Loughborough Schools Music is excited to announce Firas Waez as the department’s first Visiting Fellow. Working predominately with Music Technology pupils in years 12 and 13 Firas will use his wealth of experience and industry knowledge to help mentor them professionally and provide them with valuable connections within the commercial music industry.

Firas Waez has been working within the music industry for nearly two decades and as part of electronic duo Waze & Odyssey, he achieved a Number 3 Official UK chart single in 2014. Firas attended Loughborough Grammar School between 1994 and 2001 before following his passion for music, getting his big break at BBC Radio 1 as an assistant producer.

Music Technology is an increasingly popular A Level option at Loughborough Schools Foundation, especially since the refurbishment of the music technology facilities which include two top-of-the-range recording studios. Music Technology pupils at LSF will have a unique advantage in that they will be receiving bespoke mentoring from a professional who has a wealth of experience in the music industry.

Charles Price, Head of Academic Music said: “With Loughborough Schools Music boasting specialised music technology teachers and outstanding facilities, bringing in a mentor with a background such as Firas’ takes our provision to the next level. I’m excited for our pupils to learn beyond the A Level curriculum, developing creative and business skills that will give them an edge in this highly competitive industry.” “

Firas said: “This is an amazing chance for me to pass on the goodwill and opportunities that I was so grateful to be granted when I was 16 and trying to break into the industry. Electronic music is everywhere from BBC Radio 2, to the Royal Albert Hall and the Barbican. I hope to be able to amplify the talents of each individual pupil to enable them to make the most of the connections and opportunities available to them.”

David Morris, Head of Partnerships and Development said: “We are delighted to welcome Firas as the first member of our exciting Visiting Fellow programme. As well as Firas supporting our Music Technology pupils, we are bringing in five more experts to work with our elite ensembles and A Level pupils.

“To date we can announce that Symphonic Wind Band will be working with Squadron Leader Richard Murray who is Director of Music at The Royal Air Force, Chamber Choir will be working Jonathan Rathbone who is the former Musical Director of The Swingle Singers and our topflight Chamber ensembles will be working with Dr Maria Immaculata Setiadi who is a Leverhulme/Pro Corda Fellow in Chamber Music. We will be announcing the final two Fellows, who will work with composers and Symphony Orchestra, soon.”