MUSIC technology students at Glyndwr University are receiving cutting edge production tips from a former DJ at a legendary Manchester nightclub.
Graeme Park was resident at the Hacienda club in Manchester for more than 10 years and has now turned his hand to lecturing.
Graeme was asked to lecture music technology students by sound technology lecturer John Reynolds, who is spending a year on sabbatical on an industry project – and was more than happy to help out.
“I’ve always done work with music students but more along the lines of talking about my career, so I approached the opportunity with a bit of trepidation at first,” said Graeme, who has also had shows on Kiss, Key 103 and Liverpool’s Radio City.
“But it’s worked out brilliantly. When I came here for my first lecture it was a bit like playing in a club.
"You get there an hour before and get a vibe for what you’re going to play – and that’s exactly what I did here. I found my groove quite quickly.
“It gives me the chance to pass on some technical skills about producing and remixing tracks plus years of knowledge and advice from working in the music industry. I’m really enjoying it.”
Graeme, 46, lectures on the course one day a week while continuing to work as a DJ at weekends – with gigs in Dubai, Dundee, Skegness, Coalville, Middlesbrough and Manchester coming up in December.
His work with students includes introducing them to the art of music production, showing them how it has changed over the years and where it is heading in future.
Hacienda facts:
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Glyndwr’s new lecturer made his name at the Manchester club opened in 1982 by the late Factory Records boss Tony Wilson and members of the group New Order.
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It became a mecca for clubbers, attracting some of the world’s biggest acts and DJs before closing in 1997.
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The building, a former yacht builder’s shop and warehouse, was demolished in 2002 and the site is now a housing development.