Affairs.
Teaching staff
Dr Simone Spagnolo
I am a Senior Lecturer and Course Leader for Composition at the London College of Music. I have composed music for concerts, theatre, opera, ballet, film and multimedia. My music has been performed in internationally known venues and festivals such as London's Royal Festival Hall, St. Martin-in-the-Fields, Birmingham Conservatoire, Stanford University, LA's Aratani Theatre, Budapest's Liszt Academy and Hong Kong's Yuen Long Theatre.
I am a Senior Lecturer and Course Leader for Composition at the London College of Music. I have composed music for concerts, theatre, opera, ballet, film and multimedia. My music has been performed in internationally known venues and festivals such as London's Royal Festival Hall, St. Martin-in-the-Fields, Birmingham Conservatoire, Stanford University, LA's Aratani Theatre, Budapest's Liszt Academy and Hong Kong's Yuen Long Theatre.
Study & career progression
There is a wide range of potential careers and jobs for composition graduates.
Our MMus Composition for Film and Television graduates have gone on to achieve success working on a diverse range of projects for an impressive list of clients, including:
- the BBC
- The National Theatre
- Youth Music Theatre UK
- Projection Pictures
- Sky
- Channel 4
- the British Film Institute.
Recent alumni successes include the creation of a major soundtrack score for the Imperial War Museum's authentic film footage from the First World War trenches and the critically acclaimed reconstruction and recording of film scores for Quo Vadis (Miklos Rosza) and Lawrence of Arabia (Maurice Jarre).
Most students progress directly into the industry after completing this course, however you may choose to undertake a PhD or further your compositional studies with a DMus. Find out more about LCM research.
How to apply
You can apply online at any time by following the link below.
Our application form will ask you for some information about:
- what you want to study
- your previous qualifications or experience
- your references
- how we can contact you.
Want to ask us a question first? We would love to hear from you. Contact us free on:
- 0800 036 8888
- courses@uwl.ac.uk
Apply for this course
5pm Friday 26 April - 8am Monday 29 April 2024
Due to maintenance work, the UWL application system will not be available during this time. Applications can still be made via UCAS as normal. Please contact admissions@uwl.ac.uk for any help with submitting your application during this time.
Visit us and see for yourself
Talk to our tutors and find out about our courses and facilities at our next open day or join a campus tour.
We're here to help
Any questions about a course or studying at UWL? We're here to help - call us on 0800 036 8888 (option 2, Monday – Friday 10am-4pm) or email us on courses@uwl.ac.uk.
Our postgraduate prospectus
All of our courses in one place - download now or order a hard copy.
You can apply online at any time by following the link below.
Our application form will ask you for some information about:
- what you want to study
- your previous qualifications or experience
- your references
- how we can contact you.
Want to ask us a question first? We would love to hear from you. Contact us free on:
- 0800 036 8888
- courses@uwl.ac.uk
Apply for this course
5pm Friday 26 April - 8am Monday 29 April 2024
Due to maintenance work, the UWL application system will not be available during this time. Applications can still be made via UCAS as normal. Please contact admissions@uwl.ac.uk for any help with submitting your application during this time.
Visit us and see for yourself
Talk to our tutors and find out about our courses and facilities at our next open day or join a campus tour.
We're here to help
Any questions about a course or studying at UWL? We're here to help - call us on 0800 036 8888 (option 2, Monday – Friday 10am-4pm) or email us on courses@uwl.ac.uk.
Our postgraduate prospectus
All of our courses in one place - download now or order a hard copy.
You can apply online at any time by following the link below.
Our application form will ask you for some information about:
- what you want to study
- your previous qualifications or experience
- your references
- your visa (if required)
- how we can contact you.
Want to ask us a question first? Our dedicated international students’ team would love to hear from you.
- email international@uwl.ac.uk to submit a question
Apply for this course
5pm Friday 26 April - 8am Monday 29 April 2024
Due to maintenance work, the UWL application system will not be available during this time. Applications can still be made via UCAS as normal. Please contact admissions@uwl.ac.uk for any help with submitting your application during this time.
Visit us and see for yourself
Talk to our tutors and find out about our courses and facilities at our next open day or join a campus tour.
