Northampton College students given inspiration song-writing workshop by guitarist Newton Faulkner

The 31-year-old topped the album charts in 2007 with his double platinum debut release ‘Hand Built By Robots’ and has gone on to enjoy huge mainstream success.

The star was invited into the college, in Booth Lane, Northampton, to talk to students about what it takes to gain success in the notoriously competitive world of music, and how they can stand out from the crowd.

He also shared song-writing advice and answered questions from the audience.

Mr Faulkner, who recently landed a starring role in the Green Day musical ‘American Idiot’, said: “I enjoy these kind of workshops as it’s something a bit different to playing songs.

“I learn as much as anyone else at things like this. Most of the time I try not to think about what I do so when I am actually forced to analyse it all I find out more about myself.

“The students are always keen to know how to get started in the industry and also how to ensure you earn enough money at the start of your career, which is getting harder and harder these days.”

Northampton College has a rich heritage in producing successful musicians, with former students going on to star in current bands Alien Uncovered and Temples.

Prospective students can learn more about the music courses on offer at Northampton College during Skills Fest on Friday, April 22 – a festival featuring a series of master classes followed by a live DJ set from Made in Chelsea star Jamie Laing.

For more information about Skills Fest, visit www.northamptoncollege.ac.uk