FOUR promising young musicians have been awarded the Paolo Nutini Songwriting Scholarship for the first time ever.

The award has been given to students Bethany Ferrie, Christian McCabe, David Grimason and Steven Allan who are studying the MA Music programme at the University of the West of Scotland (UWS).

The scholarship is sponsored by UWS honorary doctor Paolo Nutini. 

Previously, it has only been awarded to one student but the Paisley-born musician has agreed to change the format this year in recognition of the challenges facing musicians in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. 

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Jo Collinson Scott, MA Music programme leader, said: "The changes in format means that more students can benefit more directly, and swiftly, from the benefits of a scholarship; and it truly is a monumental change.

"We are hugely grateful to Paolo, who has long been a tireless supporter of, and advocate for, emerging musicians and the UWS MA Music course.

"The scholarship is highly competitive, and all four recipients are highly deserving.

"I have no doubt that they all have bright futures within the music industry."

The Masters programme at UWS has four different pathways which are Songwriting, Sound Production, Industries, and Music, for those with a broad interest in the creative, technical and industrial elements of music.

Students on the programme have access to industry-standard equipment and are taught by academics including members of bands such as Deacon Blue, Love and Money and the Pearlfishers.

You can find out more about the course HERE.