A tribute to David Ward, Founder of Technology in Music Education (TiME)
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of David Ward, the founder and Managing Director of Technology in Music Education (TiME). David dedicated his life to music, and his contributions to music education and the creative use of music technology have had an enormously positive impact.
David established TiME in 2019, along with Richard Llewellyn and Kate Rounding. TiME has a clear mission to unite music industry professionals, music educators, and the informal music education sector in utilising music technology in education. TiME aims to enhance equitable access to all aspects of music teaching, learning, composition, and performance through collaborations with experienced teachers, music leaders, and organisations. David's vision and leadership were instrumental in the success of TiME, which has delivered music education resources, conferences, and technology showcases to create awareness and support the innovative use of music technology.
David had a remarkable career; with 25 years as a singer and entertainer, three years as a club and concert promoter, and 25 years as a recording studio owner, manager, and sound engineer, he left an indelible mark on the industry. In 1976, David founded Gateway Studios, a prominent recording facility. He later established the Gateway School of Recording, Music Technology, and Music Business Studies, Europe's first independent music industry school. David's pioneering efforts and innovative teaching methods set new standards in music education. David was also the founder and Executive Director of JAMES (Joint Audio Media Education Support) who accredit a range of University courses, including Music Production and Sound Engineering. JAMES is a recognised Professional, Statutory and Regulatory Body (PSRB) for undergraduate HE courses for the music and sound industry.
David actively contributed to the Music Education Council, focussing on the use of music technology and contributing to the New National Plan for Music Education (NPME 2022). David's passion for education led him to consult with education authorities, government departments, and institutions worldwide on course design, teaching skills, and education facility development. Amongst his many achievements David was the Education Director of APRS (Association of Professional Recording Services), a visiting Fellow of Kingston University and a visiting Professor at the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki. His insights and knowledge shaped the field of music education, and he was recently honoured as a Fellow of The Royal Society of Arts.
David is remembered for his warmth, generosity and kindness. His wealth of experience and deep connections across the music industry enabled him to bridge gaps and foster connectivity. He was a guiding light in the field of music technology education, leaving an enduring legacy that will continue to shape the future of music education in the UK and beyond.