Daniel Ford.

I’ve seen a massive improvement in my skills over the past three years. When I think back to how I was working in the first year compared to now, it’s completely different. Being here and focusing on music every day has changed how I approach everything.

My journey into music

I properly got into music when I was about 12 or 13. I stumbled across a band online, picked up a guitar not long after, and that was it. From then on, I just kept going. I started learning instruments, writing music and eventually recording things at home on a laptop. A lot of what I do now came from teaching myself, experimenting and learning through lessons outside of school. I started getting into production about six years ago and just kept building on it from there.

Moving to Manchester

I’d never been to Manchester before I moved here. I grew up in a quiet countryside area, so coming to a big city was a bit of a shock at first. But I settled in quite quickly. Over the last three years I’ve really grown to like it. The music scene here is great — there’s always something going on and loads of gigs to go to. I’ve spent a lot of time at places like Night & Day Café, Gorilla, Albert Hall and The Ritz. Being surrounded by that kind of environment keeps you inspired.

Learning more than I expected

One thing that surprised me was how much depth there is to areas of audio I hadn’t really thought about before. The Sound for Visual Media module really pushed me. Learning about soundtracking, Foley and sound design was challenging, but it opened up a completely different side of the industry.

The recording modules have probably been my favourites overall. They’re very hands-on and you can get really detailed with it — learning about microphones, techniques and how small changes affect the sound. That kind of technical side of music is something I really enjoy.

Working with other people

One of the biggest things I’ve learned is how to work with others. Music is a really personal thing, so learning how to communicate, collaborate and manage relationships with people is a huge part of the process. Through the course I’ve worked with students from different programmes — vocalists, drummers and other musicians — bringing people into projects and building connections that way. Being in a place that’s completely focused on music makes that much easier.

Being in a professional studio environment naturally raises your standards.

Facilities that push you to improve

Working in a professional studio environment makes a big difference. It naturally raises your standards. You start thinking more carefully about how sessions run, how things sound and how to get the best results. I’ve really enjoyed working in the Audient studios and using the larger consoles. But for me, it’s not just about the gear — it’s the environment. If the space feels right and everyone’s comfortable, the session always goes better.

Growing over three years

Moving away from home and living in a new country has definitely changed me. You grow up quickly when you have to do everything yourself. I feel more independent, more confident and more sure of what I want to do. Being here has helped me become more well-rounded, both as a person and as a musician.

Looking ahead

Over the next year, the focus is finishing the course and finding a role in the industry. I’m really interested in mixing, mastering, sound for visual media and visualiser production. Ideally, I’d like to stay in Manchester and build a career here. Long term, I’d love to work across a few different areas — producing, engineering and collaborating with other creatives.