Carol Main

Carol Main MBE tells why she chose Edinburgh and how her degree, which focused on Music and English, helped her achieve her career aspirations.

Your time at the University

I chose Edinburgh as it is a great city to live in and for the University’s reputation in Music and English. In addition, it wasn’t too far from home in Fife, and my friends were coming to the University.

During my time at the University I took part in lots of music related activities – University Symphony Orchestra, University Opera Club, Experimental Arts Society, Music Society choir soloist and the Edinburgh University Renaissance Singers a couple of years after graduation.

My favourite memories include the (now long gone) waitressed lunch at Teviot, rehearsing in Alison House by torchlight during miners’ strikes and lots of snow.

I chose Edinburgh as it is a great city to live in and for the University’s reputation in Music and English.

Tell us about your Experiences since leaving the University

I came to university with aim of going into arts admin and took subjects that supported that aim, Music and English. I have a slight regret it wasn’t available as an Honours degree, but it hasn’t mattered in my career.

The main jobs I have had during my career have been Director of National Association of Youth Orchestras and Director of Live Music Now Scotland, both based in Edinburgh. 

I sit on various boards, including Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, Association of British Orchestras, Traditional Music Forum, Traditional Arts and Culture of Scotland and was awarded an MBE in the 2015 New Year’s Honours list for services to music.

Alumni wisdom

Don’t use the University dentist!