We're here to help
Any questions about a course or studying at UWL? We're here to help - call us on 0800 036 8888 (option 2, Monday – Friday 10am-4pm) or email us on courses@uwl.ac.uk.
Our postgraduate prospectus
All of our courses in one place - download now or order a hard copy.
You can apply online at any time by following the link below.
Our application form will ask you for some information about:
- what you want to study
- your previous qualifications or experience
- your references
- your visa (if required)
- how we can contact you.
Want to ask us a question first? Our dedicated international students’ team would love to hear from you.
- email international@uwl.ac.uk to submit a question
Apply for this course
5pm Friday 26 April - 8am Monday 29 April 2024
Due to maintenance work, the UWL application system will not be available during this time. Applications can still be made via UCAS as normal. Please contact admissions@uwl.ac.uk for any help with submitting your application during this time.
Visit us and see for yourself
Talk to our tutors and find out about our courses and facilities at our next open day or join a campus tour.
We're here to help
Any questions about a course or studying at UWL? We're here to help - call us on 0800 036 8888 (option 2, Monday – Friday 10am-4pm) or email us on courses@uwl.ac.uk.
Our postgraduate prospectus
All of our courses in one place - download now or order a hard copy.
Search for courses
ARTSFEST
Find out more about the work our students produce and view some of their recent work by visiting our Music Performance and Composition ARTSFEST page.
Facilities
Performance spaces
Our flexible, professionally-equipped performance spaces include Lawrence Hall, a 200-seat black box studio theatre, and Vestry Hall, a classical music performance space featuring a Steinway B Concert Grand piano, concert tuned percussion and seating for up to 150
Production studios
We have four black box production rooms featuring performance dance floors, ballet barres, wall mirrors and ¾ drapes. All rooms have PA and AV support in all rooms. The digital stage pianos are by Roland.
One-to-one teaching pods
We have five acoustically isolated teaching pods featuring Roland and Korg digital pianos and mirrors to facilitate one-to-one teaching in voice.
Music performance rooms
All music performance rooms feature drums and backline plus PA support.
- Drums by Roland and Pearl.
- Backline by Marshall, Orange, Line 6, Fender and Gallien-Kruger
- Stage pianos by Korg and Roland
- Synths by Roland and Kurzwiel
- PA by Yamaha, ABT and Nexo.
Basement practice rooms
- All LCM practice rooms benefit from LCM’s All Steinway School status to bring you the very best instruments.
- Three percussion practice and teaching rooms.
- Percussion rooms feature Pearl kits with recording and playback systems.
Media Resource Centre
At our Media Resource Centre (used by all subject areas) you'll find extensive portable audio recording systems, including up to 24 track digital HD recording and portable Focusrite RedNet systems.
There is also video-camera and accessory support, including LED and tungsten lighting systems, track and dolly systems and stedi-cam rigs.
News
UWL composition graduate works with band Elbow for BBC Radio 2’s Piano Room
Megan Heather Russell, a graduate from University of West London (UWL), recently worked with Mercury Prize-winning band Elbow on their live performance for BBC Radio 2’s Piano Room with the BBC Concert Orchestra. Two tracks recorded at the session also appear on the extended edition of 'Audio Vertigo', Elbow’s fourth number-one album in the UK.
Cultural exchange: UWL students visit the American Embassy
Last month, a group of BA (Hons) Broadcast and Digital Journalism students were invited to the US Embassy in London to find out about what goes on in the world of diplomacy and international relations.
UWL students and graduates connect with organisations at Creative Careers Fair
UWL’s Placement and Employment Services welcomed more than four hundred students and graduates to their dedicated event for LCM and LSFMD students.
UWL Associate Professor in Photography invited to present at Harvard University
Dr Junko Theresa Mikuriya was invited by Harvard University's Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS) CAMLab to present a paper at the ‘Medium of the Mind’ conference held on 8 and 9 March.
Inclusive storytelling: world premiere of new musical FABLE takes place at UWL
Students performed a new musical and snapshots of another production by esteemed musical stage writers and composers Kurt Kansley and Oliver Lidert at a recent Gala event at the Ealing campus.
Art Attack: UWL Connects students with alumni in the arts
UWL recently offered practical advice to students looking to forge a career in the arts with the help of its former students.
Fashion Industry students create social media campaign for British brand during London Fashion Week
London Fashion Week saw the launch of an exciting social media campaign, produced for Alchemy London by students at the London School of Film, Media and Design.
