Now working as a self-employed soundtrack composer, Rupert talks about his time as a student at Bristol.

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What led you to study the MA in Composition of Music for Film and Television? 

After my undergraduate degree, which was also at the University of Bristol, I worked for a couple of years as a soundtrack composer outside of a day job, and I found my passion through small projects starting out. I knew about the MA programme, and I knew the reputation of the department and the teaching was really good. I wanted to expand my skills and develop my portfolio, hopefully pursuing a career after graduating.  

What did you enjoy most about your time studying a master's? 

What I enjoyed most about my time was the teaching and the freedom that I was afforded as a creative student. I really enjoyed being able to learn new things and try new ideas, experiment, and develop my skills. That's definitely something I've taken into my career after graduating.  

Why did you choose Bristol for your master’s? 

Having studied at Bristol before, I knew about the good reputation of the course and the teaching. I really wanted to fill my skill gap about film and composing for film, and I knew it would set me up really well for career after graduating.  

What have you been doing since your master’s? 

I've been lucky enough to work on a range of different film and TV projects. After graduating, I was working and building up a portfolio of clients and experience until I was able to go full-time freelance a couple of years later. I'm currently working on soundtracks for films, TV and games. 

Did your master’s help you with finding employment after graduation? 

My master’s was essential for my career after graduating because I was offered a job opportunity through the music department while I was studying. My portfolio that I developed for the course was essential when applying for freelance work as a Composer, and I still work with some of the people that I collaborated with to this day.  

Do you think you would be where you are today if you hadn’t done the master’s?  

If I hadn't chosen to study a master's I don't think I'd be where I am today because I use all the skills that I learned every day in my job. It makes me a much better soundtrack composer than I would have been without studying.   

One piece of advice I would give to someone considering a master's would be to make the most of the course, the University and the city while you're here and make sure it's the right course for you.