music career

YOUR
MUSIC
CAREER
STARTS
HERE
BRIGHTON
BRISTOL
DUBLIN
THE UK & IRELAND’S
MOST CONNECTED
MUSIC COLLEGE
PROSPECTUS
2015/16
LONDON
MANCHESTER
BIMM.IE
DEAR STUDENT,
YOUR MUSIC CAREER
STARTS HERE.
At BIMM we understand that choosing the
right place to study and nurture your talent
is one of the most important decisions you’ll
ever make. Since BIMM was established 14
years ago with our first institute in Brighton,
our aim has been to help every aspiring
musician and music industry professional to
achieve their personal goals and be able to
embark on a sustainable career in the music
industry. We now have Colleges in five cities
where music matters most – Dublin, London,
Brighton, Bristol and Manchester – and are
proud to be the largest and leading provider
of contemporary music education in Europe.
venues, access to industry A&R panels,
connectivity with the thriving festival circuit,
and the production of the annual BIMM
albums. Perhaps our greatest strength is that
BIMM students benefit from being connected
to the largest alumni network in the industry
with over 1,500 members who provide
inspiration, mentorship and connectivity to
the industry for our students. BIMM alumni
hold BRIT, Ivor Novello and MOBO awards,
have scored countless UK Top 10 albums and
more than 30 UK Top 40 singles, and include
The Kooks, Tom Odell, George Ezra and
James Bay.
In this prospectus we’ve included full
details of our real-world Further and Higher
Education music and music industry courses,
an introduction to our fantastic line-up of
industry specialist tutors, and a guide to
the city of Dublin and its vibrant music and
creative scene. You’ll also find full details on
student support, how to apply to BIMM, and
our 2015/16 course fees.
We celebrate the fact that our approach
is working because the facts speak for
themselves – nearly 80% of our graduates
make a living solely from the music industry.
BIMM Dublin Higher Education courses are
validated by Dublin Institute of Technology
(DIT) and the University of West London
(UWL) – both ranked as leading educational
bodies in Europe. BIMM provides state-ofthe-art professional facilities, with equipment
and software provided by the world’s leading
musical instrument manufacturers who
actively support and endorse us.
BIMM is proud to be the best connected.
We now have over 4,500 students, all of
whom have access to a range of amazing
opportunities as part of our aligned network
of campuses. We offer unrivalled access to
the $50bn global music industry via regular
collaborative experiences, including weekly
Masterclasses with internationally renowned
guest artists, gigs at small and large scale
If you’d like a taste of what life at BIMM is
really like, why not attend one of the many
Open Days we run throughout the year. For
more information, please see page 48 of this
Prospectus, call 01 5133 666 or visit
www.bimm.ie – you can book your place
online.
So choose to connect with us – and we’ll
connect you to a life in music. We look
forward to welcoming you in the 2015/16
academic year.
Kind regards,
DARA KILKENNY
PRINCIPAL – BIMM DUBLIN /
BIMM MANCHESTER
ALAN CULLIVAN
COLLEGE MANAGER
– BIMM DUBLIN
WELCOME 03
CONTENTS
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ABOUT BIMM
DUBLIN – THE PLACE TO STUDY
LIFE AT BIMM
MASTERCLASSES
CAREERS IN THE MUSIC INDUSTRY
GET CONNECTED
STUDENT SUCCESS
TUTORS
COURSES
STUDENT SUPPORT
HOW TO APPLY
INTERNATIONAL
FEES, GRANTS & SCHOLARSHIPS
EDUCATION PARTNERS
ACCOMMODATION
OPEN DAYS
COLLEGE TOURS
CONTACT INFORMATION
“ REALLY IMPRESSED WITH
WHAT YOU HAVE HERE,
YOU’RE VERY LUCKY.”
ROGER DALTREY CBE
PATRON - BIMM GROUP
04 CONTENTS
ABOUT
AT BIMM YOU’LL BE PART OF A CREATIVE COMMUNITY THAT GIVES YOU THE
BEST OPPORTUNITY TO GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR TALENT AND WORK IN
ONE OF THE UK AND IRELAND’S BIGGEST AND MOST CELEBRATED INDUSTRIES.
The global music industry is worth around
$50bn annually and this figure continues to
grow each year, providing a multitude
of employment opportunities in the UK,
Ireland and abroad. For over ten years,
BIMM has been producing some of the
industry’s brightest talents, from bestselling artists such as The Kooks, Tom Odell,
Radiohead and George Ezra to leading
songwriters, musicians, agents, producers,
journalists, business professionals and
major-label managers.
Location is vital to breaking into the music
industry, so we’ve based our colleges
in Dublin, London, Brighton, Bristol and
Manchester – the five European cities where
music matters most. These locations have
thriving music scenes that allow you to
take advantage of our unrivalled industry
connections and the many collaborative
opportunities that arise. In this creative
environment you can network and develop
lifelong contacts while performing and
staging gigs at local venues and festivals,
as well as working with record labels, music
producers and rehearsal studios to get an
authentic taste of what life in the music
industry is really like.
All of our colleges offer fully accredited
courses and are QQI/QAA-assured. Our
tutors are experts in their field and still tour,
play and produce music with some of the
world’s biggest recording artists, such as
Radiohead, Paul Weller, Beyonce, Madonna
and Sir Paul McCartney.
WHY DUBLIN?
Dublin has a long history of embracing
creativity and celebrating diversity.
With a passion for live music, a large
student population, one of Europe’s
most vibrant arts scenes and the finest
bars and shops Ireland has to offer, it’s
the perfect place to immerse yourself.
The footpaths are lined with livemusic venues, from legendary pubs
to landmark arenas, while the city
also hosts several international music
festivals, including Longitude and
Forbidden Fruit.
ABOUT BIMM 05
MUSIC IS AT DUBLIN’S VERY CORE.
EVERY NIGHT OF THE WEEK
YOU’LL HEAR THE SOUND OF LIVE
MUSIC PULSING ACROSS THE CITY,
WHETHER IT’S INTERNATIONAL
ACTS AT THE 3 ARENA AND THE
ACADEMY OR LOCAL BANDS,
DJS AND ARTISTS – SOME OF
THEM FROM BIMM – ON STAGE AT
ONE OF DUBLIN’S HUNDREDS OF
LEGENDARY VENUES, BARS, PUBS
AND CLUBS.
Dublin is music. It’s a vital, living part of the
city’s identity with music venues on every
corner, from iconic arenas to atmospheric
bars. A stroll around Dublin is like a musical
history tour. From the musical hub of Dame
Street to The Workman’s Club and The
Grand Social – venues run by music fans
for music fans – the soundtrack to Dublin
is as varied as it comes: trad to electropop, folk to rock, pop to rockabilly, all
blaring out from pubs and bars. Just follow
your ears.
DUBLIN
THE
PLACE
TO STUDY
06 DUBLIN
Throughout the year the city is buzzing
with world-renowned festivals, including
Longitude, Hard Working Class Heroes,
The Big Bang Festival of Rhythm, and
Forbidden Fruit, bringing together
musicians and making it a magnet for
creative people from all over the world.
Outside of the thriving music scene, you’ll
never be short of things to do in Dublin.
Explore the city’s teeming nightlife, relax in
the cosy cafes, bars, parks and restaurants,
and immerse yourself in the country’s
history and culture in the city’s many
museums and galleries.
WHELAN’S
From Jeff Buckley to Arctic Monkeys, for
decades the world’s biggest acts have been
playing at this eclectic, legendary pub in
the heart of the city. It’s a Dublin institution,
summing up the city’s attitude to music:
they love it live and they love it diverse, with
separate gigs often happening on different
floors at the same time. BIMM Dublin gigs are
regularly held at Whelan’s and many BIMM
Dublin students perform here with their
own bands.
