Our long term aim is to create a pathway from aspiring musicians within education, all the way to professional performers/Artists within the music industry. We hope to help build a thriving Music scene here in the South West and to use music as a medium to: challenge stereotypes; to be inclusive of all; have an impact on those living in areas of deprivation; and to change peoples lives for the better.
We are based in Plymouth and currently promote gigs and film live sessions across the country. From UK Number one Artists, to up and coming local Artists, we have worked with a variety of talent, and now wish to work from the grassroots up.
We aim to inspire and create life chances for young people in Devon and Cornwall through the fantastic network; variety of teachable skills and opportunities; decades of experience in education and the music industry; and the wealth of knowledge Sound Factory possesses.
Our Partnerships with Plymouth University, Barbican Theatre and Sound Unlimited; as well as great professional relationships with music venues, record labels, promoters and recording studios across the South West, gives Sound Factory a reputation for exceptional Artist Development and opportunities like no other.
OUR AIM AT
SOUND FACTORY SCHOOLS
WhAT IS Sound Factory Schools?
Sound Factory Schools is a music school with a difference. We don’t just teach children how to play songs — we inspire them to create, record, and perform their *own* original music too. Every student gets the chance to experience using professional studio equipment to record their music, all at a price that’s more affordable than most other music schools.
Why Choose Sound Factory Schools?
🎵 Affordable Music Lessons
While Rocksteady charges £44.68 per month, Sound Factory Schools offers lessons for just £31.99 per month — and we even take a payment break in August. That means high-quality music education at a price parents and carers can feel good about.
🎤 Real Performances
At the end of every term the students perform live, giving them the chance to showcase their talent and progress in front of family and friends.
🎧 Recording Experience
Once a year, students will write and record an *original song* as a band — at no extra cost! This hands-on experience introduces them to professional recording and music production, with their finished track to keep forever.
🎸 Multi-Instrument Opportunities
Each student focuses on one main instrument but is encouraged to explore others too. This helps them develop a stronger sense of musicianship, teamwork, and creativity.
👩🏫 Small Group Sizes
Lessons run for 30 minutes with no more than six students per group, ensuring every child receives plenty of individual support and attention.
🎲 Fun, Games & Awards
Our sessions include interactive music games and end of year awards, giving children a sense of pride with their progress and having fun while they learn.
🏅 Recognition & Communication
Children celebrate milestones every term with certificates of achievement. Parents also receive updates and photos so they can see the joy and progress firsthand.
Risk-Free Guarantee
If your child decides music isn’t for them, there’s a money-back guarantee for the first month. After that, cancellation is completely free — just email us, and we’ll handle the rest. No hassle.
💬 Easy Enrollment
Spaces are limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis. To check availability, learn more, or enrol, please email us at:
info@soundfactorysw.com
ABOUT SOUND FACTORY SCHOOLS DIRECTOR
GEORGE SHELTON
Building on a passion for music and a career expanding over more than a decade in education, George has taken on a variety of roles within primary and secondary schools working within mainstream and special education. From running music therapeutic interventions, to qualifying and teaching as a secondary school music teacher, George has delivered music lessons taking on various styles and group sizes. From winning music awards, mentoring bands on to win competitions, to mixing and mastering their music, George has experience in many fields.
He has taken on artist development work outside of education working at the Barbican Theatre, managing bands, running Sound Factory’s promotional arm of the company, and has spent years playing in touring indie rock/pop bands. Songs he has written have seen both TV and Radio play, as well as BBC sessions and festival stages across the UK. He has a wide range of knowledge from working with some of the UK’s best producers and engineers and has recorded in some of the most historic and prestigious studios around. George now runs Sound Factory, putting on; festivals gigs, working in schools, and focuses on creating life changing moments for people in music. Because “talent lives everywhere but opportunity needs building - Sound Factory does just that”.
ABOUT THE ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR
John Cornfield has produced and engineered some of the biggest names in music - Muse, Oasis, Robert Plant, Supergrass, Stone Roses, The Verve and many more. You name them, he’s worked with them, mostly at the legendary Sawmills Studio in Cornwall.
From decades working in the music industry and across dozens of studios up and down the country, John brings with him an abundance of experience and knowledge that few could match.
John is an integral part of the Sound Factory team, working with us on events we put on as well as advising us on the best recording equipment available. John informs us of best practice when mixing and mastering the music we record. Our sound factory studio (which students part of our ‘Year 4 project’ visit) will be heavily influenced by John’s guidance over time, so that we can give students the best experience and mixes possible.
