Elbow frontman Guy Garvey to become university professor

Elbow frontman Guy Garvey is branching out in a new career direction – academia.

The singer is joining the Manchester Writing School at Manchester Metropolitan University as a visiting professor of songwriting, the institution has announced.

As part of his role, Garvey will offer a masterclass in writing for music later this year, the university said.

He said: “I’m really looking forward to working with young songwriters at Manchester Metropolitan University. I’ve never had a conversation with another writer that hasn’t in some way informed my own work.”

He added that he had “been lucky enough to learn from some of the best ever” citing names such as Robert Plant, Sir Elton John, Lianne La Havas and Peter Gabriel.

“Those are some names people will know. I’m looking forward to working with names that everyone will come to know in a city that has nurtured some of the very best.”

With Elbow – whose hits include One Day Like This and Magnificent (She Says) – Garvey has picked up accolades including Ivor Novello and Brit awards, and the Mercury Music Prize.

The Bury musician also presents a weekly show on BBC Radio 6 Music, and in 2015 released his debut solo album – Courting the Squall.

In 2012, he was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Arts by Manchester Metropolitan.

Poet Adam O’Riordan, academic director of Manchester Writing School said: “Guy joining the Manchester Writing School feels very special. And we are all delighted to welcome him home.

“As the foremost lyricist of his generation and one of our city’s most celebrated and well-loved native sons, he will bring a wealth of experience, passion and wisdom which will no doubt have a huge influence on the culture of the Manchester Writing School and the unique creative atmosphere that exists here in the city.”