DUBLIN 07
LIFE
AT
BIMM
AT BIMM WE WANT TO HELP YOU BROADEN
AND DEVELOP YOUR SKILLS AS A MUSICIAN
OR MUSIC INDUSTRY PROFESSIONAL.
“PROVIDING YOU
WITH OPPORTUNITIES TO
ACHIEVE YOUR GOALS.”
WHETHER IT’S LEARNING INSIDE THE
CLASSROOM, IN A STUDIO, ON STAGE
OR AT A FESTIVAL, WE’LL PROVIDE YOU
WITH ALL THE OPPORTUNITIES YOU NEED
TO ACHIEVE YOUR GOALS THROUGH
CONNECTING AND INTERACTING
WITH THE INDUSTRY IN REAL-WORLD
SCENARIOS.
GUESTS AND MASTERCLASSES
We believe that to be the best it helps to
connect with the best, so we encourage
you to meet and network with leading
music industry professionals. We use our
connections to attract A-list musicians,
songwriters, label executives, A&R reps and
booking agents to share their knowledge
with you in regular Masterclasses. Previous
guests have included: Danny O’Donoghue
(The Script), KT Tunstall, Chuck D (Public
Enemy), Imelda May, Graham Coxon (Blur),
Keane, Stephen Street (Producer: Blur,
The Smiths), Michael Eavis (Glastonbury),
Lawson, Ben Thompson (Two Door Cinema
Club) and BIMM patron Roger Daltrey CBE
(The Who).
THE BIMM ALBUM
Every year we release an album featuring
a host of BIMM musicians. BIMM bands and
artists submit demos for consideration,
and the chosen acts get to record at a
professional studio with engineers and
producers. The album is released to the
public and given to industry professionals to
showcase the very best of BIMM talent.
08 LIFE AT BIMM
GIGS
Life at BIMM is not all about coursework,
revision and exams – live music is a huge part
of what we’re all about. Throughout your time
at BIMM, you’ll be heavily involved in Dublin’s
live scene, whether it’s gigging, rehearsing or
promoting. We also run and put on our own
end-of-term gigs, showcasing our musicians,
bands and songwriters at a series of events
across the city.
“ I FELT I FINALLY FITTED
IN THERE. YOU COULD DO
YOUR OWN THING AND
THAT’S WHAT WE DID.”
LUKE PRITCHARD, THE KOOKS
BIMM GRADUATES
LIFE AT BIMM 09
MASTERCLASSES
“TO BE THE BEST IT HELPS
TO MEET THE BEST.”
GRAHAM COXON
BLUR
PREVIOUS BIMM SPECIAL GUESTS INCLUDE…
CHUCK D
LEMMY
PUBLIC ENEMY
PAUL WELLER
THE JAM
FRANK TURNER
SINGER-SONGWRITER
MOTÖRHEAD
MARKY RAMONE
RAMONES
MICHAEL EAVIS
GLASTONBURY
FESTIVAL
KT TUNSTALL
SINGERSONGWRITER
RUFUS
WAINWRIGHT
SINGER-SONGWRITER
10 MASTERCLASSES
MASTERCLASSES 11
CAREERS
IN THE MUSIC INDUSTRY
WE KNOW YOU WANT TO MAKE IT
IN THE MUSIC INDUSTRY. SO WE USE
OUR ENVIABLE CONNECTIONS IN
THE DOMESTIC AND INTERNATIONAL
MUSIC INDUSTRIES TO HELP MAKE
THAT HAPPEN.
At BIMM Dublin, you’ll be presented with
unique opportunities all with the aim of
securing a sustainable career in one of the
most dynamic and exciting vocations in
the world.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
The global music sector offers a richly varied
number of careers. In such a diverse industry
it helps to have skills across a wide range of
roles, and at BIMM we provide you with all the
tools you need to achieve this. As a result, our
students find work across the whole sector as
session musicians, songwriters, management,
agents, engineers, A&R executives and more.
LEARNING FROM THE BEST
As a student, you’ll be guided by world-class
tutors who are some of the most successful
people in the modern music business.
They’ve toured the world, scored multiplatinum hit records, and have collaborated
with some of the world’s best acts. What’s
more, they’re all still active in the industry,
giving you direct access to their knowledge,
experience and enviable networking links.
HOW WE HELP YOU ACHIEVE THIS
At BIMM we have individual tutorials
designed to help with your development
and to discuss the direction you’d like your
career to take. We also have advisors who
spend time with you on a one-to-one basis
to assist with your CV, put together career
action plans, and help you reach your goals.
“ IF YOU’RE SERIOUS
ABOUT A CAREER IN
THE MUSIC INDUSTRY
AND WANT A GREAT
EDUCATION IN HOW
THE INDUSTRY WORKS –
THIS IS THE REAL DEAL.”
ROB HARRIS, JAMIROQUAI
BPI
UNIVERSAL MUSIC
SONY MUSIC
WARNER MUSIC
PRS FOR MUSIC
THREE SIX ZERO
MUSIC WEEK
GET CONNECTED
BELIEVE DIGITAL
ARCTANGENT FESTIVAL
THE GREAT ESCAPE FESTIVAL
INTL LIVE MUSIC CONFERENCE
WHELAN’S ONES TO WATCH FESTIVAL
HARD WORKING CLASS HEROES FESTIVAL
SHAKEDOWN FESTIVAL
PLEDGEMUSIC
DUFF PRESS
SOME FRIENDLY PR
RAK STUDIOS
COMMUNION MUSIC
THE AGENCY
IMRO
KOBALT PUBLISHING
FIRST MUSIC CONTACT
AT BIMM WE’RE
PROUD OF OUR
HOT PRESS
CLOSE INDUSTRY
RAAP
CONTACTS AND
ENJOY SUPPORTING
2000TREES FESTIVAL
OUR STUDENTS AS
LOVE SUPREME FESTIVAL
THEY PROGRESS IN
THEIR CAREERS.
12 CAREERS
GET CONNECTED 13
STUDENT SUCCESS
BIMM GRADUATES PROVE THAT TALENT, HARD WORK AND CONNECTIONS ARE
AN IMPRESSIVE MIX, WITH NEARLY 80% OF OUR ALUMNI MAKING A LIVING OUT
OF MUSIC ALONE. HERE WE PROFILE SOME OF OUR SUCCESS STORIES –
WITH MANY MORE TO BE FOUND AT: WWW.BIMM.IE
BEN THOMPSON
TWO DOOR
CINEMA CLUB
TOM ODELL
BIMM Brighton Songwriting graduate Tom signed to
Columbia Records and progressed to the top of the music
industry in 2013. That year he was a nominee in the BBC
Sound of 2013 poll, he won the Critic’s Choice Award at The
BRITs, he played Glastonbury Festival and his debut album
‘Long Way Down’ went to No. 1. His rise has continued into
2014, with nominations for two BRIT Awards and a win at
the Ivor Novello Awards for ‘Songwriter of the Year’.
14 STUDENT SUCCESS
As live drummer for
Two Door Cinema Club,
BIMM graduate Ben has
toured the globe several
times, performed at a
multitude of domestic and
international festivals and
made numerous television
appearances. A musician
endorsed by Vic Firth and
Zildjian, Ben’s abilities
are well honed, and he
continues to be a pivotal
part of Two Door Cinema
Club’s success.
JENN HANEEF
YAMAHA
After graduating from BIMM Bristol, where
she was awarded her degree by Glastonbury
Festival founder Michael Eavis, Jenn secured
a career at Yamaha as a drum tutor, teaching
both groups and individual students. She
went on to launch the Waterloo Music School
in Bristol with fellow BIMM alumna Louisa
Baker, teaching drums, keyboards, vocals,
guitar and bass to a variety of ages across
the local community. Both graduates perform
in the all-female band The Baronesques.