UWL hosts inaugural TEDx event: Beyond Boundaries: Unleashing Limitless Perspectives
Topics under discussion included SEGA Europe and cyber security; research on astronaut bone health using smart tech to improve osteoporosis; digital dexterity, artificial intelligence (AI) and the future of creative communications and immersive engineering.
Bridging generations: UWL students support Age UK Ealing in creating a film sharing older people’s perspectives
Media and Communications students from UWL's London School of Film, Media and Design (LSFMD) are helping Age UK Ealing to record the views of older people to share with local and national politicians in the run up to the general election.
University of West London professor asked what makes a perfect song by Sky News ahead of the Brit Awards 2024
Sky News’ Data and Forensics unit interviewed LCM lecturer Professor Simon Zagorski-Thomas ahead of the 2024 Brit Awards about the make-up of the tracks nominated for various accolades.
UWL Photography student’s work goes on show at Brentford Library
'Futuristic Towers at Dusk', which captures images of the skyscrapers of Canary Wharf, features as part of the Creative People & Places Hounslow Creative Arts Programme.
Platinum music producer RP9 and manager Cem visit the University of West London to share industry insights
Richard ‘RP9’ Tucker has worked with artists including Ed Sheeran, Emeli Sande and Central Cee, who recently won two MOBO awards. Cem, who runs music management company Rebel Records, has worked with artists including Big Narstie, Akala and Jax Jones.
The Ealing Wind Orchestra plays debut concert at the University of West London
The recently formed orchestra is currently made up of 35 musicians, eight of whom are students at the University’s London College of Music. The free concert took place in Weston Hall and included music from The Lord of the Rings and Mission: Impossible films.
The University of West London’s BSc Games, Design and Animation students team up for a Games Jam
Students from UWL’s London School of Film, Media and Design (LSFMD) and London College of Music (LCM) joined together in January for a week-long ‘Games Jam’, with three teams each creating a completed game in just five days. The week ended with awards for the best games produced.
Olivier-nominated composer Andrew T Mackay advises music student workshops and gives public lecture at the University of West London
Andrew, whose work on the theatrical adaptation of Life of Pi was honoured with a 2022 Olivier Awards nomination, is an alumnus of UWL’s London College of Music (LCM) having studied piano and clarinet there from 1982-1985.
Work in Process exhibition shows off UWL Graphic Design and Visual Effects students’ latest work at the Ealing Project
The joint exhibition, showcasing the work of students from all years, is running until the end of February.
Alumni Spotlight: Eve Winstanley
If you’re a fan of BBC show Strictly Come Dancing and its companion show It Takes Two, or Channel Four’s Naked Attraction, then you’ve seen the work of UWL alumnus Eve Winstanley, who served as their Executive Producer.
Meet Dr Annie Yim, the LSO performer and London College of Music lecturer using music to address mental health
Dr Yim is receiving UWL's Knowledge Exchange seed funding for a spoken word mental health research project.
UWL Media and Design students benefit from expert advice
Students from the London School of Film, Media and Design (LSFMD) received guidance from experts in their fields as part of a week of enhancement activities across the School.
Local school pupils experience BA (Hons) Acting students’ performance of Twelfth Night at the University of West London
The visit was part of UWL’s outreach programme which aims to build strong partnerships with local schools and support young learners in the community.
Special effect: University of West London VFX students visit Framestore
November saw a group of 19 LSFMD students visit the London offices of animation and VFX company Framestore, the creative studio responsible for effects on top films including Barbie and the Paddington movies.
University Community Choir hits all the right notes with students and staff
Every Monday evening, students and staff from the University of West London come together on campus for the Community Choir, an initiative from the London College of Music (LCM) and Student Experience.
University of West London journalism students visit the Guardian News and Media (GNM) archive
The GNM archive collects and preserves documents and objects that tell the story of the Guardian and Observer over the last 200 years and can be visited by appointment.
Hats off! Winter graduation starts at Twickenham
Two days of graduation ceremonies are taking place on 28 and 29 November for UWL students at Twickenham Rugby Stadium.
Album composed by LCM students and performed by violinist Timothy Schwarz released
An album of new works for solo violin by eight composition students and two lecturers is being released on Friday 24 November by the University’s record label London Noise Records.
