Testimonials

Graeme was my technician during my masters degree and his advice and help were some of the most valuable things I got from that experience. His support ultimately helped me move from student to a professional artist. Beyond just technical support, Graeme put in so much time and support towards helping with artistic support and the vision of the piece. Ultimately, his contribution to my work and practice was transformative. I also worked with Graeme professionally after graduating, developing audio visual work as part of the Design and Performance Lab and on X-Body by Dr Zhi Xu. During this time I got to see that Graeme brings these same qualities to not just his role as a department technician, but also as a technical consultant and collaborator.
Kat Macdonald Sound and Performance Artist
I have now worked with Graeme for a number of years first as a member of the IST and then as our Creative Arts specialist on the Creative Arts Steering Board as well as the IST's Annual Conference team. His specialist knowledge and expertise has been appreciated by all. In addition to his excellent work with both students and technical staff at Brunel, Graeme has also contributed to the national agenda. The IST Executive Board recognised these achievements with the award of Fellowship in 2025. Graeme continues to give his time freely to the IST, adding to our reputation and success. We warmly thank him accordingly.
Mr Terry Croft, MBE, FIScT, CSci Chair/CEO Institue of Science and Technololgy
I would like to nominate Graeme for the Ken Darby-Dowman Memorial Prize in recognition of his exceptional contribution to the student experience. His sincere dedication, approachability, and willingness to go above and beyond have had a significant positive impact on me as a student at Brunel. Whether through academic support, pastoral care, or creating opportunities for personal and professional development, Graeme consistently demonstrates a genuine commitment to student success and wellbeing. His influence has made a lasting difference not only to me, but to many other students, and it is deeply appreciated. Graeme has had a particularly positive impact on my mental health and confidence. He creates an environment where I feel comfortable being my authentic self and always knows how to lift people's spirits while remaining a thoughtful and wise tutor. On days when I struggled to smile, he was able to make me laugh and feel supported. He is truly the backbone of the Theatre Department, and his dedication, hard work, and care for students are invaluable. The department would not be the same without him, and I believe he thoroughly deserves recognition for the extraordinary contribution he makes to student life at Brunel. ."
Juhi Kumra Project Manager C-Change West London
"In our over two decades as Associate Artists at Brunel University, Piano Circus has been fortunate to have Graeme Shaw as our technical support within the music/arts department. Graeme is a calm, helpful, and astute technician who has enabled us to give numerous successful concerts, workshops and classes encompassing varied technical requirements. Piano Circus uses electronic keyboards/amplified grand pianos with an often complex system of balance and monitors which can be difficult to balance and setup, but these challenges have proved no problem for Graeme to organise in a range of unusual sites and venues across the university campus. Due to a recent building closure, a few weeks ago we had to move a performance to a university lecture theatre - unfazed, Graeme proceeded to transform this rather unlikely venue for live music into a warm and positive space with excellent sound. The audience, performers, and the university department organisers were all delighted with the results."
Piano Circus
"I have worked with Graeme in many capacities for about twenty years. He has managed a great many live performances, recordings, and conference presentations with technical support and creative problem-solving. His work is always of the highest professional standard and executed calmly. Graeme’s own creative work is thoughtful and innovative, exploring the meeting points of music, dance, theatre and film."
Colin Riley Composer
Working with Graeme during my time at Brunel was an absolute honour and pleasure. He provided outstanding technical support for my PhD research, including the presentation of my work X-Body at The Place as part of Resolution 2019. Throughout our collaboration, Graeme demonstrated exceptional professionalism, genuine passion for the work, and unwavering support. I very much hope there will be future opportunities to collaborate again in digital performance.
Dr Zhi Xu | BA, MA, PhD, FHEA Senior Lecturer in Dance - Bath Spa University
"Thank you so much for the workshop! We really appreciate you taking time out of your busy day to teach us. I learned so much and its nice to know That I’m not rubbish at Logic Pro."
Music (BA)
Music Student
"Dear Graeme We just wanted to thank you for being so helpful with our final production. You kept us sane many times throughout the process and our piece would not be what it is without you! Thank you for helping us get this far, you are a star! From your two faves, Immi & Sophie"
Theatre (BA)
Theatre Students
"Thank you so much! I really appreciate You giving us everthing with us I learned so much new things and it was already taught you the speed up my mxining times Really looking forward to more sessions!"
Music (BA)
Music Student
"Dear Graeme Thank you for being a lovely and supportive staff member at Brunel. You have really gone above and beyond to help me get my work done. I have learnt so much from you which I really appreciate."
Music (BA)
Music Student