THE
KOOKS
LUKE
SITAL-SINGH
Multi-million-selling
indiepoppers The Kooks began
as students at BIMM, forming
as a band in Brighton in 2002.
Their 2006 debut album ‘Inside
In/Inside Out’ is certified as
four-times platinum in the UK,
and its follow-up, 2008’s ‘Konk’,
went straight into the domestic
chart at No. 1, with album
number three, ‘Junk Of The
Heart’ going Top 10 in 2011. The
band is BRIT Award nominated
and won in the category of
‘Best UK & Ireland Act’ at the
MTV Europe Awards in 2006.
A young British talent with
Glastonbury sets and sessions
for BBC 6 Music and Radio 2
under his belt, BIMM Brighton
graduate Luke is an artist of
real promise. Supported by
DJs including Steve Lamacq,
Lauren Laverne and Dermot
O’Leary, his compelling,
emotionally captivating
material has been compared
to Jeff Buckley and Bon Iver.
Luke’s debut album has been
released by Parlophone,
with tours across the UK and
Europe to follow.
BETH ROWLEY
Having provided backing
vocals for the likes of Ronan
Keating and Enrique Iglesias
during her time at BIMM, after
graduation, Beth signed to
major label Universal, who
released her 2008 debut
album ‘Little Dreamer’. The
record reached No. 6 in the UK
and led to Beth collaborating
with Crowded House and the
legendary Burt Bacharach.
She’s performed on ‘Top Of
The Pops’ and ‘This Morning’,
and has released a further
EP of songs, continuing to
perform regularly at events all
over the country.
STUDENT SUCCESS 15
CHARLIE MCLEAN
BIFFCO SONGWRITING
Biffco is the songwriting team behind hits
for Ellie Goulding, Kylie Minogue, The Spice
Girls, Little Mix and many more – and BIMM
graduate Charlie is an essential part of its
creative processes, working as assistant
producer alongside the company’s founder,
Richard ‘Biff’ Stannard. With considerable
writing and backing vocalist experience
behind her, Charlie is rapidly developing her
talents as an engineer, working with the likes
of One Direction and Susan Boyle.
ADAM PITTS
LAWSON
BIMM graduate Adam is the drummer for
Lawson, a major-label-signed foursome
with no fewer than six Top 20 singles to
their name and success throughout the
world. Lawson have twice supported pop
heavyweights The Wanted, and have also
toured alongside Will Young and Westlife.
The band’s 2012 debut album, ‘Chapman
Square’, was a Top 5 hit on its initial release,
and they have had a No. 3 hit with ‘Juliet’
both in the UK and abroad.
GEORGE EZRA
George joined BIMM Bristol in 2011 to study
Songwriting – and was signed to Columbia
Records less than a year later. 2014 has
been an amazing year for George, and has
seen him place fifth in the BBC Sound of
2014 poll, tour the UK and Europe, play
an incredible set on the John Peel stage
at Glastonbury, reach No. 4 with his debut
single ‘Budapest’, and hit No. 1 with his
debut album ‘Wanted On Voyage’.
16 STUDENT SUCCESS
PHILIP SELWAY
RADIOHEAD
Philip is a former student who has well and
truly taken the music world by storm as
drummer for the band Radiohead – to date
they’ve sold in excess of 40 million albums
worldwide. Radiohead’s 1997 album ‘OK
Computer’ was voted the best album of the
past 25 years by readers of Q magazine, and
in 2008 Philip was named the 26th greatest
drummer of all time by Gigwise.
NATASHA BENT
JORDAN
WHITMORE
KATE WALSH
SONGWRITER
Having completed a BA
(Hons) in Professional
Musicianship at BIMM
in 2010, Jordan became
a member of the
Atlantic Records A&R
department. The label
is home to high-profile
acts such as Ed Sheeran,
Bruno Mars, Jason Mraz,
Missy Elliott and Plan B.
Jordan also works for
Brighton-based music
supervision company The
Sound Works.
After graduating from the
Songwriting course at BIMM
Brighton, Kate went on to
become the first unsigned
act to top the iTunes chart
with her second album
‘Tim’s House’, knocking
Take That from the top slot
and securing distribution
with Mercury Records. Kate
continues to write and
record music on her own
label Blueberry Pie, and
is currently a Songwriting
tutor at BIMM Brighton.
A graduate of BIMM
Brighton, Natasha
is now a highly
successful booking
agent. She is vice
president at The
Agency Group in
London, personally
representing artists
including Foals, The
Knife, CHVRCHES
and Foster The
People, while The
Agency Group’s
wider roster features
acts including 50
Cent, Bring Me The
Horizon, Paramore
and A$AP Rocky.
For more success stories,
visit www.bimm.ie
STUDENT SUCCESS 17
MEET YOUR TUTORS
“IRELAND’S BEST CONNECTED.”
OUR BIMM DUBLIN TUTORS ARE SOME OF THE MOST SUCCESSFUL
PEOPLE IN THE MODERN MUSIC BUSINESS.
They really have done it all – from
performing with Red Hot Chili Peppers
and playing guitar on The Commitments
soundtrack, to vocal coaching Bono and
being frontman for the indie band JJ72. And
they all remain active in the industry, meaning
you’ll have direct access to their in-demand
insider knowledge!
JOHNNY BOYLE
HEAD OF DRUMS
Johnny has been playing drums since
the age of 12 and joined his first band
when he was just 14. Since then, he’s
played, recorded and toured with
many notable artists, including Andy
White, The Frames, Marianne Faithful,
Pugwash, LiR, The Duckworth Lewis
Method, Mundy, Damien Rice, Neil
Hannon, Finbar Furey and Don Baker.
Over the course of his career, Johnny
has made television appearances with
Elton John, Ronan Keating, Westlife,
Atomic Kitten, Sophie Ellis Bextor and
Shayne Ward. He’s also played on many
movie soundtracks, including those for
‘I Went Down’ and ‘Once’.
18 TUTORS
JIMMY SMYTH HEAD OF GUITAR
Jimmy has been playing guitar since he was seven
years old. His growing interest in rock and blues
led him to form his own band at school in his early
teens. Some years later, Jimmy was asked to join
Thin Lizzy as a replacement for guitarist Brian
Robertson, but declined. He played with his band,
The Bogey Boys, from 1979 to 1983, recording
several singles and two albums together. Jimmy
then turned his hand to production, making
albums for The Spirit of Eden, Bonnie Tyler, Toni
Childs, Rob Strong, Don Baker and Frances Black.
He’s composed music for the movies ‘When the
Sky Falls’ (2000) and ‘Silent Grace’ (2002), and for
‘The Fellowship of The Ring’ video game (2003).
He’s also recorded and played with Roger Daltrey,
Curtis Stigers, Chaka Khan, Lisa Stansfield, Van
Morrison and Reba McEntire, and is still very much
in demand for touring and recording.
OLLIE COLE
HEAD OF LIVE
PERFORMANCE
Ollie is a self-taught multi-instrumentalist
and songwriter who began playing
and writing at the age of six. Having
had some success with his first band
Swampshack, he formed the three-piece
rock band, Turn. Ollie was Turn’s singer,
songwriter and main guitarist, and they
soon signed to Infectious Records in
London. They released three Irish Top
10 albums, played sell-out gigs at Vicar
Street and Oxegen festival, and were
nominated for Ireland’s coveted ‘Choice
Music Award’ in 2005. Ollie left the band
in 2006 to work on his solo album, which
was given 5 stars by The Irish Times. He
continues to progress his career as both
a songwriter and solo artist.
TUTORS 19
COLM QUEARNEY
HEAD OF SONGWRITING
Colm is the owner of The Qube Analogue and Digital
Recording Studio in North Strand, Dublin, where he’s
been recording and producing bands since 2004.