UWL student selected as Royal Television Society (RTS) TV Production and Journalism Bursary winner
Each recipient receives financial support to help them with living costs and expenses along with networking opportunities and free membership of the RTS.
UWL lecturer chairs discussion at the Royal Opera House about the power of the arts to aid recovery
The event followed a sell-out performance of ‘Traces through Time’, which explores complex journeys of people in recovery, fusing dance, live music and the spoken word.
LCM Sessions: The place to be on a Tuesday evening
LCM Sessions are free weekly live music events held at Freddie’s, UWLSU’s Student Lounge. The gigs showcase a variety of artists, mostly from London College of Music, and vary in genre every week.
UWL Advertising, Branding and Communication students’ work wins high praise from Orange
Students Bethonie Waring and Kolade Shasi came up with the winning pitch out of four pairs of students who worked on advertising campaigns for Orange Business, for a course module which connects students with industry.
Winners of Hounslow schools’ 'Battle of the Bands' come to UWL to record a song
Two students from Gumley House School in Isleworth beat seven other bands to win a two-day session with Dr Dan Pratt, Course Leader for BA (Hons) Recording Mixing and Production at UWL’s London College of Music.
Drama Studio London tutor enjoys success as an actor and Oscar-nominated producer
Henry Hereford, also a UWL alumnus, starred alongside Edris Elba in the chart-topping 2023 film Luther: The Fallen Sun.
UWL Advertising and PR students work on London Transport Museum event
"London Calling" aims to welcome those new to the city, particularly university students. Taking place on Friday 6 October, the evening event will feature a scavenger hunt, creative workshops, talks, drinks and music.
Alumni Spotlight: Film composer Matt Dunkley
The LCM alumnus has served as conductor, arranger and lead orchestrator on film and television hits like Andor, Enola Holmes 2, No Time to Die, Black Swan, Top Gun: Maverick, Succession and Barbie.
UWL professor wins in "smart cities" category of World Architecture Festival Awards
The awards recognise projects that best use design and architecture to tackle major world challenges including health, climate change, technology, ethics and values.
UWL Clearing music student gets work experience with Stormzy
LCM student Megan Heather Russell was chosen to help with the arrangements for the final performance of the BBC Radio 2’s Piano Room series, via a mentoring scheme for early career musicians and composers.
UWL professor takes part in parliamentary discussion on how to fix the UK’s crisis of care
Professor Helen Hester was invited to take part following publication of her new book, 'After Work: A History of the Home and the Fight for Free Time'.
It’s a wrap: UWL’s students are the stars of the show for ARTSFEST 2023
UWL's ARTSFEST, which showcases the creativity and coursework of final year students from the London College of Music (LCM) and the London School of Film, Media, and Design (LSFMD), took place in venues across London between May and July.
2023 graduation celebrations begin for UWL students!
Across two days and eight ceremonies featuring thousands of students, 15 honorary degrees and countless handshakes and hugs, it is time for the University of West London’s graduation festivities to begin!
Alumni Spotlight: Brianna Ogunbawo
From 'The Book of Mormon' to 'The Lion King', Brianna Ogunbawo has enjoyed a successful career in the West End and beyond. We explore her journey from a London College of Music student to her current role as Laurie in current West End hit 'Oklahoma!'
Former LCM Honorary Professor, legendary music producer Robin Millar, receives knighthood
Sir Robin is most famous for his work as a record producer in the 1980s, working with artists including Sade, Fine Young Cannibals and Everything But The Girl.
Alumni Spotlight: Janek Valgepea, Musician and Eurovision Hopeful
Some people come to UWL and discover what they want to be, others arrive with a plan. Whatever you want to be, the University of West London is here to help you on your journey, just like we did for Janek Valgepea — who recently went from UWL to Eurovision.
LCM composition students collaborate with professional performers for ARTSFEST
Professional musicians including The Vincente Trio, violinist Timothy Schwarz and pianist Emanuele Mollica took part in workshops with the students and then performed their pieces.
Music academics gather at UWL to discuss common themes in pedagogy and practice research
UWL’s London College of Music (LCM) hosted fifty academics from around the world for a 21st Century Music Practice Conference recently, looking for common themes in pedagogy and practice research in performance, composition, record production, music technology, music business and arts administration.
