Dutch university offers heavy metal degrees at “The Metal Factory”

Eindhoven’s Summa College is breaking new ground in music education with its unique department, ‘The Metal Factory,’ offering specialized degrees in heavy metal music performance. The program has gained international attention for its comprehensive approach to metal music education, including specialized vocal training in the art of growling.

The three-year program covers various aspects of metal music performance, including:

• Vocal techniques (including growling)
• Guitar, bass, and drum performance
• Keyboard skills
• Music industry entrepreneurship

According to instructors, the secret to mastering metal vocals starts simply: “You start with a sigh or a groan and you use your vocal cords to gradually transform it into a primal scream.“

The Metal Factory boasts an impressive faculty of 14 industry professionals, including notable names like:

• Robin Zielhorst (former Cynic bassist)
• Bart Hennephof and Stef Broks (Textures members)
• Merel Bexhtold (ex-Delain guitarist)
• Jacques De Haard (sound engineer)

Graduates have found success in various career paths, from music composition and production to teaching and therapy. Some have continued their education at prestigious institutions like the Conservatory of Amsterdam.

The Metal Factory will host an open day at Dynamo Eindhoven on January 26 for prospective students. You can find more details here.