As a session guitarist he’s performed with Cathy
Davey, Damien Dempsey, Mundy and Mark Geary, and
has played guitar and co-written songs with Jerry
Fish, The Pale and Bronagh Gallagher. To top off his
prolific musical endeavours, Colm is also a solo artist
performing under the name of Q, with three albums
released under this guise to date.
MARK GREANEY HEAD OF VOCALS
Mark formed JJ72 in 1996 and was lead singer, songwriter,
guitarist and manager. Signed to Sony Records while still at
school, their first album went Top 20 in the UK and Top 10 in
Ireland, and achieved four Top 40 UK hit singles. JJ72’s second
album recorded with Flood (Depeche Mode, U2, Smashing
Pumpkins, PJ Harvey) also went Top 20 in the UK and Top 10
in Ireland, scoring two Top 40 UK singles. They also played all
the major festivals and toured with U2, Coldplay and Muse.
Since JJ72, Mark has been in Concerto for Constantine and
has toured with Smashing Pumpkins and Snow Patrol.
CORMAC CURRAN
HEAD OF MUSIC THEORY
Cormac composed and arranged the string and
brass scores for the No. 1 platinum-selling album
‘Becoming a Jackal’ for the band Villagers, which in
2010 was nominated for the Mercury Music Prize, a
Choice Music Award and a Mojo Award. The single
‘Becoming a Jackal’ won the ‘Best Song Musically
and Lyrically’ at the Ivor Novello Awards in 2011.
Cormac has spent his last few years touring with
Villagers and playing support to bands and artists
such as Elbow, Neil Young, Grizzly Bear, Midlake,
John Grant, The National, and many more.
20 TUTORS
PAUL MOORE
HEAD OF BASS
Paul has been playing electric bass since
the age of 14 and upright bass from 16.
He’s recorded with Mary Coughlan, Declan
O’Rourke, Juliet Turner, Katie Melua, The
Chieftains, Colm Wilkinson, Donal Lunny,
Ronnie Drew and Mark Knopfler, and worked
exclusively with Riverdance for four years
between 1998 and 2001, holding the role of
Musical Director. Paul has also performed live
with Andrew Strong, Frances Black, Jimmy
MacCarthy, Paul Brady, Alex Chilton, Rita
Coolidge, Moving Hearts, Solomon Burke
and Van Morrison. He’s recorded movie
soundtracks and has performed in numerous
musicals. Paul has broad teaching experience,
having taught Bass and Musicianship with
The Making Music Workshop based in the
North of Ireland, and has performed Bass
Masterclasses on many occasions.
MICHAEL ROE
HEAD OF MUSIC
BUSINESS
A graduate of the National
University of Ireland Maynooth,
Michael started as a musician
playing drums in various bands,
including Adebisi Shank. He began
working in the industry as an agent,
booking tours for artists in Europe
and Asia. He founded the Irish
independent label Richter Collective,
building it into an internationally
respected company with worldwide
distribution. In 2011, Michael set
up MKR Management, which offers
consultancy, artist management and
label services to US independent
labels wishing to set up in Europe.
He also manages Dublin based band
All Tvvins, among others.
For a full list of tutors, visit www.bimm.ie
TUTORS 21
DUBLIN
COURSES
22 TUTORS
24
COMMERCIAL MODERN MUSIC BA (HONS)
(GUITAR, BASS, DRUMS AND VOCALS)
28
COMMERCIAL MODERN MUSIC BA (HONS)
(SONGWRITING)
32
MUSIC PRODUCTION BA (HONS)
36
PROFESSIONAL MUSICIANSHIP CPD DIPLOMA
(GUITAR, BASS, DRUMS, VOCALS AND SONGWRITING)
38
SUMMER SCHOOLS
(PERFORMANCE AND MUSIC PRODUCTION)
COURSES CONTENTS 23
BA (HONS)
COMMERCIAL
MODERN MUSIC
GUITAR, BASS, DRUMS AND VOCALS
CAO CODE: DT506
4 YEARS FULL-TIME
“TURN YOUR PASSION
FOR MUSIC INTO A CAREER.”
GUITAR, BASS, DRUMS AND VOCALS
CAO CODE: DT506
If you’re a musician who wants to gain a
degree-level qualification, but at the same
time fulfil your creative and commercial
potential, then the BA (Hons) in Commercial
Modern Music is the right choice to help turn
your passion for music into a career.
Life at BIMM will stretch you as a musician and
performer, but will inspire you as a fan too, as
you attend unique Masterclasses by some of
the best players and musicians in the world.
You’ll also have the opportunity to audition for
the BIMM album and termly BIMM gigs.
This four-year programme aims to develop
your performance skills at the same time as
progressing your career goals, using a deadlinedriven project management approach.
Your course will culminate in a Professional
Project designed to teach academic research
skills, and give you the opportunity to develop
a live industry project of your choice, giving
you a head start into the workplace when
you graduate.
At BIMM Dublin, we understand that live
performance is the key to you becoming a
great musician, so you’ll spend a lot of time on
stage to help you develop and find your niche
as a performer.
So to make your way as a musician, connect
with us, and we’ll connect you to a life in music.
PROGRESSION
You’ll also further hone your skills by receiving
tuition in techniques, music theory and styles
across a wide range of genres from pop and
punk to folk and funk.
The degree is both academically and musically
challenging, providing the perfect balance
between practical and technical skills, and
theory and analysis.
Graduates can progress directly to
employment in the music industry in roles
such as solo performer, band member, session
musician, backing vocalist or songwriter, or
can continue their study with a Postgraduate
Certificate in Further and Higher Education
at BIMM Brighton or a MMus Popular Music
Performance at BIMM London.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
You’ll be part of a creative community of
gifted writers, performers and music industry
professionals who you can collaborate and
network with to help bring your talent to life.
Through a range of optional modules, including
Performance in Context, Session Skills,
Commercial Songwriting, Music Business
Studies, and Music Teaching Practice, you can
tailor the degree to fit your own personal goals.
The minimum academic requirements are
two Higher Level C3s and four Ordinary Level
D3s at Leaving Cert level or equivalent. All
applicants must attend an audition at which
they can earn up to 600 additional points
to add to their Leaving Cert points. Five
Distinctions at FETAC Level 5 will also be
deemed to comply with the minimum entry
requirements.
Validated by Dublin Institute of Technology.
24 COMMERCIAL MODERN MUSIC BA (HONS)
COMMERCIAL MODERN MUSIC BA (HONS) 25
BA (Hons) Commercial Modern Music
COURSE MODULES
YEAR 1
YEAR 2
•
•
•
•
•
Styles 1
Techniques 1
M
usic Business and Study Skills
Artist Development and Entrepreneurship
P
re-Production and Live Performance
Workshop 1
• Music Theory and Notation
•
•
•
•
•
YEAR 3
YEAR 4
All students take mandatory and optional
modules in their third year of study. These
modules are an example of some of the
units that can be studied during Year 3 of
the degree programme. All modules for
the academic year beginning in September
will be confirmed in writing prior to the
commencement of the programme.
All students take the mandatory and
optional modules in their fourth year of
study. These modules are an example
of some of the units students could be
studying during Year 4 of the degree
programme. All modules for the
academic year beginning in September
will be confirmed in writing prior to
commencement of the programme.
•
•
•
•
Research Methods
Cultural Perspectives
Professional Musicianship
Theory and Transcription
Styles 2
Techniques 2
Applied Music Business and Study Skills
Music in Context
Pre-Production and Live Performance
Workshop 2
• Applied Music Theory and Transcription
• Professional Project
• Professional Development
• Analytical Perspectives
Students will select one option from the
following optional modules:
Students will select one option from the
following optional modules:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
P
erformance in Context
Commercial Band Management
Studio Recording
The Songwriter/Producer
Music Publishing
Please note: module names and structure
may be subject to change.