University of West London degree show heads east as part of ARTSFEST
UWL final year BA (Hons) Photography and BSc (Hons) Visual Effects students from the London School of Film Media and Design (LSFMD) are having their work exhibited at the Espacio Gallery in Shoreditch. The showcase includes innovative coastal erosion photography and VFX project for multiple award-winning student filmmaker.
UWL fashion business students celebrate their new ideas at the Espacio Gallery
As part of ARTSFEST, 26 graduates from BA (Hons) Fashion Branding and Marketing, Buying and Management and Promotion and Imaging courses held a private view event on Tuesday 6 June, at the Espacio Gallery in Bethnal Green.
BAFTA winning UWL alumna gets dream career behind the camera
Maria Verdeille may have studied for a BA (Hons) in photography, graduating in 2019, but her passion for sport was what led her to her current role covering live sports events for television production company Whisper TV.
Alumni Spotlight: Jessie Pettit
Find out more about UWL Alumni Jessie Pettit; who found her passion in media which led her to start two companies helping young filmmakers.
Inaugural lecture by London School of Film Media and Design (LSFMD) Professor focuses on Samuel Beckett’s London
Professor of Film, Literature and Media Garin Dowd gave his Inaugural Professorial and Public Lecture on ‘Samuel Beckett’s London: Dislocating Metropolitan Modernism in Murphy’, to an audience of colleagues and guests in the Dr William Barry Theatre at St Mary’s Road on Tuesday 23 May.
Music students receive expert advice and equipment from producer and engineer Andy Strange
Music producer, engineer and UWL alumnus Andy Strange gave a guest lecture at the London College of Music recently where he shared experiences, stories and inside knowledge from 15 years’ working as assistant engineer to The Beatles’ music producer George Martin and his work with high profile artists such as the late Tina Turner, Robbie Williams, Elton John, Pulp and Michael Jackson.
Film and television conductor and orchestrator Matt Dunkley shares his wisdom with University of West London (UWL) music students
Celebrated and prolific conductor, composer and arranger Matt Dunkley, who has worked on film and television hits including Andor, Enola Holmes 2, No Time to Die, and Top Gun: Maverick, visited UWL on Wednesday 24 May. Matt is an alumnus of UWL’s London College of Music (LCM) having studied trumpet and piano here between 1983 and 1987.
LCM Acting students perform a play about the Windrush scandal as part of ARTSFEST
BA (Hons) Acting students at UWL’s London College of Music (LCM) recently performed ‘Wind / Rush Generation(s)’ by Mojisola Adebao, a play unravelling the history of the Windrush political scandal and its knock-on effects.
ARTSFEST kicks off with Advertising and Public Relations graduate showcase
Final year students applied the skills gained from their degree to set up and run a promotional evening event at Lost Society Battersea Bar and Restaurant.
Poets Talking event to bring live contemporary poetry to Ealing
The second Poets Talking event, organised by UWL’s English Literature and Creative Writing programmes, takes place at Open Ealing Arts Centre on Thursday 18 May at 7pm.
The Next Stop for Fashion encourages sustainable approach
The Next Stop for Fashion is the brainchild of Fashion Business students from the London School of Film, Media & Design at UWL. Held at the Ealing Project on Wednesday 10 May, the Next Stop offered attendees the chance to learn about repairing and upcycling their clothes, or even give them a second life as part of a clothes swap.
Alumni Award Winner: Emmanuel Ebokosia
The Alumni Awards honours those who have left UWL within the last five years. This year, we are pleased to announce that the UWL Recent Graduate Award winner 2023 is Emmanuel Ebokosia, who is using music management to enact social change.
String recording event brings LCM students from different disciplines together to collaborate
Students from a variety of courses at UWL’s London College of Music (LCM) recently gathered to collaborate at their annual string recording event in Vestry Hall, one of the University’s classical music performance spaces and recording studios.
UWL graduate shortlisted for British Journal of Photography’s Portrait of Britain Award
Fatbardha Salihu, who graduated from the University of West London’s School of Film, Media, and Design with a BA (Hons) in Photography last year, has been shortlisted for the Portrait of Britain Award.
