Upbeat Spring 2014

The Magazine for the Royal College of MusicI Spring 2014

Composing about Architecture Collaborative projects at the RCM

What’s inside... Welcome to upbeat... The cover of this issue shows just one of six enthralling exhibits from the Royal Academy of Arts’ latest exhibition – Sensing Spaces. This exciting show, which Contents brings together some of the most creative architectural minds from around the world, has been the source of inspiration for RCM composers in the latest of 4 In the news their cross-art collaborations. Turn to page 12 to find out more. Updating you on recent RCM Collaborations is the theme for this issue of Upbeat. Artistic Director Stephen activities Johns highlights the many partnerships the RCM has with professional groups in London and gives away just a few details about the next exciting 10 Performance Platforms collaboration with the Philharmonia. RCM violinist Joo Yeon Sir also shares her From community centres to experiences of performing in a remarkable range of venues and how they’ve Wigmore Hall, RCM violinist shaped her as a musician. Joo Yeon Sir tells Upbeat about the diverse spaces she’s had the Elsewhere, the new Listening Experience Database, which aims to create a mass opportunity to perform in record of people’s experiences of listening to music, is inviting members of the public to input their own musical experiences. Turn to page 6 to find how. 11 Orchestral Collaborations We’re always keen to hear from students past and present, so if you have Artistic Director Stephen Johns anything you would like us to feature in next issue of Upbeat, send your news tells Upbeat about the RCM’s and pictures to [email protected] by Monday 28 April. latest exciting orchestral project with the Philharmonia NB: Please note that we cannot guarantee to include everything we receive and that we reserve the right to edit submissions. 12 Sensing Spaces Find out about a series of innovative composition Upbeat online projects devised by the RCM Did you know that Upbeat is available to read online at www.rcm.ac.uk/upbeat in collaboration with partner If you’d prefer to read it in this way, do contact us at [email protected] and we’ll institutions across London stop sending you a paper copy. If you’d like us to send you an email notification when Upbeat is published, let us know your email address too. 14 Meeting the supporters Upbeat meets long standing supporter John Ward

16 Student notes… Current student success stories

18 Staff notes… News from professorial, academic and administrative staff

20 Alumni notes… Updates from RCM graduates

22 Obituaries

Roger Norrington conducts the RCM Symphony Orchestra

Front cover – Sensing Spaces © Royal Academy of Arts, London, 2014. Photography James Harris Inside front cover – RCM International Opera School’s production of Ravel’s L’heure espagnole and L’enfant et les sortilèges © Chris Christodoulou Inside back cover – RCM Symphony Orchestra, Chorus and Junior Department Treble Choir perform Britten’s Spring Symphony conducted by David Hill © Chris Christodoulou

3 In the news...

a close with a sublime performance of The RCM is very fortunate to have the Soirée d’Or 2013 Oh Holy Night arranged by RCM Artistic support of a hard working external Director Stephen Johns. Finally, the committee for this event. Led by Lady The RCM’s annual fundraising gala, audience was invited to join in with a Carr, this group works throughout the Soirée d’Or, has raised a record-breaking stirring selection of popular Christmas year to secure table sales, sponsorships £210,000 in aid of scholarships for carols. and donations for the event. We are talented RCM students. very grateful to all individuals on this The evening included two auctions and Held at the V&A Museum on committee who generously give their raised a total of £98,000. Adrian Biddell time voluntarily. Our thanks also to Sir Wednesday 4 December, the event of Sotheby’s presented the Live Auction, was attended by almost 400 guests. Roger Carr for presenting a wonderful raising £14,000, which included a private appeal speech. The evening opened in the Medieval performance by violinist Aisha Syed. and Renaissance Gallery with music The Silent Auction was run through The evening was tinged with sadness as provided by a jazz quartet and a an electronic bidding system with the committee paid tribute to their dear Taittinger champagne reception. Dinner enthusiastic guests bidding for a range friend and committee member, Emma followed in the impressive Raphael of 25 items via electronic tablets. Prizes Rose (see page 22), who died tragically Gallery interspersed with music by RCM included a recording session in the in a diving accident in November. Both musicians including the RCM Drumline RCM Studios, a walk-on part in one of Emma’s husband and her brother were ensemble, BBC Young Musician the RCM International Opera School’s in attendance together with friends she marimba finalistLucy Landymore productions and a series of instrumental had invited. and violinist Aisha Syed. TheRCM and vocal lessons by RCM professors. Chamber Choir brought the evening to

In its article, the THR states that the an interview with RCM alumnus Hooray for RCM “has trained greats from inside its Christopher Tin, winner of two South Kensington walls for more than 130 Grammys and composer of the opening Hollywood! years”, and includes quotes from note for Microsoft’s Surface tablet. The Hollywood Reporter (THR) has named the Royal College of Music as one of the industry’s top 10 music schools. The RCM is the only institution from outside the USA to be included in The Hollywood Reporter’s inaugural ranking of the industry’s top 10 music schools. The survey is based on academic and entertainment insiders, including composers, arrangers, music supervisors, editors and engineers from The Society of Composers and Lyricists. The other nine institutions on the list are located in Philadelphia, Boston, New York and Los Angeles. The RCM Composition for Screen programme is internationally renowned as one of the world’s leading training programmes for film and TV composers.

4 CNBC Meets: Lang Lang Creative Learning Project The RCM has collaborated with the University of Cambridge’s Centre for Musical Performance as Creative Practice (CMPCP) for an investigation into how musicians find creative inspiration. Led by University of Cambridge Professor John Rink, with CMPCP associates including RCM Professor of Performance Science Aaron Williamon, the ‘Creative Learning’ project has shown that musicians may be at their most inspired when they step away from their instrument and think about music in different ways. It also identified four main ingredients needed for an artist to achieve creative expression in Students from the RCM Junior back to the piano community, rather practice and performance contexts alike: Department have featured in a new TV than just doing concerts for himself” and freedom, flexibility, a sense of being “in documentary about the world-famous praising him for “helping young people the moment”, and a commitment to pianist Lang Lang. out”. “giving” the music to an audience. CNBC Meets: Lang Lang included Lang Lang also spoke to CNBC Meets The researchers carried out some footage of Lang Lang’s piano about why teaching masterclasses is an of their fieldwork at the RCM, using masterclass in the RCM’s Britten important part of his life, saying that a combination of questionnaires, Theatre in November last year, when he feels all musicians with wonderful interviews, focus-group discussions, and he worked with pianists from the RCM careers have a duty to give back to observations of one-to-one lessons and Junior Department (RCMJD) and from society. practice sessions. RCM horn player Pablo Lang Lang Music World – his school for Urbina was one of the students selected gifted pianists in Shenzhen, China. The documentary is available to watch to take part in the project, which he said on the CNBC website (with footage of was “a great way for me to understand In the film RCMJD studentsAnthony the RCM from 07’16’’) at the processes I go through to familiarise Tat and Domnic Doutney talked about http://cnb.cx/1aRlXod. Complete myself with a piece. I’m sure it’s helped me the experience of working with Lang footage of the masterclass itself is also to communicate better when I am playing Lang, with Dominic commenting that available on the RCM YouTube channel and conducting”. “it’s great for a person like him to give at www.youtube.com/rcmlondon Further information about the project can be found on the University of RCM pianist Pavel Kolesnikov has Cambridge website at bit.ly/M30Qtu 5 Stars for Pavel received a 5-star review from The Kolesnikov Telegraph for his debut at London’s Wigmore Hall. A thank you The recital, which took place on Sunday big 12 January 2014, was described in the In December the Royal College of review as “one of the most memorable Music participated in the 2013 Big of such occasions London has witnessed Give Christmas Challenge to raise in a while”, with reviewer John Allison funds for our scholarship programme. praising the “spellbinding beauty” of Pavel’s playing. We’re delighted to report that thanks to the great generosity of our donors The Russian pianist is no stranger to we have surpassed last year’s total, success, having won the first prize at the raising an impressive £140,070. Thank highly prestigious Honens International you to all those who contributed to Piano Competition in 2012. the Big Give, which will go towards transforming the lives of talented Pavel can be seen performing as the young musicians. first pianist in footage of an RCM piano masterclass with András Schiff on the RCM YouTube channel.

