Optimistic, even then : the creation of two performing arts institutes

This is the story of how two internationally unique institutions have come to exist -- The British Record Industry Trust School in London and The Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts in Liverpool.

Hundreds of pupils and students have already experienced what they have to offer.

The combined cost was twenty million pounds or thereabouts and these two institutions are said to be exemplars of successful partnerships between the public and private sector.

This book is the story of what happened to the person who watched the eighties' film, Fame, and who later stood on the stage of The Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts, leading its inauguration.

He was flanked by two household names, without whom he would not have been there: Sir Paul McCartney and Sir George Martin.

Everyone else was less known, if known at all, but, without them, the dream would have remained a dream.

There were many unsung heroes and heroines (aside from a few false friends) who did the work, made the telephone call or wrote the letter.

It is not an entirely happy story, but then adversity is inevitable.

It has the potential to crush you or make you stronger -- if you survive.

This is not a sad story either. It has the added benefit of being practical too. Above all, this is a story of endeavour and is dedicated to anyone who starts with that blank sheet of paper.

As Lord Puttnam told the author: 'Students should have many dreams and as few illusions as possible'.