Jacob’s Internship
“I had the opportunity to play an active, meaningful role in the running of the ensemble, gaining valuable insights into its administration. I’ve developed a wide range of organisational, communication, and presentation skills through a large variety of tasks that I was able to create with great autonomy, the results of which have been subsequently utilised by The K’antu Ensemble.”
— Jacob, Music MA Graduate at University of Birmingham
What skills did I develop?
1. Communication and interpersonal skills
I was required to reach out to schools and organisations, directly approaching them regarding potential workshops and outreach. I developed an understanding of persuasive engagement with potential clients.
2. Research and analytical skills
I was required to think on my own two feet and conduct investigations via phone and internet research. I conducted research to a brief and then implemented my findings into activity sheets for a varied audience. I compiled data and presented it in a format which was easy to understand, comprehend and useful for follow-up.
3. Creative and design skills
I created and designed a range of activity sheets, and edited a series of videos used for promotional material by the ensemble. I developed an understanding of the target audience and worked to a design brief, whilst culturing an aesthetically exciting approach. Working with new IT suites, like Canva, has been particularly rewarding and has enabled me to develop not only my skills with them but also a series of promotional videos that has subsequently been used by the ensemble in a real life setting.
4. Marketing and social media
I had the opportunity to develop promotional materials to be distributed to potential clients. This enabled me to gain invaluable experience working to a brief but also acting creatively to generate compulsive viewing for audiences. I learnt how to create interesting material that the audience will engage with, and about the tools required to undertake this, whilst understanding the potential outcomes on the ensemble’s profile. Click here to view one of the videos I created for the K’antu Ensemble social media accounts.
5. Presentation skills
I was given the opportunity to transcribe works from manuscript that will be used in a real performance. Presentation is key and allowed me to develop my skills in this regard.