5 In the news... The Listening Experience Database Salomon Prize for Do you have documented evidence of include what they listened to, where Catherine Arlidge listening experiences that you would and when they listened to it and the like to record? effect it had on them. If so, you might be able to contribute Members of the public are invited to to an ambitious new project being input their own evidence of musical launched by The Open University and experiences – such as diaries, memoirs the Royal College of Music to produce and letters – into the database, as well the world’s first database of the impact as search it themselves to see how of music on people’s lives. other people have been affected by music. The Listening Experience Database will – for the first time – Visit the Listening Experience website create a mass of records of people’s at www.open.ac.uk/Arts/LED to personal experiences of listening to explore the database and contribute music in any period or culture. This will your experiences.

RCM alumna Catherine Arlidge has been awarded the prestigious RPS/ ABO Salomon Prize for orchestral musicians.

Sub-principal of the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra’s second violins, Catherine has become the first violinist and third-ever recipient of the prestigious award, which celebrates the ‘unsung heroes’ of orchestral life. Queen’s Medal for Catherine has played with the CBSO for more than 20 years, and was Sir Thomas Allen nominated by her fellow musicians RCM alumnus Sir Thomas Allen has and the orchestra’s management been awarded The Queen’s Medal for for her creativity, energy and “great Music 2013. skill for motivating and inspiring colleagues and for engaging with her Sir Thomas began his studies at the Royal audience”. She has been instrumental College of Music in 1964, and has since welcoming Sir Thomas Allen to the RCM in initiating and devising many become an established star of the great for a masterclass on Friday 14 March projects and ideas to engage young with star vocal students in the Britten opera houses of the world, singing no people in classical music. Theatre. fewer than 50 roles at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden. Named after Johann Peter Salomon, Sir Thomas Allen said: I“ was surprised violinist and founding member of and thrilled to hear I would receive The The baritone returned to the RCM in the Philharmonic Society in 1813, Queen’s Medal for Music having had so 2002 to make a triumphant directing the annual £1,000 Salomon Prize much recognition over many years. This debut with the RCM International Opera is awarded each year to a musician very special award means so much to me who has shown commitment and School’s production of Britten’s Albert and I’m very proud to have been selected.” Herring. It received rave reviews, with dedication above and beyond the expected service asked by their one Seen and Heard International Established in 2005, The Queen’s Medal orchestra. The Award was presented reviewer saying she could not “think for Music is awarded to an outstanding to Catherine on stage at a CBSO of another current performance more individual or group of musicians who performance at Warwick Arts Centre worthy of recommendation”. As Upbeat have had a major influence on the on Friday 10 January. goes to press, we’re looking forward to musical life of the nation.

6 New Hall of Arts Medals for RCM Philanthropists Residence For 20 years College Hall has been a vibrant and lively focal point for RCM students. As reported in the previous edition of Upbeat, the site of College Hall will be redeveloped during 2014/15 thanks to a £44 million partnership with Campus Living Villages (CLV).

The cost of the project is being borne by CLV and will result in the creation of brand new state-of-the-art facilities to In December last year, HRH The Prince students. For nine years Philip and house students from September 2015. of Wales presented Prince of Wales Christine have been attending Medals for Arts Philanthropy to Ian performances and following the For the 2014/15 year, the RCM has and Mercedes Stoutzker and to Philip progress of the musicians they support, secured student accommodation at Nido and Christine Carne, all long-term and have forged strong links along the Spitalfields. A stone’s throw away from supporters of the RCM. way. Their encouragement and belief in the famous Spitalfields Market, Petticoat our students is appreciated by all those Lane Market and Brick Lane, the area Alongside three other worthy who have benefited and by those who promises the full London experience. recipients, they received their medals at witness the lasting friendships that have a ceremony at St James’s Palace been made. During this period of redevelopment, attended by Professor Colin Lawson there will be limited access to the RCM (RCM Director), Samir Savant (RCM Longstanding and generous Special Collections as they are moved Director of Development) and many supporters, Ian and Mercedes from their current home in College Hall luminaries from the arts world. Stoutzker have played a leading role in to Prince Consort Road. Presented annually since 2008, the philanthropy at the RCM. The Ian Prince of Wales Medals for Arts Stoutzker Prize for violinists has created Keep a look out for further details in Philanthropy recognise and celebrate a roll call of gifted RCM students, and future editions of Upbeat. the huge impact that private givers can Mr Stoutzker’s informed interest in the have. musicians and their instruments continues to be invaluable. Alongside Through the Richard Carne his support of students, Ian has played Call for College Scholarships and Junior Fellowship, a key role as advocate and advisor Philip and Christine Carne’s through his time served on the RCM Hall Memories support of RCM students has been Council and now as a Vice-President. transformative. As Patrons, and funding Did you live in the RCM’s College four scholars each year as well as a On behalf of the many RCM students Hall on Goldhawk Road between chamber music ensemble, their they have supported, we offer our 1994 and 2014? generosity makes a tangible difference congratulations and thanks to them all. If so, we would love to hear from to the success of a great many you with any fond memories and recollections of living at the RCM’s hall of residence. Please send your Using contemporary manuscripts, scores, The Modern programmes, portraits and diaries ‘The stories to [email protected] and we Modern Germans in Georgian England’ will try to include as many of them Germans in examines the rapturous reception as possible in the next edition of the German-speaking musicians received magazine. Georgian England in London and how they influenced a During the 18th century, London became generation of young English composers one of Europe’s leading musical centres including John Barnett, William Sterndale with a flourishing concert scene. Handel, Bennett and S S Wesley. J C Bach and Haydn all enjoyed success here but music by English composers was The RCM Museum of Music is open notably absent. Tuesday to Friday (11.30am – 4.30pm) and is free to visit. The exhibition runs Find out how and why this would change until Friday 5 September. Visit www.rcm. in the 1820s and 1830s at a new exhibition ac.uk/museum for further details. housed in the RCM Museum of Music.

7 In the news... Alumni Reunion 2014 – Save the date! A History The RCM is delighted to announce it friends. Although the focus will be on of Giving will be holding an Alumni Reunion the 1975–1985 cohort, alumni of any on Sunday 14 September. Following ‘vintage’ are very welcome to attend. on from last year’s hugely successful event, the 2014 reunion will be an If you wish to receive further opportunity for graduates from information about this event, please 1975–1985 to reconnect at the RCM. get in touch with Elspeth Coates on 020 7591 4331 or [email protected]. The afternoon event will include a If you are in contact with alumni who drinks reception and an opportunity may have lost touch with the RCM, to re-visit favourite ‘haunts’ in the then please pass on their details or ask RCM, with plenty of time to meet old them to contact us.

