A guitarist who has performed with some of the most iconic bands and artists is set to inspire and mentor a select group of talented students at Hull College.
Aziz Ibrahim, a name synonymous with extraordinary guitar virtuosity, has graced stages worldwide as a member of acts such as The Stone Roses and Simply Red, along with supporting the likes of Paul Weller and Hot Chocolate, throughout his illustrious thirty-plus-year career in the music industry.
Aziz, who replaced John Squire on six-string duties in the Stone Roses and played with the group until it split in 1996, also worked extensively with the Manchester band’s frontman Ian Brown during his career as a solo artist.
Now established as a creative figure on the British alternative rock and roots music scenes, his distinctive guitar skills have garnered global acclaim, showcasing his unique fusion of progressive rock and Asian Blues through his solo work.
A passionate supporter of music education initiatives, Aziz will be working with and playing alongside Hull College students – all of whom have a passion for music and creativity – to provide an amazing once in a lifetime opportunity on Thursday 25 April.
Among the students participating in this exclusive event are Music Performance and Production students Bailey Parr, Joshua Fletcher, William Hawksworth, Jack Christopher, and Harry Lockwood. Additionally, students from diverse disciplines such as Digital Media Production, Art & Design, Electrotechnical, Carpentry & Joinery and Health & Social Care will also have the unique opportunity to collaborate directly with the talented 60-year-old musician. The group features an eclectic mix of guitarists, vocalists, rappers, beatboxers, a saxophonist, and even a Michael Jackson tribute artist.
Commenting on the event, Aziz Ibrahim expressed his enthusiasm, stating: “I am honoured to have the opportunity to work with and mentor the talented students at Hull College. Music education is not only essential for technical skill development but also for fostering creativity and passion. I am excited to share my experiences and insights with the next generation of musicians, and I look forward to witnessing their growth and innovation.”
Abi Smith, Executive Director of Learner Services at Hull College, also shared her excitement about the upcoming event, stating: “We are delighted to be welcoming Aziz Ibrahim back to Hull College later this month. He put on a fantastic and thoroughly informative talk as part of our Student CPD Week in November last year, and we can’t wait to see him again. His mentorship will undoubtedly inspire our students to reach new heights in their musical endeavours and personal development.
“Aziz’s dedication to music education and his remarkable career in the industry make him an ideal role model for our students, and we are grateful for the opportunity for them to learn from such a distinguished and talented musician.”
Aziz’s commitment to community causes, including guitar lessons and mentoring sessions for prisoners in a re-integration programme and providing Music Therapy for hospice patients, reflects his dedication to giving back to society. Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth recognised Ibrahim’s contributions to Great Britain’s economy, culture, and the music industry in a ceremony at Buckingham Palace in 2005 along with Brian May, Jeff Beck, the Bee Gees, and many others. He is also a recipient of the UK Jinnah award, for outstanding achievement in music, presented to him at the Foreign & Commonwealth Office in 2011.
This exclusive event promises to be a transformative experience for Hull College students, providing them with a unique opportunity to learn from one of the music industry’s most esteemed figures.