STUDENTS learned from the best when Geordie guitar legend Mark Knopfler opened a £500,000 music studio yesterday.

The former Dire Straits frontman, now pursuing a solo career, visited Newcastle University's music department to open its sound studio.

Equipped with the latest digital and recording gadgets, as well as three advanced work stations and five practice rooms, the studio stands in what was once a store room.

Surveying the impressive array of equipment, Knopfler said: "It's fantastic to see this very tangible demonstration of the university's commitment to ensuring its students have a head start in one of the fastest growing and most demanding industries in the world. By investing in these up-to-the-minute facilities, students have a chance to combine their talent and creativity as performers with a sound knowledge of production and recording technology."

Knopfler is an honorary graduate of the university and was awarded an honorary doctor of music in 1993.

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