The Magazine for the Royal College of MusicI Spring 2013 Now… relax! How the RCM is tackling performance anxiety What’s inside... Welcome to upbeat... When you’re under the spotlight, it’s not always easy to ‘relax’ on stage. But developing a stage presence and ability to communicate with an audience is a vital part of Contents training as a musician at the RCM. To help students along, Head of Performance Science Professor Aaron Williamon has led a team of researchers to develop the first 4 In the news performance simulator for musicians. Turn to page 12 to find out how he’s using this Updating you on recent RCM new technology to help students improve their performance skills. activities... This issue we also say a fond farewell to Peter Hewitt who is leaving us after 22 years as 10 Farewell to Peter Director of the RCM’s Junior Department. Turn to page 10 to read his about his time at Peter Hewitt reminisces over his the JD, including taking part in the rain-soaked Thames Pageant for the Queen’s Jubilee time as Director of the RCM’s Celebrations. Junior Department We would also like to take this opportunity to invite you all to witness a thrilling 12 Simulating and stimulating concert. On Tuesday 23 May, the RCM Symphony Orchestra will be performing one of performance the truly great orchestral works of the 20th century – Messiaen’s Turangalîla – at the Professor Aaron William tells Royal Festival Hall. Turn to page 9 for further details. Upbeat about his latest research into performance anxiety We’re always keen to hear from students past and present, so if you have anything you would like us to feature in the next issue of Upbeat, send your news and pictures to 14 Meeting the supporters
[email protected] by Monday 29 April 2013.