TALENTED QMC teacher Simon Barnard is now demonstrating his ability as a musician, composer, producer and teacher to a wider audience after being invited by Guitar Techniques, the world’s foremost guitar education magazine, to write a monthly column for 16 months on psychedelic rock.

For Simon, who has previously turned down many tours in favour of his teaching role and family commitments, the opportunity has been surreal.

“I used to read the magazine religiously when I was a music student so it’s a dream to now be writing for them, alongside top guitarists, educators and some of my idols too.”

Simon’s first article on The Beatles hit the shops and app stores worldwide in December and Status Quo, Traffic and Jimi Hendrix are among the artists that will feature in future editions of the magazine.

Simon’s role for Guitar Techniques involves researching a specified artist and then producing an article on their history.

He then has to compose and notate around 60 bars of music before producing and recording the full track and backing track to go on to the cover CD and digital recordings for the online editions of the magazine.

Committed teacher Simon added: “I’m genuinely rewarded every day as part of my teaching role at QMC. Last year the college was made a ‘Music Mark’ school member in recognition of providing high quality music education and I’m thrilled to be part of the fantastic department at the college. 

“Being a published writer alongside my teaching role makes up for all of those gigs I’ve reluctantly turned down.”

Tickets for upcoming performances featuring QMC A level and BTEC music students are available and include Legally Blonde The Musical from February 6 to 9 and Music Showcase Concerts from February 25 to 27. Call 01256 418318 for more information.