A special event for those who have pledged a gift to the RCM in their will was held on Friday 22 November. The event explored the lasting impact of some of the RCM’s most celebrated alumni and benefactors. A highlight from the week was the Rag Week RCM Staff Grade 1 Challenge. For this Guests were treated to an absorbing talk event, RCM staff members who had by Head of Special Collections Professor TheRCM Students’ Association raised been taught a new instrument by Paul Banks on the impact of the RCM’s £5,665.26 through a week of events in students and colleagues since the Founding Benefactors. These included February in aid of this year’s charity autumn term took their Grade 1 exam Samson Fox, who funded the building Great Ormond Street Hospital, one of in front of an audience in the Amaryllis of the RCM, and Sir George Donaldson, the world’s leading children’s hospitals. Fleming Concert Hall. whose collection forms the nucleus of the treasures in the RCM Museum of Events during the week included a Money raised for the GOSH Charity Music. Charity Auction, a Fair Trade Afternoon helps the hospital save more lives, Tea and a concert from the RCM develop new treatments, build state of Over lunch, guests had the opportunity Students’ Association RAG Orchestra. the art facilities, and support patients to meet some of the current RCM and their families. students benefitting from scholarships set up by generous individuals in their wills. The supporters were also treated to a concert of songs by Benjamin Britten, whose birthday coincided with the event and marked the end of a year of celebrations marking his centenary. As a charity, leaving a gift in your will is one of the most important and enduring ways in which you can support the RCM. Whatever the size of a gift, a bequest will have a real impact in enabling the RCM to continue its important work and is a wonderful way to be remembered. Please contact Development Officer Isabelle Tawil on 020 7591 4336 for further RCM staff members participate in the Grade 1 Challenge details.

8 unique research environment. The six Students’ Conference is open to RCM speakers and their subjects were: postgraduates studying in the UK or abroad, and offers the opportunity for Bruno Bower: Grieg, Schubert, students to present research in music, Beethoven: Varieties of National Identity musicology and related areas in a friendly in the Programme Notes of the Crystal and supportive atmosphere, while Palace Concerts, 1865-1879 gaining valuable skills and networking Erin McHugh: Das wahre Tier: Lulu’s opportunities. vocal music as commentary on her In his report on the conference, the otherness and autonomy RMA’s student blogger Alexi Vellianitis Steven Daverson: A Humanising Strategy wrote “it was heartening to note the very in Complex Music high number of speakers undertaking RCM Research doctoral research at conservatoires, Balder Gerhardt Neergaard: Schumann many of whom presented the freshest makes an impact as Piano Student and most impressive papers: pianist RCM students made a great impact at Maria Razumovskaya provided a Maria Razumovskaya: Climbing Towards sensitive and nuanced reading of the Royal Music Association’s (RMA) the Summit of Knowledge: Heinrich 2014 Research Students’ Conference. Heinrich Neuhaus’s interpretation of Neuhaus’s Interpretation of Beethoven Beethoven’s piano music, and Erin The conference took place from 6 to 8 Fiona Gibbs: Innovation through vision? McHugh drew upon her own singing January 2014 at the University of Prince Albert and the Royal Albert Hall experience to provide an impassioned Birmingham. Of the 104 speakers, no discussion of the gendering of vocal fewer than six were from the RCM, all Founded in 1874, the RMA is dedicated registers in Berg’s Lulu and reflecting different aspects of the RCM’s to the study of music. Its Research Strauss’s Salome.” RCM at the Royal Festival Hall 7.30pm | Thursday 26 February 2015

Tickets: £5, £10, £15, £20, £25 Available from the RCM Box Office on 020 7591 4314 www.rcm.ac.uk/cityoflight

9 Performance Platforms

of the audience members were very Gallery as part of the Belle Shenkman elderly and I wasn’t sure how to engage series was very special to me. The idea with them. But I soon found that they behind the series is you’re introduced to were very receptive and that I could try a set of paintings in one of the Gallery’s out some really diverse programmes with rooms and then you devise a programme them, even some really wacky pieces! that’s connected to them in some way. For one concert we programmed a series Performing at a place such as of pieces that evoked contrasting moods St Wilfred’s really helps to put of masculinity and femininity, and we everything in perspective. It teaches tied this to the portraits of the Virgin you that while you’re doing all this Mary and the Pope that were hung on hard work, practising four or five hours the walls. It’s also important to explain a day, what really counts is how you your thinking behind the programme to communicate and engage with people. your audience, although I think on that So often you go to a concert and there occasion we got a little carried away and is no interaction between the stage and spoke for too long! seats, it’s made me realise how important that connection is. Many of your performances are also available on YouTube, have you found How did you go about finding these that a useful promotional tool? performance opportunities? It was something the Woodhouse In the first term of my first year I Centre really encouraged me to do. It visited the Woodhouse Professional happened slightly by chance though! I Development Centre, and they have was due to perform at St James Piccadilly been a really important part of my and a recording engineer approached life here at the RCM ever since. They me and asked if I’d like him to record have arranged many performance the concert. So he did and I now have During her six years studying at opportunities and provided that extra several up on my channel, as well as a the RCM, Korean-born British support I needed to prepare and present few performances at St Martin-in-the- myself professionally. Fields. Both these churches were really violinist Joo Yeon Sir has taken important venues for me to perform at every opportunity to perform in How have these experiences helped you too. I see them as important milestones perform in more traditional concert in my career and my teacher, Dr Felix venues in and around London. settings? Andrievsky, was incredibly helpful and From community centres to I recently performed at Wigmore supportive in preparing me for these Hall as part of the Tillett Trust Young concerts. He often came not only to the Wigmore Hall, she tells Upbeat Concert Artists Platform Scheme. Having concerts but also to the rehearsals. how the RCM’s partnerships previously performed there six years before at the end of my time at the What next? with these institutions have Purcell School, it was a great moment When I came to the RCM I told to be able to look back on my life and myself that I would try to get as many benefited her as a musician. reflect on what’s happened. It made performance opportunities as possible me realise that I started at the RCM a and to prove to myself that I can make What was the first performance violinist, but now I’m a musician. it as a concert performing artist. I feel opportunity you received through every year I’ve been here I’ve got closer to the RCM? All the concert opportunities I’ve making my dream a reality. had – be they in community centres, One of my first ‘gigs’ was at the small churches or big halls like the Claremont Community Centre in Watch a short video with Joo Yeon Wigmore – have been invaluable Islington. This was a completely different Sir as she prepares for performances learning experiences. They’ve all experience to performing in concert halls at the V&A Museum and Claremont influenced the way I perform today. I and initially I felt quite nervous. I hadn’t Community Centre in Islington. think I’m more forgiving and accepting had any experience of talking in front www.rcm.ac.uk/jooyeon of myself as performer now. I’ve also of an audience and if I’m honest I still met some wonderful musicians whom find it quite difficult, but I’ve learnt so I often collaborate with, and a few much from doing it. I went back to the concert organisers who have gone on community centre about six months ago to recommend me for other concert and to perform there again was fantastic. opportunities. It made me realise how far I’ve come. I’ve also given several performances at Do you have a favourite performance venue in London? RCM musicians perform at a wide St Wilfred’s Centre in Chelsea. It’s a care range of venues in London and I’ve always loved art and find it very home for the elderly, and it’s become one beyond. Visit www.rcm.ac.uk/events inspiring for my playing, so having the of my favourite places. The first time I for details of upcoming concerts. played there it was quite scary as many opportunity to perform at the National

