dBs under the spotlight

Being a student at dBs Institute means joining a close-knit community of exceptional creatives. dBs is on a relentless mission to empower creatives by providing the experience, education, and opportunities needed for a career in the creative industry.

With courses like ‘electronic music production’, ‘music and sound for film and TV’, or ‘live sound’, dBs tutors possess the expertise and passion to elevate your skills to the next level. My favourite aspect is the consistent freedom and responsibility given to students.

As student president, I’ve experienced this freedom by working with dBs to leave my mark on the institution. I helped introduce societies such as the games society, plug-in development society, and the upcoming DJ Society, and influenced the décor with new poster walls, memo boards, plants and bean bag seating areas.

Student president Evie Turner just graduated in sound design from dBs – photo : @finn_ok

I have also visited dBs campuses nationwide, meeting students and tutors from the original Plymouth location and the new Manchester campus.

Most opportunities I’ve had at dBs didn’t come from being student president. With its own professional wing, dBs Pro, students regularly receive exciting prospects. dBs Pro collaborates with artists, engineers, companies, and charities, using expert knowledge of recording and production to create industry impact. They exclusively offer valuable placements, allowing students to gain direct experience in professional roles.

dBs doesn’t just offer opportunities; it creates an ideal environment for creative growth, with accessible studios and responsive teachers who support your improvement. Its modest student population ensures studios and skilled technicians are readily available for any project.

There is never a doubt in my mind that if I need support, I will be able to find it in abundance at dBs. In addition to educational facilities and opportunities, dBs provides excellent mental health services, support for individuals with additional needs, and bookable career advice. I have personally received meaningful support, which has enabled me to flourish and grow in many ways.

The institution offers degree courses across its three UK campuses – in Bristol, Manchester, and Plymouth – and online: photo: dBs institute

Some of my favourite memories at dBs include founding the games society and getting a whole room of people simultaneously involved in a dBs Minecraft server.

Another highlight was the ‘Innovation in Sound’ event for third-year students, where I presented my sound design project—a live biosonification machine that converts the electrical signals of mushrooms and plants into music and visuals. This annual event lets future graduates showcase their final projects to large audiences, inspiring peers and highlighting the student body’s fantastically diverse talents.

Overall, dBs holds a truly special place in my heart, as it has always been a safe space where I have learned and grown, both personally and professionally.

I am excited for the opportunities dBs offers you as an incoming student. The friendships and skills I gained here will last a lifetime, and the importance of this fantastic creative collective cannot be understated.

I hope that in a few years, you will feel the same.

Main photo: dBs Institute