Dedicated guitar player Matthew wins place on UK music course

23 September 2009

Matthew Taylor, a service user from one of St Christopher's Isle of Man homes, was recently featured in the Isle of Man Today newspaper. Journalist John Gregory wrote:

'A Douglas teenager is all set to pursue his musical dreams after being accepted for a place at university.

Matthew Taylor, 16, will head to the University of Derby's Buxton campus to study a BTEC national diploma in music practice in September.

The two year course will lead to a nationally recognised qualification, equivalent to three 'A' levels, that will give him a great starting point for a career in the music business.

What is remarkable about Matthew is his dedication to his instrument – while he has only been playing the guitar for ten months he practices up to a staggering eight hours a day.

He says he has been influenced by musicians such as Johnny Cash, Bob Dylan, Neil Young, Oasis and The Beatles.

Matthew also writes his own songs and he has collaborated with local singer songwriter Jimmy Gillespie.

He said he is really excited about the course and we will keep our readers informed of his progress.'