It was a proud moment for James Collings when he found out that he had achieved two distinctions and a merit for his recently completed National Diploma in Music, but it didn’t beat being told that he had been accepted at one of the best music academies in the world.

‘Guitar-X’ maintains an enviable reputation within the music industry and since 1983 it claims to have trained more successful musicians than anyone else in Europe. And 19-year old James is one of just three students in the world to be accepted straight onto its degree course this year.

James, from Bewdley, completed his National Diploma in Music at Kidderminster College this summer and hopes to achieve his dream of becoming a session musician when he completes his Bachelor of Music (Hons) Degree in Music Performance at Guitar-X.

The 3-year training will teach him to be a professional in an industry that demands many skills, from performance through to composition.
James’s tutor, Carrie Pickering, commented ‘James has been the model student and his acceptance at Guitar-X is testimony to his talent and versatility.

His commitment at college over the last two years has certainly paid off and now he’s got what he truly deserves!’ To which James added, “It’s been hard work over the past couple of years, but it’s also been great fun!”