10 Orchestral Collaborations

Boulanger, the sister of the influential future projects with them. We’re also composer Nadia Boulanger, as well just starting to organise a side-by-side as selections from a rarely performed scheme for wind and brass students. work by Charles Koechlin. Although he’s not very well-known, Koechlin A few years ago we collaborated with was particularly admired by his the London Philharmonic Orchestra as contemporaries as an orchestrator. We’ll part of their celebration of the music of be performing movements from his Les Alfred Schnittke. More recently, their Heures Persanes, which is essentially a principal conductor Vladimir Jurowski travel log of a journey through Persia directed the RCM Symphony Orchestra and includes some wonderful character in a programme of Prokofiev rarities as pieces. part of their series: Sergei Prokofiev, Man of the People? A particularly memorable The other half of the programme consists moment from that concert was his Ode of two classics – Suite no 2 of Ravel’s to the End of the War which demanded Daphnis et Chloé and Stravinksy’s Rite of four grand pianos and eight harps! Quite Spring. This is such a great opportunity a feat, and example of the ground- to show off our orchestra and chorus – it breaking programming we do here. will involve more than 300 students. I’m particularly excited about hearing our Aside from our artistic collaborations orchestra and singers perform the Ravel. we also work with the BBC Symphony Daphnis et Chloé is one of my favourite Orchestra, English National Opera and works. It’s such an overwhelmingly London Symphony Orchestra to offer Opportunities to collaborate emotional piece of music, so beautifully students opportunities to play, rehearse and perform with professional orchestrated and put together, so and sometimes even perform in these carefully constructed. professional groups. These placements orchestras are invaluable are a fantastic chance for students to Are there any other RCM concerts experience playing in a professional experiences for RCM students. planed as part of the festival? orchestra; it really helps them Artistic Director Stephen There will also be a series of concerts understand what’s expected of them. Johns tells Upbeat about the at the RCM, but I can’t tell you too It’s also a great opportunity to make much about them yet. Details will be contacts in the profession, get to know latest exciting project with the announced later this year. But I can tell the players and administrative staff, and you they will feature some amazing it can lead to further work in the future. Philharmonia. pieces, including one work written by members of a group of French The more we can develop these The RCM’s next collaboration with the composers known as ‘Les Six’ called Les relationships the better. It validates and Philharmonia has just been announced. Mariés de la Tour Eiffel (The Wedding extends everything we’re doing here at What’s the idea behind their latest Party on the Eiffel Tower)! the RCM. series – The City of Light? It’s a celebration of Paris between 1900 How do students benefit from being and 1950. At that time, the ‘City of Light’ part of such a high-profile festival? Recent orchestral was a real melting pot for new music These experiences are invaluable to collaborations and and artistic ideas. Leading writers, artists students. Playing at the Royal Festival partnerships: and dancers from around the world Hall, one of the world’s greatest stages, were drawn to Paris and collaborated in a full evening concert and as part of a Philharmonia Orchestra with composers there to create some larger series with a professional orchestra The City of Light: Paris 1900–1950 wonderful orchestral music. is a huge honour. Performing to such a (2015); Woven Words: “Music begins large public audience – you cannot do where words end” (2013); Infernal The Philharmonia’s series runs from anything but be brilliant. All the training Dance: Inside the World of Béla Bartók November this year and includes we give at the RCM is in preparation for (2011); City of Dreams: Vienna 1900– concerts, study days and talks in London these types of opportunities. I think the 1935 (2009) and beyond. We’re very excited to students will find it remarkable – it will London Philharmonic Orchestra be involved – there will be a series of stay with them throughout the rest of Alfred Schnittke: Between Two Worlds chamber concerts at the RCM and one their career. (2009); Prokofiev, Man of the People? high-profile event at the Southbank’s (2012) Royal Festival Hall on Thursday 26 Which other orchestras does the RCM February 2015 (see page 9 for further work with? BBC Symphony Orchestra details). We’re very lucky to have such a Orchestral Pathway Scheme close working relationship with the London Symphony Orchestra What’s on the programme for the Royal Philharmonia. TheCity of Light series Strings Experience Scheme Festival Hall concert? is the fourth festival we’ve been RCM/ENO Evolve It’s going to be a spectacular concert. involved in and it’s very exciting for Side by side scheme It includes a world premiere by Lili us to be welcomed back and to plan

11 Sensing Spaces

Sensing Spaces installation by Kengo Kuma Photo © Royal Academy of Arts London 2014 Photography James Harris James of Arts 2014 Photography Academy London © Royal Photo

Can different art forms for composers: “I particularly like far more open to new music when it’s composition projects that stretch the framed in this collaborative way.” Bill really speak meaningfully musical and conceptual imagination agrees that projects like this “…give an to each other? Stravinsky’s of a composer. In a very obvious way audience something to grasp: a means to music and painting or photography – or access the composers’ imagination – to purported quote “Talking about still image – are about as far away from see where it comes from – and perhaps music is like dancing about each other as it is possible to get. One to find a way into the far more abstract exists purely in space as a non-moving, world of pure music. Of course not architecture” seems to say not, non-changing object that one can regard everything works, but when it does the at leisure, the other exists purely in impact can be electric!” but his busy working life as time and is fleeting and momentary – it a frequent collaborator with disappears as soon as the music stops. Bill and Diana are working closely But it’s that wonderful tension between together on their latest flagship project: choreographers, visual artists, the static image and moving sound that a collaboration with the Royal Academy actors and writers suggests can ‘charge’ the creative imagination and of Arts, connected to their “Sensing perhaps lead composers in all sorts of Spaces” exhibition, which has seen otherwise. directions that might otherwise never architects fill the RAA’s galleries with have occurred to them. The positive extraordinary architectural installations. And in recent years, the notion of communion that our composers can Six RCM composers were given a guided cross-arts collaboration has been find between sound and image is tour of the exhibition, and then went enthusiastically embraced by RCM always provocative and sometimes away to create new compositions to composers. In a series of innovative overwhelming.” be performed within the installations projects, devised by the RCM in themselves. As Upbeat goes to press, collaboration with prestigious partner Diana Roberts and her team in the we’re eagerly anticipating the world Woodhouse Professional Development institutions across London, they premiere performance of all six works Centre have also launched a new series have been taking inspiration from on 10 March. Bill comments that of collaborations, and Diana sees an non-musical sources as diverse as “Architecture, thanks to the way we additional benefit for the composers: photography, sculpture, painting and experience it, is in many ways closer to “The composers get to work with even perfume. music than you might think; after all, we another art form, go on a real creative move through an architectural space in RCM Head of Composition William journey and hear their works performed to a very high standard at a prestigious time. We’ve never done this before and Mival has masterminded a number I’m hugely looking forward to hearing of these projects – including the venue. Beyond all of that, their works are appreciated by new and cultured our composers sound those amazing RCM’s collaboration with the National spaces at the RA!” Portrait Gallery, now in its eighth year audiences. In fact, what I’ve observed – and is evangelical about the benefits over the years is that audiences are

