We were exceptionally proud to host our 2023 graduation ceremony at the historic Brighton Dome for our amazing and talented cohort of BA and MA graduates.  

Celebrating resilience, creativity and dedication

With over 500 guests in attendance 81 students joined together with family, friends and staff members to celebrate their achievements. The ceremony was held in the Concert Hall of the Brighton Dome which has hosted performances by artists and bands such as Stevie Wonder, David Bowie, Abba, Jimi Hendrix and Pink Floyd, a truly iconic setting. 

Adding to the celebratory atmosphere, guests were treated to a performance by a string quartet led by Andrew Stuart-Buttle, a talented violinist, producer and arranger from Brighton. 

At the ceremony, the accomplished graduates were honoured for their hard work and received their well-deserved awards surrounded by their family and friends. Speakers included WaterBear’s Co-Founder and CEO Adam Bushell, Director of Education Rasha Shaheen, BA Online Senior Programme Manager Kaya Herstad-Carney, BA Senior Programme Manager Tom Stevens, and MA Programme Manager Mike Sturgis. 

WaterBear BA graduates

Addressing the BA graduates, Tom Stevens said: “In September 2020, this group of very talented individuals before me began their incredible journey with us, still a relatively new college, sharing a vision to approach music education in a new way, and to be part of something very special. 

“Fast forward 3 years and I’m immensely proud to be part of the graduation celebration today of truly inspirational, creative, resilient and exceptionally hard-working professionals.” 

WaterBear MA graduates

Mike Sturgis, also spoke at the ceremony: “MA graduates, I stand before you now deeply honoured and excited, to congratulate each and every one of you on your outstanding achievements. By completing your studies, you have demonstrated qualities such as resilience and determination that are not only commendable but are deeply ingrained in WaterBear’s values. 

“When you chose to study at WaterBear, you entered a unique and nurturing environment – one that, I believe, mirrors the great city of Brighton in its freedom, acceptance and inclusivity. And, just as Brighton has always been a haven for artists and free-thinkers, WaterBear has become a community for those who are passionate about music and its transformative power. 

“I urge you to take pride in your achievements and recognise the value of the hard work, dedication and passion you have poured into your music and research. Your time at WaterBear has indeed been transformative, and it has empowered you with the tools and knowledge to make a significant impact on the world.” 

WaterBear – The College of Music 

WaterBear offers BA (Hons) degree and master’s courses made for today’s musicians, artists and industry professionals. Our colleges are based in the heart of Brighton and Sheffield, two amazing UK cities with incredible musical roots and heritage. We also have a range of online distance learning courses too. 

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WaterBear is a College of Falmouth University, a pioneer in creative industries education, entrepreneurship and innovation. Run by musicians, for musicians we are about smaller class sizes, flexible course delivery, bespoke one-to-one mentoring and exclusive work experience and career development opportunities.