June 2023

Dorothea Papadaki

BA (Hons) Popular Music 2019

1. Tell us about yourself. 

I am Dorothéa, a passionate singer/songwriter and vocal coach. I have been performing for around 6 years professionally in Cambridge and London and I have a BA Hons in Popular Music from ARU and an MMus in Popular Music Performance from The Institute of Contemporary Music Performance in London. Over the past few years, I have been performing with the band that I formed - Dora and the Explorers. We have had the opportunity to perform at a few well-known festivals such as Big Weekend 2019 and some of the most famous venues in Cambridge, The Junction and Portland Arms, as well as performing as an acoustic act in small venues and events.

Furthermore, for the past few years, I have been releasing my original music, gaining huge support from other artists and fans on social media, which keeps me motivated throughout my music career. Some of my original tracks have been played across various radio stations around the UK, such as BBC Introducing, Cambridge 105 radio, and radio shows in other European countries. At the same time, I have been working on Airgigs while having a mini home studio in Cambridge, and last but not least, I am currently following my career in Music Teaching as well as Vocal Coaching.

2. What is your fondest memory of Anglia Ruskin University?

The lectures and live performances at the Mumford Theatre, the lunchtime concerts that we had the opportunity to join for free and all of my classmates and bandmates! Such an amazing time…

3. What has been your favourite job?

My favourite job has been teaching people vocals as well as being in a college supporting students in the music department, which is the best job ever! I am very determined to share my knowledge with music students and also gain new skills too. I find vocal coaching gives me excitement as I see students from different levels to develop. There is nothing better than this! 

4. In one word, how would you describe Anglia Ruskin University?

ARU was such a warm and friendly place. I really enjoyed my degree and found that the three years went by so quickly. There were always opportunities available and help on offer if you needed it.

5. How did your time at ARU help you?

My time at ARU gave me experience of being on stage and in the recording studios and helped me to make good connections and improve my networking skills.

6. What did you love about your chosen course?

I loved the ensembles, the performance opportunities in lectures and my one-to-one vocal lessons. 

7. What advice would you give to current students as they’re preparing to graduate?

Make the most of your time using the facilities available on campus and join as many events as you can as you'll miss that a lot once you leave!

8. What do you know now that you wish you had known whilst studying?

I wish I had known how many facilities were on offer at university that were free, as there really is limited time to access such good equipment and studios outside of it. I also wish I had made more of the student opportunities and discounts available to me.

9. Who was the biggest influence on your career?

The biggest influence on my career is Beyoncé. I was born the same day and month as her and so am trying to follow her path in the music industry.

10. What advice would you give your younger self?

Explore life, try different hobbies and travel more!

11. Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know.

I overthink a lot and I’m a perfectionist, which isn't always a good thing!

12. What’s next?

Currently, I'm focusing on following my music career and doing my music teacher training.