26 COMMERCIAL MODERN MUSIC BA (HONS)
For entry to Year 2, students must complete Year 1 with
120 credits achieved. External applications to Year 2 are
accepted – for details, please contact info@bimm.co.uk
Solo Performance
Ensemble Performance
Commercial Songwriting
Music Business Studies
Music Teaching Practice
For module descriptions and more
information, visit www.bimm.ie
COMMERCIAL MODERN MUSIC BA (HONS) 27
BA (HONS)
COMMERCIAL MODERN MUSIC:
SONGWRITING
If you’re a songwriter who wants to gain a
degree-level qualification, but at the same time
fulfill your creative and commercial potential,
then the BA (Hons) in Commercial Modern
Music is the right choice to help turn your
passion for music into a career.
At BIMM Dublin, our Songwriting degree is one
of a kind. We have a strong focus on writing
technique, analysis and personal stylistic
development, and you’ll be encouraged from
day one to explore your creativity as an artist,
where our expert tutors will guide you to
deliver career-making tunes.
Our four-year programme aims to develop
your songwriting skills at the same time
as progressing your career goals, using a
deadline-driven project management approach.
The degree is both academically and musically
challenging, providing the perfect balance
between practical and technical skills, and
theory and analysis.
To succeed as a great songwriter, a detailed
understanding of the music business is
essential. We’ll share our knowledge of music
publishing, contracts and recording technology,
and will deliver our teaching in line with the
latest trends and directions in the evolving
music industry.
You’ll be part of a creative community of
gifted writers, performers and music industry
professionals who you can collaborate and
network with to help bring your talent to life.
Through a range of optional modules, including
The Songwriter/Producer, Commercial
Songwriting, Music Business Studies and Music
COURSE MODULES
4 YEARS FULL-TIME
CAO CODE: DT506
Teaching Practice, you can tailor the degree to
fit your own personal goals.
You’ll get to attend unique and inspiring
Masterclasses by some of the best musicians in
the world, which will stretch you as a songwriter.
You’ll also have the opportunity to audition for
the BIMM Album and termly BIMM gigs.
Your course will culminate in a Professional
Project designed to teach academic research
skills, and give you the opportunity to develop
a live industry project of your choice, giving
you a head start into the workplace when
you graduate.
So to make your way as a songwriter, connect
with us, and we’ll connect you to a life in music.
PROGRESSION
Graduates can progress directly to employment
in the music industry in roles such as solo
performer, band member, session musician,
backing vocalist or songwriter, or can continue
their study with a Postgraduate Certificate in
Further and Higher Education at BIMM Brighton
or a MMus Popular Music Performance at
BIMM London.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
The minimum academic requirements are two
Higher Level C3s and four Ordinary Level D3s at
Leaving Cert level or equivalent. All applicants
must attend an audition at which they can earn
up to 600 additional points to add to their
Leaving Cert points. Five Distinctions at FETAC
Level 5 will also be deemed to comply with the
minimum entry requirements.
YEAR 1
YEAR 2
•SW Techniques 1
•Styles Analysis
•Live Arrangement Workshop
•Music Theory and Notation
•Music Business & Study Skills
•Artist Development & Entreupeneurship
•Applied Music Theory & Transcription (SW)
•SW Techniques 2
•Arrangement Analysis
•Live Performance Workshop
•Applied Music Business & Study Skills
•Music in Context
YEAR 3
YEAR 4
All students take mandatory and optional
modules in their third year of study. These
modules are an example of some of the
units that can be studied during Year 3 of
the degree programme. All modules for
the academic year beginning in September
will be confirmed in writing prior to the
commencement of the programme.
All students take mandatory and optional
modules in their fourth year of study.
These modules are an example of some
of the units students could be studying
during Year 4 of the degree programme. All
modules for the academic year beginning in
September will be confirmed in writing prior
to commencement of the programme.
•Cultural Perspectives
•Theory and Transcription
•SW/Producer
•Music Publishing
•Research Methods
•Professional Project
•Professional Development
•Analytical Perspectives
•Commercial Songwriting
Students will select one option from the
following optional modules:
•Studio Recording
•Performance in Context
•Commercial Band Management
•Studio Musicianship
Students will select one option from the
following optional modules:
•Ensemble Performance
•Solo Performance
•Music Business Studies
•Music Teaching Practice
For module descriptions and more information, visit www.bimm.ie
Validatd by Dublin Institute of Technology.
28 COMMERCIAL MODERN MUSIC: SONGWRITING BA (HONS)
Please note: module names and structure may be subject to change.
COMMERCIAL MODERN MUSIC: SONGWRITING BA (HONS) 29
“ SUCCESS DOESN’T
ALWAYS COME EASILY.
IT TAKES THE RIGHT
COMBINATION OF
TALENT, HARD WORK
AND VALUABLE
CONNECTIONS TO
MAKE YOUR WAY IN
THE MUSIC INDUSTRY.”
30 COMMERCIAL MODERN MUSIC: SONGWRITING BA (HONS)
COMMERCIAL MODERN MUSIC: SONGWRITING BA (HONS) 31
3 YEARS FULL-TIME
BA (HONS)
MUSIC
PRODUCTION
APPLY DIRECT TO BIMM DUBLIN
THE WAY IN WHICH MUSIC IS RECORDED, MIXED AND MASTERED IS AS
INTEGRAL TO THE CREATIVE PROCESS AS COMPOSITION AND PERFORMANCE.
THE BEST PRODUCERS CAN ADD AN ELUSIVE MAGIC TO A RECORDING THAT’S
OFTEN THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE SUCCESS AND FAILURE OF A PROJECT.
The BA (Hons) Music Production degree
at BIMM Dublin is a specialist programme
designed for those wishing to pursue a
career in a range of music industry roles,
such as producer, sound engineer or
creative artist.
The aim of the course is to nurture your
creative flair while you develop your skills
as a music producer across a wide range
of contexts, including traditional studio
and live recording, songwriting, live sound
and music for moving image. You’ll study
the context of contemporary music and
the industry that supports it, as well as
learning personal, project management and
business skills.
Networking and collaboration are central
to the degree, and you’ll be encouraged to
create music projects with your peers on the
BA (Hons) in Commercial Modern
Music programme.
You’ll undertake hands-on learning in our
high-tech production facilities and will have
direct access to cutting-edge equipment and
software, where you’ll be directed in its use
by professional industry tutors who really
know the ins and outs of the kit.
So to make your way in music production,
connect with us, and we’ll connect you to
a life in music.
PROGRESSION
Graduates can progress directly to
employment in the music industry in roles
such as producer, DJ, sound engineer, film
and television composer and computer music
designer, or they can continue their study with
a BIMM Postgraduate Certificate in Further
and Higher Education or a Masters Degree.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
A minimum of six subjects at Leaving Cert
level, including 2 Higher Level C3s, and 4
Ordinary Level D3s, to include Maths and
English or Irish. Applicants must also attend
an interview at which they will be required
to present a portfolio of work.
Validated by the University of West London.
32 MUSIC PRODUCTION BA (HONS)
“ MY TIME AT BIMM WAS
PRICELESS, LEARNING
FROM PROFESSIONAL
SONGWRITERS WHO
KNOW WHAT THEY’RE
TALKING ABOUT, AND
BOUNCING IDEAS OFF
THE OTHER STUDENTS
GAVE ME VALUABLE
EXPERIENCE THAT
I’LL NEVER BE ABLE
TO RE-CREATE. BIMM
TELLS YOU HOW THE
INDUSTRY REALLY IS
AND PREPARES YOU
FOR A REAL FUTURE
DOING SOMETHING
YOU LOVE!”
KATE WALSH,
BIMM GRADUATE
MUSIC PRODUCTION BA (HONS) 33
BA (Hons) Music Production
COURSE MODULES
YEAR 1
YEAR 2
YEAR 3
In Year 1, students address
the essential production
skills that will underpin not
only the rest of their studies,
but also their future career.
