For Thomas, Booster Festival is a springboard to the music industry
- Music
Not all academy of music students aspire to a life in the spotlight. For some, the allure lies in working behind the scenes of the music industry. This is true for Thomas, who moved from Limburg to Enschede to pursue a bachelor's degree in MediaMusic at ArtEZ Academy of Music in Enschede. His ambition? To become a versatile producer and thrive in the music industry. From his attic room in Enschede, he shares his experiences about his journey to the conservatory and the project he's involved in during the Music Management minor: organizing the networking meeting of the Booster Festival.
Sound design
Thomas developed a passion for music at a young age. He started playing the guitar at thirteen and later delved into producing. "When I heard certain guitarists play, I thought: that's how I want to sound. But with the limited resources and knowledge I had then, I couldn't achieve it. In the quest for my own sound and its professionalization, I discovered the MediaMusic program at ArtEZ Academy of Music in Enschede. This program follows the 'crossfade model', meaning there's a gradual transition into the professional field. Within the 'Producer for Bands, Artists & Media' profile, I can further develop my musical skills and apply them directly in practice. Not only for myself as a musician but also for other artists. During the program, I learned to produce for various music genres, from funk to disco to metal. Through this expansion of knowledge, I can better define my own sound and take steps in the actual field as a producer for bands.
Networking & Booster Festival
To secure assignments as a music professional, you need a network. For musicians, the primary way to be seen is by performing on stage and publishing music. But how does that work for people behind the scenes of the music industry? Various festivals offer opportunities backstage, including the Booster Festival. The Booster Festival takes place this year on Saturday, April 6th, and will be held at ArtEZ Academy of Music in Enschede and Metropool Enschede. The entire day focuses on the development of the musician, with a music conference in the afternoon and a free showcase in the evening. This year, Thomas is working with a group of ArtEZ students on the organization of the festival, where he is responsible for recruiting talent scouts for the feedback sessions.
Future Perspectives
The experiences and contacts Thomas has gained during his studies have inspired him to start his own business. Studying at the conservatory as a producer and musician has provided him with unique networking opportunities. The crossfade principle also involves recognizing and seizing opportunities. As a well-known MediaMusic student, Thomas mentions artist Babs, also a former Booster student and now known as a producer, rapper, and participant in the latest season of 'Wie is de Mol?'. For Thomas, the highlights of his education include participating in events such as Booster and No Man's Land, which offer him unique experiences and insights he wouldn't otherwise have.
ArtEZ Finals
Regarding his graduation next year, Thomas is considering various options, including expanding his own company and freelance work in the A&R sector. He is also considering the possibility of studying abroad, which would broaden his horizons further. Thanks to his established network within Booster, Thomas has a contact list full of people he can approach for suitable and educational internships or assignments.
