Callum Maciver

Biography

 

Callum Maciver is a composer, performer, and music educator whose work spans academic research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and community-engaged pedagogy. Holding a First Class BA (Hons) in Music Composition and a Master's Degree in Music Education, Maciver's practice is rooted in both theoretical precision and a commitment to artistic innovation.  

As the lead vocalist and co-founder of The Upsiders, a West Midlands-based ensemble renowned for its genre-fluid approach, Maciver performs alongside an eclectic lineup: Joe Taylor (bass), Ryan Middleton (percussion), Ian Todd (guitar), and Nathan De Broize King (keyboards). Formed during their university years, the band has cultivated a reputation as "fun personified"—a collective that defies stylistic boundaries, weaving funk, disco, pop, and experimental influences into a cohesive yet dynamic sound. Their 2020 album Reconnect, a multimedia narrative exploring the struggles of modern millennial connection, was collaboratively workshopped at Coventry University and recorded at Flipside Studios under the guidance of producer Matt Cotterill.  

The Upsiders have garnered significant recognition for their artistic contributions. In July 2018, they were named BBC Introducing Coventry & Warwickshire's 'Band of the Month', followed by a victory at the Godiva Calling competition that same year. They have graced multiple stages at the Godiva Festival, including the Main Stage, Acoustic Stage, and BBC Introducing platform. The band's cultural impact extends to collaborations with icons such as Neville Staple, with whom they performed to support Coventry's City of Culture 2021 bid. Their song Fly was licensed by Coventry University for promotional campaigns, underscoring their resonance within educational and civic spheres.  

Beyond performance, Maciver is an accomplished educator, delivering tailored music instruction through Beatbox Music Tuition in Rugby and Coventry City Council's community programs. His teaching philosophy emphasizes technical mastery, creative risk-taking, and the sociocultural role of music.  

By integrating scholarly, performative, and pedagogical practices, Callum Maciver exemplifies a holistic approach to contemporary musicianship—one that bridges the stage, the classroom, and the wider community.