This includes working with
a wide range of analogue
recording techniques and
equipment, digital mixing,
audio production and
sequencing platforms,
as well as developing an
understanding of music
theory, songwriting and the
music business. Students
take six modules.
Year 2 requires students
to apply their skills to
increasingly ‘real-world’
scenarios involving
arranging, advanced
sequencing and remixing in
contemporary dance styles,
while studying the cultural
heritage of popular music.
Students also have the
chance to select optional
modules that allow them
to specialise in studio
management, live sound
and songwriting. Students
take six modules. There are
five mandatory modules and
students select one out of
three optional modules.
• Mixing and Audio Production 2
• Electronic Music
Production
• Arranging
• Music for the Moving
Image 1
• Music Industry Landscape
Year 3 affords students the
opportunity to participate
in the self-directed final
Production Project, while
choosing from a range of
optional modules including
Sound Design, Music
Pedagogy and Composition
for the Moving Image that
will best prepare them for a
career as a music industry
professional. Students take
five modules. There are two
mandatory modules and
students select three out of
six optional modules.
• Production Project
• Personal and Business
Development
• Recording Skills
• Software Environments
•M
ixing and Audio
Production 1
• Songwriting 1
• Musicianship
• Popular Music Culture
Students will select one
option from the following
optional modules:
Students will select one
option from the following
optional modules:
• Songwriting 3
• Sonic Manipulation
• Location Recording
and Post
• Music for the Moving
Image 2
• Music for Games
• Music Pedagogy in Practice
•L
ive Sound
• Songwriting 2
• Studio Management
All modules are mandatory and run throughout the academic year (30 weeks).
Please note: module names and structure may be subject to change.
34 MUSIC PRODUCTION BA (HONS)
MUSIC PRODUCTION BA (HONS) 35
“MIX WITH IRELAND’S
MOST TALENTED ARTISTS.”
GUITAR, BASS, DRUMS, VOCALS & SONGWRITING
If you’re a musician striving to reach your full
potential, but you can’t commit to a fulltime programme, then the CPD Diploma in
Professional Musicianship can help turn your
passion for music into a career.
This one-year practical and vocational
course is ideal if you want to further your
musical abilities on a part-time basis of 4.5
hours a week.
CPD DIPLOMA
PROFESSIONAL
MUSICIANSHIP
GUITAR, BASS, DRUMS, VOCALS
AND SONGWRITING
1 YEAR PART-TIME
At BIMM Dublin, we understand that live
performance is the key to you becoming a
great musician, so you’ll spend a lot of time
working on your techniques and styles to
help you develop and find your niche as a
performer. You’ll receive expert guidance from
your highly skilled BIMM tutors, all of whom
have had vast experience in the music industry,
and continue to be a part of the business today.
You’ll also study music theory and the
fundamental skills required to read and
perform music notation, such as sight reading.
During your time on the course you’ll connect
with likeminded fellow musicians for exciting
collaboration projects, and will get to plug
into unique networking opportunities, such
as Masterclasses with global music industry
professionals. You’ll also have the opportunity
to audition for the BIMM album and the termly
BIMM gigs. All in all, it’s a fantastic part-time
introduction to modern music and the industry
that surrounds it.
The course is fully validated by the Dublin
Institute of Technology, and successful
completion will gain you 30 ECTS credits.
It’s a great gateway to either taking your first
36 CPD DIPLOMA IN PROFESSIONAL MUSICIANSHIP
steps in a music industry career, or continuing
on with study in the form of the BA (Hons) in
Commercial Modern Music at BIMM.
So, what are you waiting for? To make your
way as a musician, connect with us, and we’ll
connect you to a life in music.
PROGRESSION
Graduates can progress directly to a career in
the music industry, or can continue their study
with a BA (Hons) in Commercial Modern Music
in Guitar, Bass, Drums, Vocals or Songwriting
at BIMM.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
The minimum entry requirement is successful
completion of one module at Level 5. This is
equivalent to one subject at Leaving Cert level.
Applicants must be 17 on 1st January in the
year of entry. All applicants must also attend an
audition to determine their eligibility for
the course.
Validated by Dublin Institute of Technology.
COURSE MODULES
PERFORMANCE
•Music Styles
•Instrumental
Techniques
•Theory and
Sight Reading
SONGWRITING
•Musicianship
•Song Stylistics
•Songwriting
Please note: module names and
structure may be subject to change.
CPD DIPLOMA IN PROFESSIONAL MUSICIANSHIP 37
SUMMER
SCHOOLS
AT BIMM DUBLIN WE RUN A RANGE OF SUMMER SCHOOLS FOR
MUSICIANS LOOKING TO DEVELOP THEIR TECHNIQUE
AND CONFIDENCE AS LIVE PERFORMERS.
IF YOU’RE A GUITARIST, BASS
PLAYER, DRUMMER, VOCALIST
OR ASPIRING PRODUCER, A BIMM
SUMMER SCHOOL IS A FANTASTIC
WAY TO SPEND YOUR BREAK.
Each Summer School is run over a five-day
week and consists of dedicated tuition
on your instrument, followed by a live
performance workshop every afternoon to
hone your performance skills.
The last day will involve forming bands
and rehearsing your favourite track of
the week in preparation for an afternoon
performance for your friends and family.
Additionally, we partner with some of
the best brands in the music business
to offer our students a chance to win
brilliant prizes.
BIMM Dublin Summer Schools are open
to all musicians aged 11+ who are not
absolute beginners on their instrument.
SIGN UP FOR SUMMER SCHOOL
If you’d like to get a taste of what life at BIMM Dublinn is like and join us
on one of our Summer Schools, please email us at: dublin@bimm.ie
or call 01 5133 666.
38 SUMMER SCHOOLS
STUDENT
SUPPORT
WE WANT TO MAKE YOUR TIME
AT BIMM DUBLIN AS EASY AND AS
COMFORTABLE AS POSSIBLE, SO WE
HAVE EDUCATIONAL AND PERSONAL
SUPPORT TEAMS DEDICATED TO
HELPING YOU GET THE MOST OUT
OF YOUR STUDY EXPERIENCE.
EDUCATION SUPPORT
We have a full-time team providing a range of
services for those who need support throughout
their studies. These include students with
specific learning difficulties, dyslexia, medical
conditions and other disabilities. Our Student
Support Team will work on a one-to-one basis
to help students learn skills to assist with
reading, writing, revision and approaches to
exams and coursework.
PERSONAL SUPPORT
Our Student Support Team also offers
counselling and stress management. This is
done on a one-to-one basis and is strictly
confidential. We understand that there are
certain stresses and anxieties that can affect
students, so our Support Team will help with
any problems you may have, from financial
worries to personal issues.
FIND OUT MORE
If you have any Student Support questions,
please call our team on 01 5133 666
or email dublin@bimm.ie
STUDENT SUPPORT 39
HOW TO APPLY
APPLYING TO BIMM IS SIMPLE. ALL YOU NEED TO DO IS FOLLOW THESE
STEPS. BUT REMEMBER, OUR COURSES ARE VERY POPULAR,
SO DON’T MISS THE DEADLINE!
BA (HONS) IN COMMERCIAL MODERN MUSIC
All Irish and EU applicants who wish to apply
for the BA (Hons) in Commercial Modern
Music must do so through the CAO
(www.cao.ie/apply.php), using the course
code DT506. Applications open on 5th
November and close at 5.15pm on 1st
February each year. As this is a restricted
course, late applications are not accepted.
Applicants must achieve a minimum of two
Higher Level C3s and four Ordinary Level
D3s in any subjects at Leaving Cert Level or
equivalent. A minimum of five Distinctions at
FETAC Level 5 will also be accepted.
