Ed Sheeran surprises music students at Sheffield College

Songwriter Singer offered industry tips and performed with the students

Global superstar Ed Sheeran surprised Sheffield College music students by performing with them during a workshop visit.

The singer-songwriter met students and staff before sharing insights into the music industry in a question and answer session.

He also took the stage to perform “Castle on the Hill.”

Earlier in the day, he visited Red Tape Studios on Shoreham Street and spoke to young musicians completing Sheffield Music School’s songwriting course.

The surprise visit was organized in partnership with Sheffield City Council.

Angela Foulkes, Chief Executive and Principal, Sheffield College, said:

“It was fantastic to welcome Ed Sheeran to college.

“We’re used to giving students access to some fantastic industry experts as part of our new Skills Guarantee – but this is on another level!

“It’s not every day that a global singer drops by to share his talent, knowledge and expertise with students to help them move forward in their careers.”

Matthew Henley, Curriculum Manager for Music, Sheffield College, added:

“We are truly proud of our diverse community of students, some of whom have gone on to find success as performers, DJs, songwriters, promoters and producers.

“It was an honor to meet Ed Sheeran. The students couldn’t believe it when he walked into the hall and joined the rehearsal of his song. It was an inspiring experience they will never forget.”

Ian Naylor, Head of Music Education, Sheffield City Council, said:

“Sheffield has a rich musical heritage and is committed to developing homegrown talent and seeing our creative industries thrive.

“It was a pleasure to host Ed today and see firsthand his commitment to using his global platform to advocate for the importance of music education.

“There is real alignment with our own ambitions here in Sheffield where, despite a challenging funding environment, our commitment to a future where music is at the heart of our plans for the city is unwavering, particularly the £15m Harmony development of pounds sterling. Works project.

“Most importantly, Ed’s visit was a brilliant experience for Sheffield’s music students and showcases what our wonderful city has to offer.”

Student Lol Bailey, 19, who was singing ‘Shape of You’ when Ed Sheeran took to the stage, is completing an extended degree in music performance and production at the college.

“I was really disappointed when Ed Sheeran came on stage but he was brilliant,” said Lol, whose ambition is to make it big in the music industry.

As well as studying, Lol is in a band called Shabbah and does paid gigs in Sheffield and London, having developed his love of music during the Covid-19 lockdown.

Student Brad Lyne, 18, who is also completing an extended degree in music performance and production, had the chance to rap with Ed Sheeran.

Brad, whose name is Cheatcodez, said:

“It was so cool. He’s a global superstar and an absolute legend, but he was just a normal guy who gave us some great advice. It made me think that if he can be successful, so can we.”

Music student Wisdom Ohue, 19, who performs under the name Wisdom-Wizzystar, added:

“I was very shocked when he came on stage. I didn’t expect it at all.”

Wisdom added:

“My college experience was great. My confidence and performance skills have become much better.”

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