12 Danielle Howard, one of the six selected RCM composers, is enthusiastic about her participation in the project: “It has been hugely inspiring to me as a composer to be given the challenge of writing a piece based on the architectural designs. My chosen installation (Pezo Von Ellrichshausen’s Blue Pavilion) allows the visitor to experience the gallery from a new perspective, and to appreciate particular details in the gallery itself (for example, the detail in the ceiling). I was inspired not only by the installation itself but also by quotes from the architects, and one quote in particular – ‘simple things, but which taken together suggest something more complex’ – has formed the basis of my composition.” Blue Pavilion (Royal Academy of Arts) Fellow composer Cameron Graham is Harris James 2014. Photography of Arts, London, Academy © Royal Photo similarly intrigued: “Sensing Spaces is a monstrous and incredibly immersive exhibition, quite unlike anything I’ve seen Some recent RCM in a traditional gallery setting. It has been collaborative projects: a challenge to create music that enriches Sensing Spaces/Royal Academy the impression of my chosen installation of Arts (Li Xiaodong’s labyrinth). The performers The Sound of Perfume (Clive Christian Perfumes) Composing about architecture have no visual contact with each other Exhibition runs until 6 April 2014 throughout the piece, as they will all be Find out more at: www.royalacademy. in different areas of the labyrinth ‘calling org.uk/exhibitions/sensingspaces out’ to each other. This has forced me to consider a different way of structuring The Sound of Perfume/Clive the music so that it can move in a Christian Perfumes Piano pieces inspired by the scent of number of directions, not unlike the luxury perfumes. Watch a short video passage through a maze or labyrinth.” about the project on youtube: Having had this new experience, what bit.ly/1e92RtE do the RCM composers think about the In Visible/Royal British Society wider issue of collaboration between art of Sculptors forms? Installations to accompany contemporary sculpture. Watch a Cameron told Upbeat: “I’m passionate short video about the project on the about the relationship between the RCM website: www.rcm.ac.uk/ryan visual arts and music, and find paintings, Rhapsody/Chelsea & Westminster sculpture and film wonderful sources of Hospital inspiration. However I don’t think there Recordings encouraging patients to is a way of literally representing a visual explore in-house artworks as part of artistic medium in music. History has their recuperation produced a number of works inspired by images, but can the music suggest Belle Shenkman Music Programme/ an image without the two having to be National Gallery presented simultaneously? I love music New compositions performed in for this reason; it is such an abstract front of the paintings that inspired form of expression that is in itself just as them. Photos of previous concerts are physical as it is sonic.” available on our Flickr page: bit.ly/1eEtA6c Dani has a slightly different take on the Taylor Wessing Photographic subject: “I absolutely feel that music Portrait Prize / National Portrait can represent the visual arts - in every Gallery way! Cross-arts collaborative projects Pieces inspired by prize-winning are increasingly common, and they will photography always create a unique experience for all Glissando/Salisbury Arts Centre of our senses - as each art form can only An interactive theatrical performance enhance the other.” In Visible (Royal British Society of Sculptors) with Music off Canvas

13 Meeting the supporters...

When did you first become involved What draws you back to the RCM? with the RCM? It’s the place, the whole ambience here It was long time ago. At that time I was is so friendly. I like to bring others with working for British Airways and I used me too, including my granddaughter. I’m to fly into Heathrow and come straight really pleased my son is now also an RCM up to the RCM to hear a concert. After a Friend. while I thought it would be a good idea to join the RCM Friends scheme. After I used to only enjoy coming to the a few years, I moved up to Best Friend, big orchestral concerts, but recently then Benefactor and now I’m a member I’ve found a new interest in baroque of the Patrons’ Circle. I just find it such music. I also came to a particularly a lovely place. Everyone who works here stunning vocal concert last year; it is so friendly and warm, and is always was the RCM Chamber Choir singing pleased to see you. Finish and Estonian music. I thought it was incredible, it must have been so Who first introduced you to classical complicated to learn. music? I enjoy coming to all the RCM Friends My love of classical music was inspired events, it’s particularly nice when there’s by a group of Salesian priests in Blaisdon a drink or supper event along with a in Gloucestershire. One priest in concert and it’s a real pleasure to meet particular encouraged me to take up the and talk to the students themselves. euphonium – he was a very wonderful, retiring man. The RCM Friends is also a wonderful network. There are so many interesting In fact, I could have become a musician; people to talk to, some are experts but I once played Eine kleine Nachtmusik on others are just music lovers like me. the euphonium for one of our concerts with a priest accompanying me. The next morning I got a call from the Rector’s Office, who said that the Commandant Welcome to John Ward of the Gloucestershire Regiment had been at the concert the previous night new Friends Long standing supporter and and was offering to take me into the Regiment as a Band Boy and send me to and Supporters RCM Patrons’ Circle member Kneller Hall. I quickly said I didn’t want to John Ward has been attending earn a living playing music; I just wanted We are delighted to welcome the to enjoy it. I also didn’t want to join the following people who have recently concerts and supporting army until I had to. made their first donation to the RCM students at the RCM for more When did your interest in piano music Dame Helen Alexander CBE than 20 years. His keen interest begin? Mervyn and Helen Bradlow and passion for the piano I became very passionate for the Mr David Crouch piano about 20 years ago when I met a Dr Barbara Domayne-Hayman has led to him supporting remarkable young pianist called Juliet Dr Angela Escott HonRCM Allen. I always say I’m her oldest ‘groupie’ Mr William Howard our annual keyboard festival and still enjoy her performances today. and contributing towards the From then on I became a keen listener Mr Philippos Kassimatis to piano music. I would have liked to Mr Christopher Levy purchase of new pianos at the learn the piano as it’s something you can Mr Timothy Maxwell RCM. Upbeat caught up with do on your own, unlike the euphonium Mrs Xenia Norman where you really need a band! him ahead of the annual Friends Mr Gerald O’Donoghue Mrs Sue Oliver Christmas Drinks party. I’ve recently decided to make a gift in my will to the RCM and last year I decided Ms Camilla Shaugnessy to give some of that gift early towards Mrs Elza Shayakhmetova Have you always enjoyed music? new pianos because of my love of the Ms Anna Stephens At boarding school I used to play the instrument, and they’re now sitting in Mrs Paola Toker euphonium in the band, but I couldn’t the Parry Rooms up at the top of the Mr and Mrs Sencar Toker play it now! When I left school I played in Blomfield Building. Leaving a gift in your Mr Olgierd Warszewski the Hillingdon and Uxbridge town band will makes sense from a taxation point and the Watford Silver Prize and British of view. Legion Band, but then I was called up for National Service and that was the end of my playing career.

