Paolo to fund class

Paisley superstar Paolo Nutini hopes to help develop the next generation of songwriters with a new scholarship at Paisley’s university.

The New Shoes singer has teamed up with the University of West Scotland to fund a place on the UWS Music Masters programme from autumn next year.

Applications will be accepted from across the world and Paolo will fund the place and also hold a workshop during the course.

Course leader David Scott said: “Our Masters in Music is always full of talented young people and this initiative will help a talented songwriter to undertake studies with us at the university, regardless of their financial background.

“Paolo is a huge inspiration to young people in Paisley and beyond and we’re expecting great excitement across the university when he comes in to teach - from students from all disciplines.

“We are opening the doors now to applications from worthy candidates and we’re looking forward to a talent search like no other, assessing candidates on their experience or academic qualifications and their portfolio of work.”

UWS Principal Prof Craig Mahoney added: “The opportunity provided by this song writing scholarship in our School of Media, Culture and Society will allow further enhancement of our long tradition in the music industry.

“This collaboration with Paolo extends the breadth of work we currently offer, but significantly allows us to help create new talent in the creative industries.”