Skip to main content

Severin Black

Profession
BA (Hons) Sound Arts student
College
London College of Communication
Person Type
Student
Severin  Black

Biography

Severin is a final year student on BA (Hons) Sound Arts at London College of Communication.

Interview

Why did you choose to study this course and why London College of Communication?            

I have always been deeply interested in music. I recently fell into solo electronic compositions, and wanted to broaden my horizon of knowledge and perspective. The course at LCC seemed broad enough to keep my options open, and this has benefited me over the last three years to experiment in a number of disciplines.

What’s the most interesting project you’ve worked on so far?  

Constructing a sound art installation as a collaborative project was challenging and extremely satisfying, feeling the closest to something existing in the 'real world'. I have also found the assignments which involve going and obtaining interesting recordings to be invaluable - using a contact mic on Greenwich Air Lift's pillar and almost getting arrested was an experience.

Have you had any opportunities to engage with industry whilst on the course?

Plenty of gallery/exhibition visits and guest speakers, but would like to have been given more chances to work with industry professionals. I specialise in sound design for film and would have enjoyed the task of making more films outside of University.

What has been the highlight of your LCC experience so far?      

The teachers and students are really what make it special. Some of the tutors from all backgrounds are some of the most inspirational people I’ve met, and have been excellent at getting the most out of me by encouraging my interests.

Why would you recommend this course to prospective students?

I think this is a great stepping stone into an infinite world of possibilities. I would love to have a career in almost every single discipline I’ve been taught, and will be happy if I can make a living from any one of them. This course will show you artists and viewpoints you never knew existed, and give you the chance to figure out what you like and don't like, which I think is an essential value.

What are your career aspirations? Where would you like to be in five years' time?    

I would like to be a freelance sound recordist, designer and composer. I would ideally use money from this to fund some occasional residencies and tours for my solo electronic project.

How do you find being a student in London? Describe your dream day in London - where would you go/what would you do?

As I grew up here it doesn't feel overwhelming, but it may do for others. My dream day is spent achieving goals I’ve set, especially ones that take me outside and away from the screen - recording soundscapes and atmospheres can be exciting and relaxing at the same time.

If you had to describe your LCC experience in three words, what would they be?

Perspective, ethics, ambition

Related area

View the BA (Hons) Sound Arts course page.