Mr A Cardwell

Head of Music

‘I think music in itself is healing. It's an explosive expression of humanity. It's something we are all touched by. No matter what culture we're from, everyone loves music.’ - Billy Joel

I can trace my first ever passion for music to my early school days. Hours spent smashing on drum kits and shaking the room with electric guitars lit the flame for my passion and set the stage for an incredible career in the industry. I left school knowing that from then on I only wanted to study one thing and so went on to Kendal College to study an extended diploma followed by a bachelor's degree in popular music performance at the Royal Northern College Of Music in Manchester. 

Since graduating I have performed at countless venues and festivals all over the UK and abroad. My focus has mainly been on writing original music and over the years I have written and released a wide range across various styles and in many different bands. This in turn led me to develop an additional passion for music technology and electronic music production which I currently champion at Kings Warrington.

It is no coincidence that my memories of inspiring musical experiences at school led me to the decision to become a teacher myself. Every day I feel incredibly grateful to have a job which enables me to share my passion with the next generation, empowering and inspiring performers, producers and composers to realise their creative potential. I am especially proud to work in a school where creativity and expression is nurtured, encouraged and celebrated. 

Music at Kings transcends far beyond the classroom, with choirs, bands, musicals and personal projects, students make meaningful musical connections in order to see it not just as an outlet for expression but a viable career prospect. 

At the beating heart of the music department is passion, expression and creativity shown by our incredible students who every day find new ways to inspire, delight and amaze me.