Tony Platt, Philip Cook, Steve Levine and Jon Thornton
UK - Budding sound engineer/producer Philip Cook is the second recipient of the Music Producers Guild Prize, which was launched last year to reward the most promising student to graduate from the LIPA (Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts) Sound Technology degree course.

The prize was presented by MPG chairman Steve Levine and MPG director Tony Platt during LIPA's annual graduation ceremony, which took place on 29 July. Also present was LIPA lead patron Sir Paul McCartney.

The aim of the Music Producers Guild Prize is to recognise the student who, in the opinion of his or her tutors, has shown the most exceptional talent, initiative, commitment and consideration to the art of music recording and production.

Jon Thornton, who heads LIPA's three year BA (Hons) Sound Technology course, says, "We chose Philip because he has shown enormous dedication, particularly during the last year of his degree. He was very willing to engage with external projects and gained practical experience by working alongside other engineers, as well as tackling his own recording projects. Philip truly understands what it takes to be a producer in today's world, where those who wish to pursue this career path have to find their own opportunities as well as delivering great results."

Since moving to Liverpool to study for his degree Philip Cook has completed work experience assignments in a number of recording facilities including Gigant Studio in Norway. He has also worked with many new and upcoming artists including Untouched, Lyra Jay, Katrina Heenan, Ben Noke and Mari J°rgensen.

"Music has always played such an important part of my life, and I feel honoured to have received such a fantastic award," he says.

(Jim Evans)


Latest Issue. . .