Alexander Peters de Alvear
The Tonmeister degree offers the perfect combination of music and engineering, technical and creative knowledge. The course is very well structured, academic, and has a hands-on approach to learn the theory and practical skills needed to work in any field in the Music industry.
Course
Music and Sound Recording (Tonmeister) BSc (Hons)Entry year
2020CHOOSING US
During my third year in an Industrial Engineering degree at a university in Madrid, I decided to make a change towards a more music and sound focused side of engineering. I decided to come to Surrey for the Music and Sound Recording (Tonmeister) course. After extensive research, I found it to be among the best Music and Sound Recording courses in Europe. It’s a larger university than what I’m used to attending in Spain and student engagement is also much higher than I’ve experienced before.
THE COURSE
The Tonmeister degree offers the perfect combination of music and engineering, technical and creative knowledge. The course is very well structured, academic, and has a hands-on approach to learn the theory and practical skills needed to work in any field in the Music industry. The facilities and staff are one of a kind. Few universities have such extensive equipment, or staff that are so knowledgeable and successful within their field.
YOUR LIFE HERE
I am part of the Surrey Stage Crew and the USSU Big Band. These societies have been extremely valuable in meeting like-minded people from other courses and gaining experience in new activities. There is an abundance of student engagement in societies, sports, and music and so many opportunities students to get involved. The lake is also a nice place to hang out over the summer. Most of a Tonmeister’s time will be spent in the Performing Arts Technology Studios (PATS), making recordings.
SUPPORT
There is a good range and availability of support at Surrey. Tutorials can be booked weekly, and lecturers are always willing to help. I have also used the International Student support team for help on details with moving to the UK and getting settled in at Surrey.
LOOKING BACK…AND FORWARD
My favourite moments have been the end of year lecture and prizegiving, where all Tonmeisters and Lecturers come together and celebrate the successes and comedies of the year. Afterwards, the whole course heads out to the lake to party. In terms of how the University of Surrey has changed me… I’ve become aware that it’s important to remember that ‘no matter how much you think you know, there is always more to learn’.
