Recognising Excellence Award Winners – Ellie Tucker
Just a few short weeks ago, the College was proud to host the Recognising Excellence Awards, celebrating many of our wonderful students who’ve put their all into their studies, and achieved fantastic results.
To continue marking their success, we’re featuring interviews with some of the winners from that great evening in Granton, finding out what it meant to them, and how they’re enjoying their overall experience at the College.
First up is 31-year-old Livingston native Ellie Tucker, who studies UAL Level 3 Music Performance and Production. Ellie nabbed the Outstanding Achievement Award for the Academy of Creative Industries, Culture and Languages.
Hi Ellie! How does it feel to pick up a Recognising Excellence Award?
“It was very unexpected! I feel really grateful to be recognised for my achievements.”
What made you choose the College in the first place?
“Edinburgh College has a really strong focus on rehearsal and performance, and I knew there’d be lots of opportunities to perform live at local venues across the city, like Jazz Bar, the Mash House and the Voodoo Rooms. Before I started my studies, I’d taken part in a King’s Trust music short course, and this felt like a natural progression.”
What would you say you enjoy the most about studying at Edinburgh College?
“There’s a real sense of community here. I’ve joined a lot of the ensembles, and I feel like that helped to make friends very quickly. I think you get a lot of support here, both from staff and your fellow students. It’s really apparent how passionate the lecturers are about music, and it’s reflected in their teaching. It’s made me feel motivated to work hard, and I look to them for inspiration.”
Is there anything you’ve achieved during your time here that you’re particularly proud of?
“I’m very proud of the confidence I’ve gained in terms of performing. When I applied I wanted to take every chance I could to get out and perform, and grow my experience in that area. Taking part in Streetmash (A Scottish-Latin fusion brass and percussion street band led by College lecturer Rocio Banyuls-Bertomeu) really helped me with this. I’ve lost count of how many performances we’ve put on over the last year! It played a big part in me coming out of my shell."
Finally, what are your plans for the future?
“I have a conditional offer to continue studying music at Edinburgh College at HND level – which I’m really looking forward to! I plan to study to degree level with the college and become a working musician.”