At HSDC we have a number of highly-skilled, dedicated and passionate staff.
They go above and beyond to help our students reach their full potential. We want to shout about these integral members of our HSDC community, so every month we will be finding out about the people behind our teaching excellence with our ‘Staff in the Spotlight’ feature.
This month we are recognising Jonny Callender, who is Course Manager for the UAL Level 4 Professional Diplomas in Music Performance and Production at our South Downs Campus.
How long have you worked at the College?
I have worked at HSDC for 25 years.
Why did you choose the subject that you teach?
I am a professional touring musician and audio production specialist so it makes sense.
What was your journey/training before coming to HSDC?
I started out training in Sonar (underwater sound) and Hydrographical Survey. Add that to being a working musician and the audio specialism became a natural progression. I did much of my PGCE in the back of tour buses travelling around Europe and America (not very Rock’n’Roll).
Do you practice the subject you teach outside of work?
Indeed I do. I run my own audio production company and recording studio recording, producing and mixing original artists. I play drums for French band CURL based in Marseille and Nice on the French Riviera, although through lockdown visits and shows have been minimal. I have performed in several original bands over the years with my main success coming through CRANES.. lots of albums and fun times touring.
What is the highlight of your role at HSDC?
Every day is a highlight when I see young artists developing….and I can steal new fresh ideas from them!!! he he
What kind of careers have your students gone on to do?
Broadcast Engineers, Tour Managers, A&R Reps, Studio Engineers, Events Co-ordinators… even record shop owners.
What is something about your job that people don’t know?
I was one of the original team that built our nationally recognised Music department and I am very proud of that.
What three words would your students use to describe you?
‘In The Pocket’
How do you relax outside of work?
Basketball, Beer and Pompey FC.