AN ACADEMY which teaches the next generation of great musicians had a smashing opening ceremony in Southampton.

The Academy of Music and Sound has taught higher education music qualifications and degrees to musicians in Southampton for the past 10 years and opened its new teaching space in the High Street.

Past pupils of the Academy of Music and Sound, which has schools across the country, include Tristan Evans the drummer of The Vamps who studied at their Exeter academy and recently performed at the Capital FM Jingle Bell Christmas Ball in London’s O2 arena.

Attending the opening was Mark Chadwick, singer and guitarist for The Levellers who opened the new academy by ceremoniously smashing a guitar on its steps instead of a Champagne bottle.

Steve Ryan, songwriter and principle of the Academy of Music and Sound, said: “The night was very successful and was a double celebration for us as we were opening our High Street academy and celebrating 10 years of musical education in Southampton.”

The event, which was attended by more than 100 people, also saw live performances from students and teachers after Mayor Linda Norris officially opened the centre which uses teachers who work in the music industry.

Mr Ryan, 50, from Exeter, added: “The majority of our students go on to work in the sector and most of them want to perform in bands.

“Most of them in one shape or form will perform in their own bands and some do a bit of teaching and we quite often combine a teaching qualification with the music qualifications.

“We are a pop and rock based academy and are looking for people who want to be fully rounded musicians.”

The Academy of Music and Sound offers qualifications in music including BTECs, Foundation Degrees and a top up Bachelor of Arts Degree.