A specialist music production business based in Test Valley has been awarded a £750 Business Incentive Grant from Test Valley Borough Council to support its launch and early growth.
MW Composer, founded by Michael Walters, creates original music for the film, television and advertising industries. Michael, a former Director of Music for the British Army Air Corps, left the military in 2015 and has since worked in a range of roles. After years of composing part-time, growing demand led him to take the leap and turn it into a full-time business.
MW Composer operates across three areas – composing to brief for music publishers, scoring bespoke soundtracks for independent films, and building a boutique catalogue of music for the Defence sector.
Since launching, Michael’s work has attracted significant attention. He has already received six ‘Best Score’ awards on the film festival circuit, and his music has been licensed for use in shows across Netflix, Apple TV+, Prime, BBC, ITV and other major broadcasters.
The council grant will go towards studio equipment and ensure Michael can continue producing while travelling.
Speaking about the award, Michael said:
“I’m really pleased to finally be able to turn my love of music into a business. I have always enjoyed composing, and after years of doing it alongside other work, it feels incredibly rewarding to now focus on it full-time as my own business.
“This grant from the council is a real help as I build my catalogue and prepare for some exciting opportunities ahead.”
Mid Test Ward Councillor Alison Johnston added:
“It’s inspiring to see someone with Michael’s background and talent take that step and bring something unique to the local economy.
“The Business Incentive Grant is here to give entrepreneurs a helping hand as they get established, and I’m really pleased we’ve been able to support him on this journey.”
Test Valley Borough Council runs a range of support programmes for local businesses. The Business Incentive Grant is available to new businesses in the borough and must be applied for within eight weeks of trading. The funding is awarded after the business has been up and running for six months.
For more information, visit www.testvalley.gov.uk.