14 Supporting the future of music...

Music has the power to transform lives. Sir Peter and Lady Walters Tania Chislett Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, Edward Brooks FRCM Sir Anthony Cleaver FRCM and Lady Cleaver generations of gifted students from around Sir Gordon Palmer Scholarship Anonymous the world have been guided and inspired at Douglas and Kyra Downie Mary Godwin the RCM. We would like to thank in particular Mark Loveday Scholarship Mrs Carol J. Hagh those who have made donations of £1,000 or Knights of the Round Table Ms Greta Hemus more in the last 12 months. Gifts are listed in Arthur Wilson Trombone Award Mr and Mrs John Heywood descending order. Else and Leonard Cross Charitable Trust Monica Moezinia Yehudi Menuhin Award Mrs R Rothbarth Supporters of named scholarships, bursaries Midori Nishiura Barbara Simmonds and Junior Fellowships Bell Percussion Betty Sutherland Estate of Dr Neville Wathen Kirby Laing Foundation Sir Robert and Lady Wilson Estate of Fiona Searle Peter Granger Dr Yvonne Winkler ABRSM Paul Booth Sir Peter and Lady Gershon Leverhulme Trust The Donald Paterson Award Sir David Lees Soirée d’Or Scholarships The Nicholas Hunka Fund Costas Kaplanis The John and Marjorie Coultate Scholarship The Bliss Trust Estate of Roselyn Ann Clifton Parker Norman Reintamm Corporate Partners The Richard Carne Charitable Trust Royal Garden Hotel Laurie Barry and the John Barry Scholarship for Supporters of RCM Sparks Hatch Mansfield Film Composition J Paul Getty Jr Charitable Trust Estate of Dr John Birch FRCM John Lyon’s Charity Other generous donors The Wolfson Foundation Universal Music Georg and Emily von Opel Foundation+ H R Taylor Trust The Hedley Foundation Bob and Sarah Wigley H F Awards John Lewis Partnership The Henry Wood Trust Andrew and Karen Sunnucks The Stanley Foundation The Robert Fleming Hannay Memorial Charity Mayor of London’s Fund for Young Musicians John Lewis Partnership Scholarships The Amaryllis Fleming Foundation The Tsukanov Family Foundation Anonymous Karen Cook Richard and Rosemary Millar The Oldhurst Trust The Hon Richard Lyttelton The Worshipful Company of Musicians Angus Allnatt Charitable Foundation The Seary Charitable Trust Hester Laverne Award Charles Napper Award Members of the RCM Chairman’s Circle St Marylebone Educational Foundation Lydia Napper Award Philip Carne HonRCM and Christine Carne* John Hosier Music Trust The Michael Bishop Foundation Michael and Ruth West* Roland Rudd The Big Give Trust Linda and Tony Hill The Sharp Foundation The Reed Foundation John and Catherine Armitage* Centrica plc Croucher Hong Kong Charitable Trust Dr Leonard Polonsky and Dr Georgette Bennett* Daniel Chapchal The Hon Ros Kelly Jane Barker* The Rothermere Foundation Opperby Stokowski Collection Trust Sir Roger and Lady Carr HonRCM* Geoffrey Richards HonRCM The Lee Abbey Award Karina Choudhrie+ Dasha Shenkman HonRCM Stephen Catto Memorial Scholarship Guy Dawson and Sam Horscroft+ The Leche Trust The Worshipful Company of Drapers Gisela Gledhill* Mark Messenger FRCM The Worshipful Company of Fishmongers James and Clare Kirkman* Ann Driver Trust The Estate of Mr Charles Knoll Dr Mark Levesley and Christina Hoseason* Fidelio Trust Lord and Lady Lurgan Trust John Nickson and Simon Rew* Serena Fenwick Ian Stoutzker CBE FRCM Emma Rose (deceased 12 November 2013) Anonymous Ian and Meriel Tegner and Quentin Williams* Dr Franz Humer The Ernest Hecht Charitable Foundation Victoria Sharp* Mark Wood The Kiri Te Kanawa Foundation UK Alethea Siow and Jeremy Furniss* Paul Wayne Gregory Gilbert and Eileen Edgar Junior Fellowship Webster and Davidson Mortification for Phoebe Benham Junior Fellowship Members of the RCM Director’s Circle the Blind The Mills Williams Foundation Sir Peter and Lady Middleton FRCM Sir David Cooksey The Dasha Shenkman Scholarship Judy and Terence Mowschenson The Derek Hill Foundation The Derek Butler Trust Vivien McLean Professor Colin Lawson FRCM Monica and Guy Black Scholarship Charles and Kaaren Hale Janis Susskind HonRCM The Boltini Trust Scholarship The Vernon Ellis Foundation Blair Wilson Award The Charles Peel Charitable Trust Terry Hitchcock Moira D Witty The Ackroyd Trust Metherell Family David D Sieff The Richard Toeman/Weinberger Opera Richard and Sue Price Irisa Frankle Scholarship Peter and Dimity Spiller Edward Mandel/Jacques Samuel Pianos Bursary The Wyseliot Charitable Trust Louisa Treger Michael Steen OBE HonRCM The Wall Trust Sir Sydney and Lady Lipworth The Nicholas Branston Foundation The Stanley Picker Scholarship Mrs Terry Collins-Tveter Professor Lord Winston Members of the RCM Patrons’ Circle Helena Morrissey Lark Insurance Scholarship John Ward Nicola Jones Steinway & Sons Russell Race * Richard Davey The Gary & Eleanor Brass Scholarship Jane Wilson Friends of the National Libraries The Estate of Betty Brenner Mrs Piffa Schroder Brian and Hana Smouha The Robin Ritzema Scholarship (Lady Harrison) Ellen Moloney Richard and Debbie Ward Rhoddy Voremberg * also support a named award David Laing Foundation Scholarship Dimity and Kerry Rubie + also support RCM Sparks The Greenbank Scholarship Mr and Mrs Charles Robinson Independent Opera Artist Scholarship Mrs Victoria Moore-Gillon For more information about supporting the South Square Trust David and Sue Lewis RCM, visit www.rcm.ac.uk/supportus The Tait Trust Scholarship Halina and John Bennett Alternatively, contact Imogen Fullbrook on The Radcliffe Trust John Cheng 020 7591 4862 or [email protected]

15 Student notes notes String successes Guitarist Jonatan Bougt has won First Prize at the Uppsala International Guitar Festival in Sweden. His prize included a premium Ibanez electric guitar and an Ibanez Jemini distortion pedal… Guitarist Laura Snowden has won Third Prize at the second London International Guitar Competition… The Vasara Quartet, featuring Emma Oldfield, Jessica Coleman, Emma Purslow and Kristiana Ignatjeva, has performed at the Royal Variety Show’s After Party. The Vasara Quartet Vocal achievements Soraya Mafi Tenor Nick Pritchard has won First Prize in the fourth London Bach Keyboard Society Bach Singers Prize. He performed Bach arias and recitatives accomplishments from the St Matthew Passion and Easter Kausikan Rajeshkumar has won Second Oratorio, accompanied by early music Prize at the 10th Darmstadt International group the Steinitz Bach Players… RCM Chopin Piano Competition 2013... singers Filipa van Eck, Natasha Day, Tai Dinara Klinton has won Second Prize in Oney, Nick Pritchard, Peter Kirk and the 2013 International Paderewski Piano Caitlin Frizzell have covered and Competition. performed key roles in English Touring Opera’s autumn 2013 series Baroque Opera in Venice… Baritones James Wafer and Huw Montague Rendall have won First and Third Prizes respectively in the Jonatan Bougt 2013 Kathleen Ferrier Society Bursary for Young Singers… Soprano Soraya Mafi has won Third Prize in the Maureen Violinist Marie Schreer has formed Leharne Singing Competition at the ‘Mainly Two’ with alumnus John Garner Wigmore Hall. with a view to expanding the repertoire for two violins… The Fontanelli Quartet, featuring students Jian Ren and Nina Poskin, alumna Colette Overdijk and cellist Kirsten Jenson, has performed at the Purcell Room as part of the Park Lane Group Young Artists New Year Series. Dinara Klinton

Georgina Sutton has performed Chopin’s Piano Concerto no 2 in F minor with the Jersey Symphony Orchestra at Gloucester Hall, Fort Regent. She also performed a special recital at the Chateau Vermont in aid of Macmillan Cancer… Maksim Štšura has won First Prize and the ‘Beethoven Medal’ of the Worshipful Company of Musicians at the Intercollegiate Beethoven Competition organised by the Beethoven Society UK and held at the Austrian Cultural Forum. Maksim was also awarded a cash prize and concert opportunities in the UK… Samson Tsoy has won a prestigious scholarship from the XXIII Nick Pritchard Concorso di esecuzione musicale –

16 Terza Edizione Internazionale 2013 of the Societa Umanitaria International Spotlight on… Competition in Milan… Lara Melda has performed Britten’s Young Apollo with Paul Daniel and the Britten Sinfonia at the Barbican as part of the composer’s centenary celebrations… Kiana Shafiei has co-founded the ‘Iranian Music Heritage Movement’, an association of like-minded individuals dedicated to promoting awareness of Iranian music… Riyad Nicolas has won First Prize in the Norah Sande Award 2013 for young pianists at the Eastbourne Festival.