UWL Professor speaks at Institut Francais on Jean-Luc Godard
Professor Garin Dowd recently gave a guest lecture at the Ciné Lumière at the Institut Français in London as part of its Jean-Luc Godard: Perspectives season, entitled 'Godard's 1980s: Self-portraiture and Surrogacy'.
UWL Professor of Screen Industries honours the work of music video pioneer Bruce Gowers
Emily Caston, UWL Professor of Screen Industries, appeared on Radio 4’s arts magazine show Front Row on Thursday 19 January, to discuss the work of pioneering video director and producer Bruce Gowers.
‘Emerging’ - A new photography exhibition by UWL students at Brentford Library
An exhibition of work by seven BA (Hons) Photography students at the University of West London’s School of Film, Media and Design opened at Brentford Library on 21 January.
Live from Maida Vale Studios: LCM student supports BBC Concert Orchestra
LCM student Megan Russell has been chosen to collaborate with the BBC Concert Orchestra on February’s Piano Room series of live concerts from Maida Vale Studios.
Electronic music showcases staff and student performances
Find out more about Lawrence Hall hosting live performances from LCM's BA electronic music production students, with a performance from d’Voxx from their latest album – ‘1984’ as part of the LCM Music Technology and Performance Winter Festival.
UWL Lecturer in Composition writing for the London Symphony Orchestra
Find out about UWL lecturer Litha Efthymiou who was selected from hundreds of applicants to be one of six emerging composers given the opportunity to write for the London Symphony Orchestra (LSO) as part of the Panufnik Composers Scheme.
Oh yes, they did! UWL’s Drama Studio London students put on a record number of productions for schoolchildren across Ealing
UWL’s Drama Studio London students to perform 48 hours of festive fun over five days.
UWL performance piece wins best new work award at student theatre festival in Bulgaria
Senior Lecturer in Musical Theatre Alejandro Postigo arranges a new performance piece called Miss Brexit. They performed it at Danail Chirpanski International Student Theatre Festival which took place in Stara Zagora, Bulgaria at the end of September, where it took the award for best new work.
Recovery arts
UWL played host to an all-day event to celebrate the central role performing arts organisations can play in recovery for people with addiction or wellbeing issues.
UWL Professor of Composition is radio station’s featured artist on his birthday
In honour of London College of Music (LCM) Professor Francis Pott’s 65th birthday on Thursday 25 August, specialist Belgian radio station Organroxx laid on an all-day showcase of his organ music.
Emergence 2022 – UWL BA Photography and BA Visual Effects degree show
Some 600 people attended the private view for Emergence 2022, which took place at the Espacio Gallery in Benthal Green on 20 June.
Future fashion stars…
UWL fashion and textiles students put together a final fashion show with a catwalk to showcase their designs.
ARTSFEST 2022: new talent on show
Students graduating from the London School of Film, Media and Design took centre stage this week as their work went on display as part of this year’s ARTSFEST, with events and exhibitions at the West London campus.
LCM looks to a digital future with Roland Cloud partnership
Creative students across UWL’s iconic London College of Music (LCM) can now benefit from access to even more facilities and creative technologies thanks to a partnership with Roland.
Meet the musicians of Ukraine in a special live concert
A very special concert will see musicians caught in the war in Ukraine coming together to perform at London College of Music this week.
UWL composer awarded highest honour of the Royal College of Organists
Francis Pott, an internationally renowned composer at London College of Music (LCM) has been awarded one of the most prestigious accolades in the industry for his ‘distinguished achievement in the fields of sacred choral and organ composition.’
Little Simz storms stage with Brits success
Little Simz – a former UWL student – has won Best New Artist at this year’s Brit Awards as well as performing for some of the biggest names in the industry during the televised ceremony.
Former UWL musician, Little Simz storms stage with BRITs success
Little Simz – a former UWL student – has won Best New Artist at this year’s Brit Awards as well as performing for some of the biggest names in the industry during the televised ceremony.
Student brings together music and communities for a good cause
Bringing together global communities through art and music, a UWL student has reached out to help children in Latvia while bringing together talent from LCM and beyond.
Musical future on the cards for stage-loving student
Taking to the stage to build her confidence, a UWL Musical Theatre student is preparing for a very creative career in the arts – and all thanks to her university course giving her the confidence to explore all of her skills as a performer.
