A single event can change the course of the rest of your life.

For Annie May Adams this occurred when her aunt gave her a second-hand guitar and a self-tutor music book.

Seven years later she is recording her first EP, has received a scholarship from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, and has been scouted by America’s version of TV show, The Voice.

“I am very busy at the moment”, laughed Annie. “I work part time in Marks and Spencer, gig in the evenings and fit my university work in-between.”

Annie, 20, who has grown up in Romford, was immersed in music from a young age.

Her mum would play Eva Cassidy, while her dad was a fan of Johnny Cash and The Beatles.

Annie said: “I listened to music on the radio and my sister went through a Green Day phase.

“I was definitely influenced by a wide range of musical styles.”

After learning the basics on her guitar, Annie quickly advanced her skills and by 16 she was writing her own music.

“I was shy and never let people hear my songs, but then one day I thought, just go for it.”

Annie found a manager and started gigging locally, writing music about things she had experienced.

This resonated with her audience and when she put examples of her “country acoustic” music on Twitter she gained a strong online following.

Annie discovered her music was most popular in America and soon after she was scouted for The Voice in America.

However, they had not realised Annie was British and, due to work permits, she couldn’t accept.

She said: “I couldn’t go over, but I was proud to be considered.”

Annie threw herself into her EP and university course at Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts, in Wood Green, London.

When the opportunity came up to audition for a scholarship to the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, she made a spur of the moment decision to try.

Four days later she found out she had been accepted.

“I really want to go and I am really excited about it.

I deferred my place for a year to start in September 2016, as I still have to somehow raise the money for my flights and health insurance.”

Despite her other passion for theatre, Annie will continue making music. She said: “The music will never stop. It’s a good outlet for me to express myself.”