Alistair Grant

I started my career in the global electronics and computer industries, but my passion had always been music. I stepped back from big corporate life to undertake my Masters in Music Industry Management & Promotion on a one year sabbatical, intending to establish my own limited company when I graduated to do gig promotion, band management and vintage vinyl record dealing, which I subsequently did. More recently I have retired from vintage vinyl record dealing to focus on musicology, music journalism, gig promotion and publishing articles about the music industry. At the age of 65 I will be embarking on a PhD. 

What are you doing now? 

Gig promotion, musicology, music journalism, published author.

What was it about Northumbria that made you decide to study here?

I was working and living in Newcastle on a Monday to Friday basis when I was made redundant. I decided to take a one year sabbatical to do my Masters at Northumbria.

What was it like studying at Northumbria?

I enjoyed interacting with much younger fellow students as I was 53.

What was the best thing about your course?

The overall university experience interacting with university staff and my fellow students.

How did studying at Northumbria help you achieve your career goals/ give your career an edge?

It gave me an academic basis for what I wanted to do.

Which skills/knowledge did you learn on your course that you use most now throughout your career?

Knowledge of the music industry.

What did you enjoy most about your time at Northumbria University?

The campus and the city of Newcastle.

What advice would you give somebody who is considering studying at Northumbria?

Go for it! It is a fantastic experience!

How would you describe your time at Northumbria in three words?

Fun, demanding, educational.

For more information about me visit: 

• LinkedIn

Profile added June 2025.