What has been the most important thing you've learned at LCoM?
LCoM helped me become the person and artist that I am. It has let me develop myself in every aspect: as a songwriter, artist, creative, vocalist and everything that comes with that. Rather than trying to make me fit a mould, LCoM has supported me to become the artist I envisioned myself to be.
What are you planning on doing next after you leave LCoM?
I'm going to release music! Soon I am going to release my first single as DUNE Aimee. For the past years, I have worked really hard on developing my own sound and visual style as an electronic commercial pop artist and I cannot wait to finally share it. Currently, I am located in the Netherlands and collaborating with people from all over the world. I will share more and more music, perform live and infuse other people with passion for music through teaching.
Is there anything you've encountered over the last few years that has really made you push yourself as a musician or anything new that you had not tried before?
LCoM is filled with talented musicians and artists that are, or strive to be professionals in the music industry. It offered the rare opportunity in life to be with this many like minded people in one building. Being surrounded by amazing, creative and skilled people all the time inspired me to do better and work even harder. It made me push my own limits and quickly develop myself as a songwriter and vocalist more than ever before.
What is the best piece of advice you've been given at LCoM?
To trust myself as an artist and not always seek for external approval. Music, creativity and arts in general are all subjective, so therefore even specialists will have different opinions. Some people are going to like what I do, and some are not. The most important thing is that I am happy and 100% committed to the music I am sharing. Only then does it mean something when my audience relates to my music.
What has been the best project / opportunity you've had during your degree?
The amazing collaborations and external songwriting opportunities! I had the honour to go on multiple international songwriting camps during my three years at LCoM. They taught me about the current music industry and gave me the opportunity to make connections with labels and creatives all around the world. There is so much you can learn from other songwriters, musicians and artists, especially when international. It allowed for instant feedback and a high learning curve.
What has been the biggest challenge and how has this helped you develop?
For me it was pretty overwhelming to be surrounded by so many talented people. In the beginning it made me a little insecure but soon I realised everyone was extremely supportive. On top of that, even the most amazing artists struggle with insecurities. LCoM has provided an encouraging, loving and supportive environment that almost made me forget about the extremely competitive nature of the music industry. It made me find confidence in myself and allowed me to develop a new level of comfort on stage. Somebody else's strength is not the determination of my weakness.
What is your favourite LCoM memory?
Apart from the amazing songwriting camps and connections I have made over the years, some of my favourite memories are from the LCoM Contemporary Pop Choir. There is so much collective joy and commitment in this choir. Working closely with like-minded and talented singers as well as individual artists has been really empowering and motivating. The shows have been absolutely amazing, and made me push myself a little harder every day. Although our final show at LCoM was cancelled due to COVID-19, the beautiful community shows before then will always stay with me!
What advice would you give to others thinking of applying to your course at LCoM?
The one thing I would recommend everyone to do is to make the most of your time at LCoM. It is an absolutely amazing course with many additional opportunities. You have an incredible chance to use LCoM and its resources, culture, network and facilities to its full potential. Say yes to all the extra possibilities, apply for additional programs and make sure you get everything out of it while you can.
How would you describe your experience at LCoM in three words?
Inspiring, exciting, beautiful.
