Former Stone Roses guitarist to mentor Hull College students

READY TO INSPIRE: Aziz Ibrahim

By Simon Bristow, Co-Editor

Former Stone Roses guitarist Aziz Ibrahim is set to inspire and mentor a select group of students in an event at Hull College later this month.

Ibrahim will be working with and playing alongside students – all of whom have a passion for music and creativity – in what is being billed as a “once in a lifetime opportunity” on Thursday, April 25.

Among the students participating in the exclusive event are music performance and production students Bailey Parr, Joshua Fletcher, William Hawksworth, Jack Christopher, and Harry Lockwood. Students from diverse disciplines such as digital media Production, art and design, electrotechnical, carpentry and Joinery and health and social care, will also have the unique opportunity to collaborate directly with the talented 60-year-old musician.

Ibrahim said: “I am honoured to have the opportunity to work with and mentor the talented students at Hull College. Music education is not only essential for technical skill development but also for fostering creativity and passion.

“I am excited to share my experiences and insights with the next generation of musicians, and I look forward to witnessing their growth and innovation.”

Ibrahim, who replaced John Squire on six-string duties in the Roses and played with the group until it split in 1996, also worked extensively with the Manchester band’s frontman Ian Brown during his solo career. He has also worked with Simply Red, Paul Weller and Hot Chocolate during a stellar career.

Now established as a creative figure on the British alternative rock and roots music scenes, his distinctive guitar skills have garnered global acclaim, showcasing his unique fusion of progressive rock and Asian Blues through his solo work.

He is also a passionate supporter of music education initiatives.

Abi Smith, executive director of learner services at the college, said: “We are delighted to be welcoming Aziz Ibrahim back to Hull College later this month. He put on a fantastic and thoroughly informative talk as part of our Student CPD Week in November last year, and we can’t wait to see him again.

“His mentorship will undoubtedly inspire our students to reach new heights in their musical endeavours and personal development. Aziz's dedication to music education and his remarkable career in the industry make him an ideal role model for our students, and we are grateful for the opportunity for them to learn from such a distinguished and talented musician.”

Ibrahim’s commitment to community causes, including guitar lessons and mentoring sessions for prisoners in a re-integration programme and providing music therapy for hospice patients, reflects his dedication to giving back to society.

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth recognised his contributions to Britain’s economy, culture, and the music industry in a ceremony at Buckingham Palace in 2005 along with Brian May, Jeff Beck, the Bee Gees, and many others.

He is also a recipient of the UK Jinnah award for outstanding achievement in music.