A University of the West of Scotland (UWS) graduate has been named in IQ Magazine’s New Bosses, recognising 20 of the most promising 30-and-unders in the international live music business.

Ellen McEleney, who graduated from the BA (Hons) Commercial Music programme at UWS in 2019, attributes her positive experience on the degree course with her success at DF Concerts, where she works as a promoter.

Talking about the course, Ellen said: “I had a fantastic experience at UWS, and I credit that in large part to the exceptional lecturers on the Commercial Music Business programme.

“That’s where I really started to understand the live side of the industry – and I’ve never looked back.

“I couldn’t recommend the course more highly to anyone looking to explore a career in the Music Industry.”

IQ Magazine’s New Bosses is recognition of some of the most exceptional executives in the live entertainment industry and features an interview with Ellen, where she describes her first steps in the industry and highlights to date.

As DF Concerts’ first home-grown female promoter, Ellen now leads an artist roster including the likes of Chappell Roan, Alex Warren, Myles Smith and Reneé Rapp.

Ellen undertook an internship with DF Concerts in 2019 and thanks academic staff for their support in her career success.

“UWS lecturer Allan Dumbreck played a pivotal role in one of the biggest decisions of my career,” continued Ellen. “After earning my degree, I had a job offer from DF Concerts but was still deliberating whether to stay on for my fourth year to complete my Honours.

“Allan gave me the confidence to seize the opportunity in front of me, assuring me that the University would always welcome me back should I wish to return. His encouragement made what felt like a daunting decision far less intimidating.”

Ellen also paid tribute to former UWS lecturer Jim Prime who passed away recently.

“I also have the utmost admiration for the late, great Jim Prime,” continued Ellen. “As a student, I had many memorable conversations with Jim, both during and after my time at UWS.

“His module on Music and Alzheimer’s came at a particularly poignant point in my life, as my grandmother was experiencing the condition. Being able to draw on what I had learned in those classes and apply even a small part of the healing power of music in real life was an invaluable gift during that time.

“Years later, I had the privilege of crossing paths with Jim again while working on Deacon Blue shows. He was a true legend – an inspiration to so many – and one of the kindest people you could ever meet, always so generous with his time.”

Read the full interview with Ellen on the IQ Magazine website.

Find out more about the Commercial Music degree at UWS.