Musician heads for truly international future with UWL
Laying the foundations for a successful career in the industry, a musician is making the most of connections and expert teaching in his first year of study at UWL.
Gaming lecturer joins major players to make waves in industry
A UWL graduate and senior lecturer has joined global giants to represent the industry as a director of the ‘voice of the gaming industry’ nationally.
Industry calling for student music manager
Getting a strong start to a future in music management, a UWL student is supporting new talent while she studies thanks to a unique opportunity to work with up-and-coming performers on the university’s newly launched record label.
Renowned musician and educator given honorary award
Composer and musician, John Howard, who has written for global audiences and helped educate generations of performers, has received an honorary degree from the University of West London (UWL).
Fashion student wows with clothes for superstar Emeli Sandé
From Heathrow check-in desk to online fame, a design student and mum is already making her mark on the fashion world after one of her very first creations took centre stage in Emeli Sandé’s latest music video.
Students make their mark at iconic Abbey Road studios
Playing in one of the world’s most iconic studios, musicians and composers from the University of West London (UWL) spent a day at Abbey Road to make the most of impressive links with the music industry.
Composer wins critical acclaim while studying
An Ealing student who founded his own orchestra as a teenager after more than a decade playing music, has now received international critical acclaim for two of his pieces – all while still studying for his degree.
UWL to launch new record label
The University of West London (UWL) is set to launch a record label with distribution to be provided by AWAL in a major new collaboration.
Student to take musical talents all the way to the USA
Gearing up for global success, a University of West London (UWL) student musician will see his talents come to life on the stage after writing a musical and reaching listeners all over the world.
Student composer makes waves in Europe
An aspiring UWL composer is already making her mark on the world stage, refusing to let self-doubt or Covid stop her from reaching her dream of a lifelong career in music.
UWL music graduate goes platinum
A UWL graduate and music engineer is celebrating major industry success after recording a hit single with artists Aitch and AJ Tracey.
UWL student DJ takes Spotify by storm with new tracks
Reaching millions of listeners with his new music, a DJ and University of West London (UWL) music student is embracing growing success with audiences all over the world.
The Crown calls for emerging actor
Using her linguistic talents to land her first major television role, a University of West London (UWL) student will make her debut appearance in award-winning Netflix series, The Crown.
Music graduate helps create iconic Bond theme
A London College of Music (LCM) graduate has added his name to cinema history by arranging the most recent chart-topping Bond theme with Billie Eilish.
UWL celebrates innovative opportunities with GRAMMY partnership
Music and arts students at the University of West London (UWL) can now access a wealth of unique creative opportunities and resources thanks to a new education partnership with the iconic GRAMMY Museum®.
BAFTA award-winning graduate looks back on successes
A University of West London (UWL) graduate is helping inspire new talent as he looks back on a string of successes including winning a sound BAFTA and working on dramas from Killing Eve to The Crown.
Media graduate speaks out about diversity after MBE award
A University of West London (UWL) graduate who founded Britain’s first urban film festival has warned that companies cannot stay relevant if they fail to recognise diversity on and off screen, after being made an MBE for his work in the industry.
Influential drama studio joins UWL
The University of West London (UWL) has announced that it has purchased Ealing-based Drama Studio London, which is now officially part of UWL.
UWL graduate recognised for her talent in music production
University of West London (UWL) graduate Rhiannon Mair has been nominated for two prestigious music awards for her recording work and projects.
UWL student wows The Voice judges (again)
A University of West London (UWL) student Christina Ellinas is through to the next round of ITV’s The Voice after winning the battle round!
UWL lecturer shares his experience of working with Rami Malek on Bohemian Rhapsody
Golden-Globe-Award-winning box office smash Bohemian Rhapsody celebrates the life and career of Queen front man - and one of UWL’s most notable alumni - Freddie Mercury.
Album composed by LCM students and performed by renowned violinist released
Acclaimed violinist and Visiting Professor of Performance, Timothy Schwarz, has performed and recorded a collection of songs composed by London College of Music students and lecturers.
The album, a collaborative project across LCM, has been released by the University’s record label London Noise Records and is available on all major music streaming platforms.
Find out more about this story and LCM achievements.
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Testimonials - our students or former students provided all of our testimonials - often a student from the course but sometimes another student. For example, the testimonial often comes from another UWL student when the course is new.
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