Students have performed everywhere from Corporation and the Sheffield Food Festival to Sidney & Matilda. With some set to play at Tramlines and the Peddler Market this summer.
WaterBear first opened its doors in Sheffield last year and has quickly become a hub for new musicians and events. Founded by Adam Bushell and Bruce John Dickinson, the college is part of a new wave of musical schools that provide MA and BA degrees targeted to creating professional musicians.
In the first year of opening alone the school has produced several rising stars to watch out for. Including hip hop artist Kid Blu3, who has performed live for BBC Introducing, and Alice Ede, part of the Leadmill Orchestra, both are performing at Tramlines this July. Many of the students will also be volunteering at the upcoming Migration Matters Festival.
Students are also encouraged to hold their own music events, showcasing their talents and those of others. Jay Hargreaves, studying Professional Music Performance, has joined three different bands alongside starting his own student night in Sheffield.
Owen Miles, who started his own DJ night while studying Professional Music Business, said: “The connections to the music industry and the people, I’ve been shell shocked at least a hundred times. It’s a great environment.”
Lily Hill, studying song writing, described the environment as very community focused: “I think the best part about WaterBear is that it is so driven by community. Everyone helps everyone out, and the feeling you get when you walk through the doors is one of consistent support.”
It’s a sentiment echoed by Cameron Scott; guitarist of the band H-Sharp and student, who added: “Since starting WaterBear I have had lots of opportunities, including gig performances, studio time and practice sessions alongside masterclasses about the music industry… It is a great feeling being surrounded by a really tight-knit musical community every single day. You feed off each other, inspire each other to get better, surrounded by all these people that are doing the same things”.
The college expects its intake to double next year. You can find out more info and course details by heading to the Water Bear website.