Dani Howard has written Mind Games, a piece specially commissioned for 2014 BBC Young Musician percussion finalist Tim Highnam… ComposerKarl Fiorini’s two violin concertos have been RCM composer Arne Gieshoff has recorded by Emanuel Salvador and been appointed Composer in Marta Magdalena with the Sudecka Residence with the Birmingham Philharmonic Orchestra… Peter Contemporary Music Group Longworth has been commissioned (BCMG). by the National Youth Orchestras of Scotland to compose an orchestral piece The BCMG/SAM Apprentice celebrating Glasgow’s hosting of the Composer in Residence role is part 2014 Commonwealth Games. His new of Sound and Music’s Embedded work Ludi - Partita for Orchestra receives programme, aimed at talented Lara Melda its premiere performances in Scotland composers and creative artists at later this year… Jan Gorjanc’s short an early stage in their careers. The opera Apaxhn will be premiered by RCM residency with BCMG provides Composition musicians at Cadogan Hall in April… the selected composer with the Adam Kornas’ ballet score ‘The King and opportunity to immerse themselves congratulations Mrs Simpson’ will be performed in April in the ensemble’s activities, gaining at the Brindley Theatre in Cheshire. an insight into a broad range of their Edwin Hillier has been selected for work and the opportunity to write the Sound and Music / NMC Higher new works for them. Education Programme. His new work for mezzo-soprano Lore Lixenberg, Arne has said of his appointment the London Sinfonietta and Sound that “the prospect of working closely Intermedia will be premiered at the over time with an ensemble of the Huddersfield Festival of Contemporary highest calibre fills me with great Music in November 2015 and streamed excitement”. His first commission on the NMC Recordings website… of the residency was premiered in Steven Daverson has composed a work January as part of a BCMG Family for the eight players of Freiburg-based Concert alongside works by Thomas Ensemble Recherche entitled Filonov’s Adès and Colin Matthews. Peter Longworth Microscope, which will be performed Arne is currently completing a in May at the Wittener Tage für Neue Master’s degree in Composition at Kammermusik in Germany and the RCM, studying with Jonathan broadcast on West Deutsche Rundfunk… Other news Cole, Simon Holt and Dai Shiva Feshareki has received a large scale Fujikura and is supported by an commission from the London Sinfonietta Flautist Camilla Marchant has ABRSM Scholarship and an RVW for a piece for nine turntables and mixed contributed to the development of a new Trust Award. He is the recipient of ensemble. For this, she is collaborating orchestral education website. Principal many RCM prizes including the Elgar with the sound and installation artist Chairs provides free sheet music and Memorial Prize and the Adrian Cruft Haroon Mirza who is creating the space orchestral audio recordings, as well as Prize, was awarded the 2012 Royal for the piece… Andrew Crossley has pre-recorded lessons from internationally Philharmonic Society Composition been selected to write a piece for and renowned orchestral artists. The website Prize, and has recently received a attend the Orkest de Ereprijs’s Young currently focuses on flute playing but is fellowship for the 2014 session of the Composers Meeting, chaired by Louis widening its reach to other orchestral Tanglewood Music Centre. Andriessen. instruments. www.principalchairs.com

17 Staff notes

RCM Research Fellow in Performance Science Dr Tania Lisboa has appeared on BBC Radio 4’s Frontiers programme. In the episode entitled The Power of the Unconscious, Tania discussed her main subject of research at the RCM: the relationship between the conscious and unconscious in both learning to play an instrument and also on preparing for memorised performances. She illustrated some of her findings on the cello herself, and with a performance by RCM pianist Hao Chen. Head of Historical Performance Ashley Solomon and harpsichord professor Clara Rodriguez Terence Charlston have performed the complete J S Bach Flute Sonatas as part of Kings Place’s Bach Unwrapped season. Junior Department piano teacher Clara Performance & Programming Concert Florilegium, the RCM’s Ensemble in Rodriguez has played at the opening Assistant James Greveson Hickie is Association and directed by Ashley, has concert of the 39th anniversary of the running the Brighton Marathon and also recorded J S Bach’s Brandenburg creation of the Simón Bolívar Orchestra several other long distances this year. Concertos for Channel Classics. The of Venezuela. The programme featured Having completed the race twice recording features many RCM alumni works by Venezuelan composer Federico before, he is running to raise money for and one current student and will be Ruiz, including his Second Piano the Brain Tumour Charity in memory released in late Spring 2014. Concerto which is dedicated to Clara. of his uncle, who passed away in 2013. You can find more information at www.virginmoneygiving.com/ jamesghmarathon Composition and Academic Studies teacher Tim Watts has been selected as joint winner of the Horniman Museum Composition Competition. His winning piece, Vine, was premiered by harpsichordist Jane Chapman at the museum. Tim’s new score for clarinet quintet, War Game, also received its premiere at Wigmore Hall in January as part of the Britten Sinfonia’s Songs of No-Man’s Land, a concert for children Florilegium commemorating the start of World War One. Junior Department Piano and Chamber Area Leader in Composition for Screen Music teacher Daniel Hill has performed Vasco Hexel has given seven lectures at Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto in B flat Beijing Normal University to members of minor with the Kingston Philharmonia the recently established China Film and under the baton of Matthew Willis at St Television Music Research Centre. He Andrew’s Church in Surbiton. He has also has also led a keynote interview with been appointed Organist and Director Academy Award winner Rachel Portman of Music of St Michael’s Parish Church in at the Amélie Thyssen Auditorium in Camberley. Germany as part of the 10th annual SoundTrack_Cologne conference. Guitar professor Carlos Bonell, along with special guest Brad Richter, visited Deputy Librarian Peter Horton has the USA to perform at a number of written an article about his 2012 venues in Arizona. Works specially exchange visit to the Sächsische composed and arranged for the tour Landesbibliothek for BIS, Der Magazin included Brad’s 3 Duos and Carlos’s der Bibliotheken in Sachsen. He also arrangement of Michael Nyman’s The marked the bicentenary of the composer Piano. The show also included solos from and organist Henry Smart with a paper at Carlos’s no 1 album of music by The the 2013 Conference on Music in 19th- Beatles as well as works by baroque and century Britain at the University Spanish composers. Daniel Hill of Cardiff.

