Fred Hollingsworth
Technical Expert and Team Leader: Music
Fred is responsible for the organisation, staffing and resourcing of the Music Technical Team, in addition to taking a lead on all performance activities. He works closely with Rob to develop strategy and purchasing plans for the Music Studios and with the Loans Team to instigate facility and equipment booking policies. His primary teaching responsibility is on MUS1010 Studio Production.
Fred has 18 years of experience across recording studios, live sound, event production, broadcast, streaming and video production. He actively operates a freelance business, North East Audio, in addition to his roles at the university. He got his start as a musician and still likes to noodle away on various string instruments. He received a BSc (Hons) in Music Technology and Audio Systems from The University of Huddersfield, just after joining Newcastle University in 2013. He went on to receive a PGCE in Post-Compulsory Education and Training from Northumbria University in 2016 and achieved a Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy the following year. He is a Member of the Institute for Science and Technology.
Fred’s academic interests are in active spatial audio, timbral classification, studio production and creative programming. His favourite piece of studio equipment is the Neve 8424 mixer.
Students should contact Fred if they wish to develop skills in sound engineering, want advice on their performance setups or need advice on any of the facilities at the university.
Rob Blazey
Music Technician & PhD Candidate
Rob is a musician and sound artist from Newcastle upon Tyne. He has a Masters in studio-based composition and is currently working towards a PhD. This is focused on the use of collage techniques in composition, performance and the creation of new instruments, interfaces and sound-art installations. He is interested in creative sampling, live electronic performance and turntablism amongst other things. His band Grey Tapes combines live drums, double bass and vocals with samplers and synths. He also enjoys recording and producing for himself and others.
Rob is responsible for running the equipment loans service and helping deliver sound tech support for concerts, events and recitals.
Rob has lectured on Digital Music Production, delivers one-to-one tuition in studio-based composition and live electronic performance and sometimes teaches tabla on the Indian Music in Practice module.
You can contact Rob directly for help with equipment loans, troubleshooting in the studios or music skills suite, or if you would like to discuss creative recording or live electronic performance projects.
Anna Heslop
School Technician
Anna is an ICMuS graduate with a background in electroacoustic composition. She is responsible for providing a reliable loans service for music students and contributes to facilities management and concerts/performances. She is based in the Old Library Building.
Glenn Bruinewoud
School Technician
Glenn is an ICMuS graduate with a love for ska. He is responsible for providing a reliable loans service for music students and contributes to facilities management and concerts/performances. He is based in the Old Library Building