All applicants must attend an audition to
determine their eligibility for the course. CAO
applicants can gain up to a maximum of 600
additional points at audition to add to their
Leaving Cert points. Mature students are welcomed and should
apply through the CAO as usual. Applicants
must be 23 years of age on 1st January in the
year of application in order to be classified
as such. The primary entry criteria for
consideration will be the audition.
Equivalent qualifications that will be
considered from EU applicants can be viewed
at: www2.cao.ie/downloads/documents/
Guidelines-EU-EFTA.pdf
40 HOW TO APPLY
BA (HONS) MUSIC PRODUCTION
Applications for the BA (Hons) Music
Production (Irish and EU) are made directly
to BIMM Dublin rather than via CAO.
Applicants should apply online at
www.bimm.ie via the ‘Apply Now’ form.
Applications open on 5th November each
year and close on 31st July at 5.30pm.
Applicants must achieve a minimum of two
Higher Level C3s and four Ordinary Level D3s
at Leaving Cert level, or equivalent, including
Maths and English or Irish. A minimum of five
Distinctions at FETAC Level 5 will also be
accepted.
All applicants will be invited to attend an
interview to determine their eligibility for the
course. At interview applicants must present
a portfolio of their work, including a written
statement outlining the presented work. The
statement should also demonstrate what the
student hopes to gain from the course and
their future music production aspirations.
Mature students are welcomed and must be
23 years of age on 1st January in the year of
application in order to be classified as such.
The primary entry criteria for consideration
will be the interview and portfolio.
If you have any queries about
applying for a BIMM Dublin course,
please contact our Admissions
Team on 01 5133 666 or by emailing
dublin@bimm.ie
CPD DIPLOMA
IN PROFESSIONAL MUSICIANSHIP
Applications for the CPD Diploma in
Professional Musicianship (DIT Course
Code: DT506C) are made directly to BIMM
Dublin, initially via the ‘Apply Now’ form
on the www.bimm.ie website. Applications
open on 5th November and close at 5pm on
31st July each year.
AUDITIONS
Applicants to both the BA (Hons) in
Commercial Modern Music and the CPD
Diploma in Professional Musicianship
will be required to complete an audition
in order to determine their eligibility
for their chosen course. Auditions for
BA applications will begin in March and
continue through to May.
Applicants must have successfully
completed one module at Level 5 (i.e., one
subject at Leaving Cert Level or one module
at FETAC Level 5, or equivalent) and must
be 17 years of age on 1st January in the year
of application.
Applicants for the CPD Diploma course will
be auditioned from March and throughout
the summer, but priority will be given
to applicants for the full-time course.
Audition requirements will be sent to each
applicant in advance, and applicants will be
sent their audition date and time at least
ten days in advance. Please note that all
correspondence is carried out by email.
All applicants must attend an audition to
determine their eligibility for the course.
Mature students are welcomed and must be
23 on 1st January in the year of application
in order to be classified as such. The
primary entry criteria for consideration will
be the audition.
If you have any queries about
applying for a BIMM Dublin course,
please contact our Admissions
Team on 01 5133 666 or by emailing
dublin@bimm.ie
HOW TO APPLY 41
INTERNATIONAL
From the 1950s right up to today, the UK and
Ireland have always been at the cutting edge
of contemporary music. Whether it’s inventing
new genres, responding to existing ones, or
fusing together different styles, the British and
Irish music scenes are cool, fresh and creative.
HOW TO APPLY
At BIMM, we’re in a unique position. Our job
is to help to build up the music network of our
students, but because of our location at the
heart of the world’s music industry, we’ll not
only connect you to the British and Irish music
industries, but the global one too.
Degree: Depending on the course, you either
apply via www.cao.ie or directly to BIMM Dublin
by filling out the ‘Apply Now’ form on the
website. Non-EU/EEA applicants must apply
directly to the International Office at DIT.
We’re very proud to welcome students from
all over the world. We currently have over
750 international learners from 60 different
countries who bring a welcome dimension to
the vibrant BIMM environment.
So if you’re an international student, why
not apply to study music in the home of
modern music?
Step 1: Making your application
Diploma: Apply directly to us – Non-EU/EEA
students will require a visa to work in Ireland to
study on this course.
Step 2: Booking your audition
A member of our Admissions Team will contact
you to discuss the details of your application,
as well as organising an audition date and time
with you.
Step 3: Remote assessments
For Performance courses, if you’re not able to
visit us for an assessment, we’ll send you demo
guidelines and an application form.
For the Music Production course, we’ll send
you details of a portfolio of evidence which
you’ll need to submit and a phone interview
can be booked.
Step 4: Return assessment requirements
Complete the audition requirements as detailed
in the guidelines we send you, and return them
to our Admissions Team.
FURTHER INFORMATION
For more information, please contact
dublin@bimm.ie, visit www.icosirl.ie
or call 01 5133 666.
42 INTERNATIONAL
Step 5: Assessment viewing
A tutor will view/listen to your audition
and may contact you to discuss your goals
for the course.
Step 6: Assessment de-brief
After your audition you’ll be de-briefed by a
member of the Admissions Team and advised
as to whether we can offer you a course.
Step 7: Contract confirmation
Diploma: You’ll be sent a contract and offer
letter via email which needs to be accepted
within seven days of the dated contract.
We also accept the following equivalent
English Language exams:
English Proficiency
Qualification
Minimum Achievement
Level Required*
TOEFL Paper
Based Test
550
TOEFL Computer
Based Test
213
BA (Hons) Music Production: You’ll be sent
a contract and letter of offer via email which
needs to be accepted within seven days of the
issue date.
TOEFL Internet
Based Test
90
IELTS*
6.0
Step 8: Information pack
Once a place is confirmed, you’ll receive an
information pack from the Admissions Team,
as well as details on becoming an International
Student.
GCE O Level English
Language
Grade C
TIE (only accepted
currently for DT558)
B2+ or higher
GCSE English
Grade C
Cambridge Certificate
of Proficincy in English
Grade C
Cambridge Certificate
in Advanced English
Grade A
Degree:
BA (Hons) in Commercial Modern Music: Your
place will be offered by the International Office
at DIT. Students normally have 7 days to accept
their offer.
Step 9: Arrival
Student Ambassadors will meet you on your
arrival in Ireland before you start your course.
Please contact dublin@bimm.ie to confirm
your arrival date and time.
ENGLISH QUALIFICATIONS
You’ll be required to show evidence of your
English language skills to one of the
following levels:
Diploma
Non-EU (Overseas) applicants: IELTS
6.0 English Language qualification
EU/EEA applicants: IELTS 6.0 English
Language qualification
Degree
EU/EEA & Non-EU (Overseas) applicants:
IELTS 6.0 English Language qualification.
Irish Leaving Certificate Ordinary Level D Grade
Vitnemal
4.0
ETAPP
Grade C1
ENTRY CRITERIA
You’ll also need to meet the academic entry
criteria for the course you wish to apply for.
You’ll need to provide us with evidence of your
qualifications when you make your application.
VISAS
Please contact us regarding specific visa
requirements.
INTERNATIONAL 43
FEES, GRANTS &
SCHOLARSHIPS
WE KNOW BEING A STUDENT CAN BE EXPENSIVE, SO WE MAKE SURE
ALL BIMM DUBLIN COURSES ARE GREAT VALUE FOR MONEY.
BA (HONS) IN COMMERCIAL MODERN MUSIC
This course is part of the Free Fees scheme,
so if you’re eligible, you’ll only have to pay
the student contribution fee which is
currently €3,000.
To check if you are, take a look at
www.studentfinance.ie. Detailed information
on fees is available from the Fees Office at DIT.
BA (HONS) MUSIC PRODUCTION
As a private fee-paying course, the fees for
2014/15 are €5,950, although this is subject to
change. Applicants who apply before 5.30pm
on 1st February will receive a reduction of 5%
on their fees for the first year. A deposit of
€950 will be required to secure a place and full
fees will be due by the end of August.
