University’s support is music to the ears of studio owner

The owner of a popular recording studio and music venue in the city has found a new home for his business after being supported by the University of Derby.

Jay Dean’s Dubrek Studios, which is currently based in Becket Street, has to relocate from its current home.

After struggling to find a suitable new space, the university offered Jay the lease of the ground floor of its building at 67 Bridge Street for up to three years.

Now, Jay has plans to use the building as a studio, rehearsal space, as well as a gallery, café and gig venue.

He said: “We’re very pleased and excited that the University of Derby has been able to offer us new premises at a very critical time for us.

“Going forward, this means we will be able to improve and expand our offer with an increased capacity performance space, a gallery and a kitchen facility.

“In addition, opportunities now exist to collaborate with our new neighbours at Banks Mill Studios, and with academics from the University of Derby, including its School of Arts, to develop a programme of student services.

“Our goal is to provide an essential creative hub for Derby in Bridge Street, and I am very much looking forward to seeing how this progresses and develops.”

John Crossley, head of discipline – music and performing arts at the University of Derby, said: “We are really pleased to be able to play our part in ensuring that this important, thriving, local business has a future in Derby.

“This exciting development will create fantastic opportunities for our students in terms of work experience, mentoring and shadowing as well as industry-based research.

“We see this as a true synergy of education and real-world experience, which is so important in equipping our graduates for their future careers.”

David McGravie, interim pro vice-chancellor dean of the College of Arts, Humanities and Education, said: “We are committed to supporting the long-term cultural vibrancy of the city, which Dubrek Studios plays a role in, and are therefore delighted to be able to help Jay find new premises.

“We look forward to seeing his plans come to fruition and working with him to deliver exciting opportunities for our students going forwards.”