When I first chose to study Music with Spanish for my undergraduate degree, I was drawn in by the incredible breadth of expertise within the Music Department at the University of Manchester. The academic flexibility was a huge bonus, allowing me to pursue a language alongside my main subject. But what truly excited me was the wealth of student-led opportunities available. These experiences proved invaluable, offering practical skills and a taste of life beyond university.

Returning to Manchester for my Master’s in Arts Management felt like a natural next step. I was eager to deepen my understanding of the cultural industries and the policies that shape them. One of the major draws was the flexibility to balance studying with part-time work. This allowed me to continue building my professional experience while benefiting from the exceptional teaching at the Institute of Cultural Practices.

Like many, I feel I naturally found my way into my career—a journey I credit to the knowledge, skills, and networks I developed at Manchester. My undergraduate degree gave me a strong foundation in music, which I draw on daily in my work as the Creative Producer at Creative Manchester and Manchester Camerata. Meanwhile, my master’s equipped me with a more critical, informed perspective. This helps me support the organisations I work with in developing fresh ideas and impactful projects.

One of the most rewarding surprises from my time at Manchester has been the opportunity to collaborate professionally with some of the world-leading lecturers and seminar tutors I studied with. It’s an incredible privilege to work within such an inspiring academic community, one that’s played a huge part in shaping the person I am today.

For anyone considering studying Culture, the Arts, or Music, I genuinely couldn’t recommend Manchester more highly. There’s no better city to hone your craft (and that’s coming from someone who grew up in London!). If you’re joining the University, my biggest piece of advice is to seek out practical experiences alongside your studies. Whether it’s leading a student society, volunteering with a local organisation, or gaining part-time work in your field of interest, these experiences will enrich your learning and ensure you graduate with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to take your next steps. Manchester is bursting with incredible opportunities, many facilitated by the University, so make the most of them!

Written by Max Thomas- class of 2018 BA Music with Spanish and 2022 MA Arts Management, Policy and Practice

Max is an award-winning Arts Manager and Executive Coach, dedicated to developing people, projects, and partnerships across the Arts and Higher Education sectors. He is the Creative Producer at Creative Manchester (The University of Manchester) and Manchester Camerata, while also working as a freelance Executive Coach.

In his role as Creative Producer, Max produces concerts and community-based projects and leads the Manchester Camerata 360° Ruth Sutton Fellowship, supporting young professional musicians. He also facilitates knowledge exchange between Manchester Camerata and The University of Manchester through research and teaching, while fostering partnerships with external organisations to deliver co-produced performances, professional development initiatives, and research-based evaluations. Throughout his career, Max has worked with leading arts organisations, including Hallé Concerts Society, Kantos Chamber Choir, Manchester Literature Festival, and the University of Manchester Students’ Union.

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