CPD DIPLOMA IN
PROFESSIONAL MUSICIANSHIP
For the academic year 2015/2016, fees for this
course are €1,950. However, this is subject
to change. They’re payable directly to BIMM
Dublin, with a deposit of €300 required to
accept and secure a place on the course.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
The fee structure for International students is
equivalent to Dublin Institute of Technology
International Fees. More information is available
from the DIT International Office.
GRANTS
A number of different grants are available
from SUSI (Student Universal Support Ireland).
These are awarded on an individual basis and
are means tested. They’re not usually available
to students undertaking part-time study
or private courses.
SCHOLARSHIPS
BIMM is dedicated to supporting and offering
opportunities to talented and passionate
aspiring musicians. Our aim is to do as much as
we can to help our students succeed.
Over the last year, we’re proud to have offered
over €250,000 in scholarships and bursaries
to those in need of financial help, allowing
them to make the most of their talents. Many
schemes are provided in conjunction with our
high-profile music industry partners, and show
our commitment to supporting talented music
students from
all backgrounds.
For 2014/ 15, we were delighted to announce
our latest BIMM Dublin initiative – the ‘Kevin
Shields Music Production Scholarship’, named
after the ‘My Bloody Valentine’ frontman,
which will cover three years of fees for
one lucky student on the BA (Hons) Music
Production course. To be in with a chance to
receive the scholarship you must first apply
for, and be accepted on, the BA (Hons) Music
Production course.
For more information
please email dublin@bimm.ie
or call 01 5133 666.
44 FEES, GRANTS & SCHOLARSHIPS
FEES, GRANTS & SCHOLARSHIPS 45
EDUCATION PARTNERS
BIMM IS PRIVILEGED TO WORK IN PARTNERSHIP WITH A HOST
OF HIGHLY RESPECTED EDUCATION PROVIDERS.
Our partners enable us to offer fully accredited
courses which deliver internationally
recognised academic qualifications to
successful graduates.
DUBLIN INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
DIT validates two of our BIMM Dublin courses.
Graduates will leave with a qualification
awarded by Dublin Institute of Technology.
UNIVERSITY OF WEST LONDON
BIMM Dublin Music Production graduates
will leave with an esteemed award from
the University of West London. BIMM London
graduates are awarded their undergraduate
and postgraduate degrees from the University
of West London’s prestigious London
College of Music.
UNIVERSITY OF SUSSEX
BIMM Brighton and BIMM Manchester
Higher Education graduates leave with
an award from one of the UK’s most
highly respected universities.
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY
BSU is our key education partner in the South
West of England validating all Higher Education
courses at BIMM Bristol.
46 EDUCATION PARTNERS
MIDDLESEX UNIVERSITY
Middlesex University validates our
successful specialist music teaching
postgraduate course.
CENTRAL COLLEGE SUSSEX
Our longstanding local Further
Education partner supports BIMM Brighton
in the accreditation of our
Level 2 and 3 programmes.
KNOWSLEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Knowsley College supports BIMM
Manchester in the accreditation of
our Level 3 programmes.
As an education provider, BIMM is dedicated
to maintaining the highest standards for
our students. In Ireland, our partner DIT is
responsible for assuring the quality of our
courses, ensuring that the curriculum content
and all teaching, learning and assessment
are at an appropriate level for the award.
We have this partnership to ensure that the
education our musicians receive is in line
with top international standards.
ACCOMMODATION
DUBLIN IS A THRIVING STUDENT CITY WITH PLENTY OF ACCOMMODATION
OPTIONS, SO FINDING SOMEWHERE TO LIVE WON’T BE DIFFICULT. IT’S VERY
EASY TO GET AROUND, SO WHEREVER YOU CHOOSE, DUBLIN’S GREAT
TRANSPORT SYSTEM WILL GET YOU TO BIMM AND YOU’LL NEVER BE MORE
THAN FIVE MINUTES FROM BARS, SHOPS AND PARKS.
Whether you choose to live in a bedsit, a
flat, a shared house or even on a part-board
basis with a family, there’s plenty to choose
from, although they do fill up fast.
There are no halls of residence at BIMM
Dublin, but our Student Support Team can
offer a lot of guidance when it comes to
finding suitable student digs.
AVAILABLE
ACCOMMODATION INCLUDES:
•
•
•
•
Dedicated student housing
Private landlords
Houseshare opportunities
Part-boards with families
Students on the BA (Hons) in Commercial Modern Music
and the CPD Diploma in Professional Musicianship are
registered DIT students and, as such, can use the range
of services provided for students there, including the
Accommodation Service. This service offers assistance
with finding accommodation and advice on all related
matters. DIT also has a number of halls of residence
throughout the city of Dublin, some of which are located
within walking distance of BIMM. For more information
please visit the BIMM Dublin website: www.bimm.ie
ACCOMMODATION 47
OPEN
DAYS &
COLLEGE
TOURS
“NEARLY 80% OF BIMM STUDENTS GO
ON TO WORK IN THE MUSIC INDUSTRY.”
OPEN DAYS
COLLEGE TOURS
We hold a number of Open Days throughout
November, December and January so you
can see for yourself what life as a BIMM
student is really like.
Throughout the year BIMM tours the UK
and Northern Ireland visiting schools
and colleges to talk to students about
careers in the music industry.
At an Open Day you can:
• Watch live performances from
BIMM bands
• See a presentation on our courses
and philosophy
• View our high-tech facilities
• Meet our world-class tutors
• Ask questions about life at BIMM and
industry opportunities
Our college tours are an interactive
experience featuring live music as well as
a presentation and Q&A session with our
experienced College Tours Team. We lift
the lid on how the music industry works
and offer advice and guidance on how
best to pursue your dream career.
BOOK YOUR PLACE
To book on one of our Open Days, please
visit the BIMM website and complete our
online booking form. We’ll be in touch to
confirm your place.
48 OPEN DAYS & COLLEGE TOURS
WANT US TO VISIT YOUR SCHOOL?
If you’re a student, parent or teacher
and would like BIMM to visit your
school or college, please contact our
Events Team at events@bimm.co.uk or
by calling 01 5133 666.
OPEN DAYS & COLLEGE TOURS 49
CONTACT
INFORMATION
TO APPLY TO BIMM, BOOK AN ASSESSMENT OR ASK US A QUESTION,
PLEASE DON’T HESITATE TO GET IN TOUCH.
BIMM Dublin
62-64 Francis Street
Dublin 8
Ireland
BIMM IS SHAPED BY ITS PEOPLE –
THE STAFF WHO RUN IT, THE GUESTS
WHO VISIT IT AND THE STUDENTS
WHO STUDY THERE.
Tel: 01 5133 666
Email: dublin@bimm.ie
www.bimm.ie
BIMM Dublin Official
@BIMMDublin
View our channel by searching
for ‘BIMM Dublin’
Please note: The information in the BIMM Prospectus and online is believed to be
correct. It’s not part of any agreement with parents/students and the Institute.
Courses and course content are regularly reviewed and may be subject to change.
50 CONTACT INFORMATION
DN002
YOUR
MUSIC CAREER
STARTS HERE
JOIN THE NEXT GENERATION OF
MUSIC INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS
AT BIMM DUBLIN
INDUSTRY IMMERSION
BIMM MASTERCLASSES
WORLD-CLASS FACILITIES
END-OF-TERM GIGS
STUDIO-RECORDED ALBUMS
PLAY AT A FESTIVAL
INDUSTRY-ENDORSED PRO EQUIPMENT
THE BEST CONNECTED TUTORS
Get in touch:
+353 1 5133 666
dublin@bimm.ie
BIMM Dublin
62–64 Francis Street
Dublin 8
Ireland
BIMM.IE