Band Complete was an innovative educational project designed to bridge the gap between theory and practice in the Creative Media Industries. Conceptualized and created by C.Martinis and developed by SAE Athens, the project ran from 2010 to 2014 and aimed to immerse students in the professional life of a music artist. Through hands-on collaboration, it offered participants an invaluable opportunity to explore various facets of creative media production and publishing.
At its core, Band Complete challenged students from multiple disciplines to work together on a shared goal: producing and promoting a band. Music Business & Creative Industries students were tasked with managing the project, developing marketing strategies, and organizing a final showcase event. Advanced Audio Production students focused on recording, mixing, and mastering the band’s music while supporting event production and tackling other audio-related challenges. Students worked closely with their lecturers, project coordinators, and, when necessary, external collaborators to bring their ideas to life.
One of the project’s highlights was the involvement of renowned music producer Chris Tsangarides. Known for his work with legendary bands such as Judas Priest, Thin Lizzy, and Black Sabbath, Tsangarides brought his expertise and decades of industry experience to Band Complete. His guidance and mentorship provided students with unparalleled insights into the professional music world, elevating the project and inspiring participants to pursue excellence in their craft.
Over time, as SAE Athens expanded its creative media courses, the project evolved to incorporate contributions from additional departments. Students from Digital Film Making, 3D & Interactive Animation, Web Development, and Game Production were brought on board, reducing the need for external assistance and fostering synergies across disciplines. This multidisciplinary collaboration created a vibrant learning environment where skills and knowledge were shared, and a strong sense of community was built.
Band Complete provided students with practical education, valuable networking opportunities, and a deeper understanding of the creative media landscape. Though the project was discontinued in 2014, it remains a testament to the power of collaborative learning and the potential of creative education to inspire innovation.