Two Perth students awarded John Preston Music Awards and funding boost to help with musical careers

dailyrecord.co.uk:

A pair of Fair City students have received a financial boost to help move their musical careers forward.Kirsty Stewart and Lola Elvira Dorado, of UHI Perth, have each been awarded a John Preston Music Award.Both students received a prize of £500 in recognition of their achievements.Kirsty, the John Preston Music Business Award recipient, graduated with a music business BA (Hons) and now works in Glasgow.She said: “It is a privilege to be the recipient of the John Preston Music Business Award 2022.“Studying during lockdown was one of the most academically challenging things I have ever done and I am grateful to my lecturers for getting me through it and for recognising my efforts.“I’d like to say a special thanks to Mr Preston’s widow, Roz Preston, for setting up this award in his name.

Since receiving this award, I have secured a job with a record label in Glasgow.”Lola, the John Preston International Music Award recipient, is studying for a popular music BA (Hons).“She said: “I can’t thank Rosalind Preston and the Liam Colgan Music Fund enough for the receipt of this award.“I knew very little about John Preston prior to receiving the International Music Award and, having read a little more about him, I am truly honoured to be in receipt of a grant in memory of such a notable music industry professional.“Also, having spoken to my programme leader about Liam Colgan, I understand he was a great songwriter and guitar player – contributing to many student projects in his time at the UHI.“I feel humbled to accept this award, which also recognises grass-roots creative practice at the UHI and serves to also commemorate a student in my position.“Without this contribution, I would not have been able to tour internationally this