ACM’s BASCA Scholarship was first offered in 2015 when talented student Ivan Proctor was chosen as the first recipient.

“I’ve really enjoyed my time at ACM so far! The advice and support from my tutors has been great. The live scene built around ACM is fantastic; there’s always an opportunity to play or watch live music. I’ve met some of the new members of my band China Bears here, and ACM has amazing facilities we can use to practice and record. Winning the scholarship has definitely helped me with finances and means I’ve been able to spend more time writing music.”

Ivan Proctor, BASCA Scholarship winner 2015After this great success, ACM is once again running the prestigious scholarship. All accepted students studying the Creative Songwriting and Artist Development pathway on the two year degree route this year were considered for this award and tutors at the academy have now undertaken the hard task of whittling the list down to just three finalists.

“It’s amazing to have BASCA as a partner and be able to offer a scholarship to one of our promising young songwriters. This could really make a difference for the winner, enabling them to concentrate fully on music rather than having to focus on, for instance, having a part-time job. That could give them a head start in their career!”

- Kaya Herstad-Carney, Pathway Leader, Creative Artist, ACM

Chosen based on the talent displayed in their audition pieces, 2016’s ACM BASCA scholarship finalists are:

- Autumn Caveny

“I’m so shocked that I was even picked to take part in this. It’s such a huge opportunity and I’m so grateful! I would never have thought that I would’ve even been considered in something like this, so overall I’m really excited (and quite terrified) to do it!

- Anya Lang

“It’s a huge accomplishment to have been recognised by such prominent figures in the music industry, let alone be picked out for the chance to receive a scholarship. I’m honoured that I’ve been given this opportunity to perform, especially having been chosen from an already select and very talented group of musicians.”

“When I got the call saying that I had been shortlisted to the final three for the ACM/BASCA Scholarship, I was absolutely thrilled. It’s such an honour to have my songwriting recognised by such a prestigious and successful committee of songwriters. I can’t wait to perform for the BASCA panel on the 15th!”

The finalists will perform in front of a specially selected industry panel at the BASCA Summer Party on 15th August where 2016’s winner will be announced.

“One of BASCA’s core objectives is to encourage the next generation of songwriters and composers, and launching a scholarship programme with ACM is the perfect opportunity for us to help a young songwriter develop their skills.”

- Vick Bain, CEO, British Academy of Songwriters, Composers and Authors (BASCA)

ACM still has limited places available to study at both their Guildford and London campuses. Applications via Clearing are now being accepted: http://www.acm.ac.uk/courses