Trystan Francis
Age: 31
I am originally from Coventry. My immediate family are all Princethorpians: My mum has recently retired from 30 years of being Director of Music; My dad taught the violin peripatetically and both my sister and I attended as students.
Currently I live in London. I work as a full time Mix Engineer, Music Programmer and Composer for Chris Egan Music, based at Abbey Road Studios.
When were you at Princethorpe:
I attended the college between 1995 and 1999 for my GCSEs and A-Levels, but since my mum had been Director of Music at the school since I was in nappies, I have spent most of my life there in one way or another. One of my earlier memories of the College was at the age of nine, being brought up from Our Lady’s Primary School down the road to play trumpet in the school production of Oklahoma.
What was the school like in your day?
A lot smaller. The encompassing grounds were the same size, but there were a lot less buildings and a lot less students. Everybody knew everyone else; it was like a big family.
How did Princethorpe affect the person you are today?
Fairly dramatically, I think. I had come from a state school in Coventry and it’s fair to say that I’d lost my way a little. Moving to Princethorpe was really a revelation in my life. The staff were so supportive and caring; it was an environment that really nurtured and encouraged. Hobbies and interests were met with facilities and development and everyone was always keen to help out and explain.
What advice would you give to your teenage self?
You don’t know best, listen to and learn from those who do.
School is easy compared to the rest of the world. Enjoy it!
Don’t be in such a rush to grow up.
Who or what has been the greatest influence on your life?
My family has really been the most important factor in my life. Supportive through thick and thin, utterly mad and wonderful at the same time!
What keeps you awake at night?
I’m generally unsettled by anything unknown. Whether it’s work-related or not, until I’m familiar with something new or different, I’ll be thinking about everything that can go wrong! But it does come in useful unravelling problems, so maybe it’s a good thing.
What has been your proudest moment/greatest achievement so far?
I can’t think of one specific thing out of so many amazing events, so I’m going to go with my work as a whole. I’m lucky enough to be based in the most famous recording studio in the world, writing, mixing and programming music for Film, TV and Theatre. I get to work with the best musicians in the country and listen to them performing my music. That’s always an amazing feeling.
What’s your biggest indulgence?
Gadgets! I’m a sucker for anything shiny and electronic. Especially if it has an apple on it!
If you had to have one last meal, what would it be?
At the moment, either an amazing Thai meal, or my Grandpa’s Under-Roast.
What is your favourite TV Show and why?
Currently, The Big Bang Theory. It’s really easy going humour and also quite informative!
If you could be anywhere right now, where would it be and who would be with you?
I’ve been having fantasies recently about beaches, spas and infinity pools surrounded by palm trees! And as long as there’s great company and conversation with plenty of laughs, then anybody can come along!
Lasting memories of Princethorpe:
The big Theatre Show every Christmas; the Christmas Fair; Poetry Picnics in the woods; Choir Tours.
Are you in touch with any other Old Princethorpians?
Yes, I’m still in touch with my close friends from Princethorpe.
Is there anyone you would like to track down?
Facebook has made finding old friends really easy!
