ICMP's Jan Pawlikowski secures role with Headline Music Studios

Congratulations to ICMP alumnus Jan Pawlikowski on securing a new role with Headline Music Studios in Cambridge. 

Jan, a BA Creative Music Production alumnus, was referred to Headline Music Studios by Ace, ICMP’s Head of Industry Partnerships and Business Development, after impressing during a recording session on an ICMP visit from University of Southern California (USC) Maymester students.  

His role involves assisting with various tasks such as mic setups, patching analogue gear, studio maintenance, and editing audio in Pro Tools. 

Commenting, Jan said: "Getting the role was a stroke of luck really. Back when I was studying at ICMP, I was involved in all sorts of projects, especially recording and mixing for other students."

"One day, ICMP approached me and a few other students with an exciting proposition - to mix songs recorded by ICMP and USC exchange students at the Abbey Road Studios."

The session had some tricky issues, but thanks to my Pro Tools skills, I saved the day. Ace, was super grateful, so I decided to ask him about any studio gigs. He hooked me up with Piers [Mortimer], and that's how I landed the gig with Headline."

Jan's responsibilities have since expanded to include working as an engineer on client recording session as well as bringing in his own projects. 

Some of the big name artists to pass through the studios include Ace, Shane Embury, and John Cooke from Napalm Death, Peredur ap Gwynedd from Pendulum, guitarist Ben Smith and Sophie Burrell, a prominent guitarist and Instagram influencer.

Piers Mortimer, Headline Music Studios Owner (pictured above), said: "I know Ace from working with him in the industry on past records and music projects. Also I work for PRS Guitars and we have connections with Ace there."

After an interview with him, I could see Jan had potential, and offered him work experience here at the studio to help him gain experience. Now moving forward. I can use Jan here at the studio as one of the Assistant Engineers. 

Ace said: "I was impressed by Jan when he was mixing the USC Maymester sessions back in 2022 and thought his talents would be a great fit with Headline."

"We're proud to be partners with PRS Guitars where Headline Studios is based. This opportunity ably demonstrates the great industry connections network we have here at ICMP in supporting students on their career journeys."

Continuing, Jan said:

Joining Headline has been an invaluable stepping stone for my career in the industry. The wealth of knowledge and experience I've gained in this professional studio setting has been unparalleled. Also, I made some great connections in the industry."

Jan has also worked  with legendary figures like Paul Jones, a harmonica virtuoso and former singer of Rolling Stones before Mick Jagger, as well as collaborated with Simon Efemey, a renowned metal producer. 

In addition to these big names, Headline has had the privilege of recording artists such as Deep Purple, Don Airey and Friends, Jakko Jakszyk (King Crimson), members of Jamiroquai, including Rob Harris, and Bernie Marsden from Whitesnake, among many other incredibly talented musicians.

Well done to Jan and visit Headline Music Studios to find out more.