18 Head of Strings Mark Messenger has travelled to the Xinghai Conservatory in Guangzhou with RCM students Jian Ren, Jessica Tickle and Jane Lindsay. The week-long residency included classes, teaching and rehearsals, culminating in a performance of Tchaikovsky’s Serenade. Mark has also performed Mozart’s Sinfonia Concertante with Jonathan Barritt and the Royal Oman Symphony Orchestra at the Sultan of Oman’s private New Year’s Eve concert. Violin professor Madeleine Mitchell has performed at the Canberra International Music Festival as Artist-in-Residence with concerts attended by Her Excellency The Governor General of Australia. She has also given recitals in St Petersburg, Paris, Rome and Kensington & Chelsea Music Mark Messenger at the Xinghai Conservatory in Guangzhou, China Society, and masterclasses at the Hong Kong Performing Arts Academy and Sydney Conservatorium. Piano professor Leon McCawley, clarinet professor Michael Collins and London Spotlight on… Winds have performed Mozart’s Quintet the alexander technique for musicians in E flat“The mostmajor remarkable at results,LSO such Stas freedomLukes. of expression The through freedom of movement, or learning to breathe freely despite nerves, concertor beingmarked able to let go the and enjoy first playing areof possible eight through concerts the the Alexander Technique.” featuringALEXANDER chamber BAILLIE, International music solo cellist by Mozart and alexander was broadcast“The authors present on a thorough BBC and Radio practical discussion 3. of the Alexander Technique as it applies to musicians. In addition to this book being a welcome reference for musicians, the community of Alexander Technique teachers technique worldwide will appreciate the clarity, depth and approach to the work.” Head ofLo RIICT SchIff Mark, M.AmSAT, Teacher Soole of the Alexander and Technique, HR AdvisorsJuilliard Tim School and Rounding Aspen Music Festival and Schooland Vicki Brock for musicians “Without strategies to deal with the physical and mental impact of performance, even the best-prepared musicians can under-perform. have sungIn this book, in youthe will find TV all you Times need to achieve ‘Christmas your performance potential. It’s a gateway to confidence, personal presence – even charisma.” with theJoh Stars’N hARLE, Saxophonist concert and composer at the Royal Albert Hall. Broadcast on BBC Radio Perfect as an introduction to the Alexander Technique, or to supplement the reader’s lessons, The Alexander Technique for Musicians looks at daily and last-minute practice, 2, the eveningbreathing, performance featured and performance anxiety, performances teacher–pupil relationships, ensemble skills, and the application of the Alexander Technique to instrumental and vocal work. from stars of some of TV’s most popular Complete with diagrams and photographs to aid the learning process, as well as step- Judith Kleinman by-step procedures and diary entries written by participating students, The Alexander shows includingTechnique for Musicians givesDownton tried-and-tested advice, Abbey drawn from the authors’and twenty-plus and Peter Buckoke years of experience working with musicians, providing an essential handbook for musicians Coronationseeking the mostStreet. from themselves and their art.

JuDIth KLEINmAN has taught the Alexander Technique at the Royal College of Music and Judith Kleinman for twenty years and at the Junior Royal Academy of Music. She is the Assistant Head of

Training at the London Centre for Alexander Technique and Training. Peter Buckoke Piano professor Ashley Wass has PEtER BucKoKE runs the Alexander Technique department at the Royal College of Music releasedwhere his he has latestbeen Professor albumof Double Bass and Bach Alexander Technique to the since 1989.

Future onDRAMA Orchid Classics. The CDwww.bloomsbury.com featuresCover works image © Tony Price by J S Bach as well as ISBN 978-1-4081-7458-6 Madeleine Mitchell and The Governor pieces inspired by901 0the0 baroque composer General of Australia Also available including9 78 1Beethoven’s408 174586 Sixfrom Bagatelles Bloomsbury and Busoni’s Fantasia nach J S Bach. Junior Department piano teacher Nataša Bloomsbury has published The Lipovšek has announced a week of Alexander Technique for Musicians by masterclasses in Wimbledon in August, teachers Judith Kleinman and Peter culminating with a public concert at St Buckoke. Mark’s Church. For further details visit The book features diagrams and www.natasalipovsek.com photographs to aid the learning Junior Department organ teacher Daniel process as well as step-by-step Moult has edited two publications for procedures and diary entries written Barenreiter: the Easy Bach Organ Album by participating students. Drawn (published 2013) and An Easy Handel from the authors’ 20-plus years of Organ Album (due to be published in experience working with musicians, autumn 2014). He also looks forward the book gives tried-and-tested to the release of a solo recital recording advice for musicians seeking the most on the organ of Arundel Cathedral with from themselves and their art. Regents Records, the first commercial The book is available to purchase for recording of this Victorian instrument £19.99 from the RCM Box Office. since its restoration in 2006.

19 Alumni notes

Pianist Kumi Matsuo has won First Shiry Rashkovsky has been appointed Pianist Alan Chu has performed the Prize at the Louisiana International to the string faculty at Royal Holloway, piano duet version of Stravinsky’s Piano Competition. Her performance University of London as principal viola The Rite of Spring, marking the of Scarlatti, Ravel and Franck in the teacher on the BMus course. She will also work’s centenary. A recording of his semi-finals took her through to the be joining the international faculty of the performance also featured in a film by competition final in which she played Le Altre Note Festival in Italy’s Valtellina celebrated Hong Kong director Maurice Schumann’s Piano Concerto in A minor this summer. Lai. Rite of City explores the problems with the Rapides Symphony Orchestra. faced in Taiwan in the wake of rapid In addition to her $6,000 prize, she has urbanisation and was selected for been awarded a recital at New York’s inclusion in the 66th Cannes Film Festival Carnegie Hall. Short Film Corner. Pianist Emmanuel Despax has released Florian Uhlig has been his debut concert album with Signum appointed Professor of Piano at Classics. The disc features Franck’s the Musikhochschule in Dresden, Variations Symphoniques, Stephen Goss’ Germany. He has also released a Piano Concerto and Saint-Saëns’ Second number of CDs on the Hänssler Piano Concerto in G minor. Classic label including volumes 5 and 6 of his complete Schumann solo recording project, Penderecki’s Piano Concerto ‘Resurrection’ and a disc of piano concertos by Debussy, Françaix, Poulenc and Ravel.

Shiry Rashkovsky

Pianists Aliaksandr Muzykantau, Alexey Chernov and Sofya Gulyak have Emmanuel Despax performed at the Concert Hall in Minsk, Belarus in celebration of their studies Composer Charles Mauleverer has at the RCM. The performances by released Far Above a Midnight Sky, a new the three international prize winners album of romantic classical music. The received standing ovations from a large 18-track album features guitarist Craig audience. Ogden, cellist Adrian Brendel and treble Thomas Blunt has made his debut at Harry Sever, accompanied by the John the Opéra National du Rhin conducting . Wilson Orchestra Rossini’s La Cenerentola. He has also www.vistamusicale.com returned to São Paulo to conduct Rossini’s Petite Messe Solennelle with the Florian Uhlig Cor da Orquestra Sinfônica do Estado de São Paulo. Future plans include performances of the St Matthew Passion Organist Steven Sivyer has released at the Easter St Endellion Festival and Built to InSpire with Regent Records. Leoncavallo’s Pagliacci for Opéra de The recording features the organ at Baugé in France. Faversham Parish Church where Steven was Director of Music for 12 years. Clarence Adoo has received an Honorary Doctorate of Music from Soprano Ruby Hughes has featured in Northumbria University. He has also BBC Radio 3’s Music on The Brink series, released The Sound of Hope, a new DVD which marked the centenary of World and CD featuring collaborations with War One. Ruby performed songs by well-known artists including Sting, Cliff composers in Paris on the eve of the Richard, Jools Holland, Evelyn Glennie First World War including Debussy and and John Rutter. Manuel de Falla.

20 Russell Hepplewhite’s opera for children (commissioned and performed by ETO) has been awarded the International Jury Prize for Best Production at the Armel Opera Competition in Hungary. Laika is the only British opera and the first opera for children to win the Armel Opera Competition’s prize for Best Production. Marek Bracha has released his debut recording of solo piano works by Chopin for the Fryderyk Chopin National Institute in Poland. The album includes Chopin’s Ecossaises op 72, Polonaise in A flat major, op 53 andMazurkas op 17 and op 68. Russell Hepplewhite’s Laika

Clemency Burton-Hill has joined BBC Baritone Gerald Finley and Radio 3’s flagship breakfast show, sharing pianist Julius Drake have recorded the morning programme with Petroc Schubert’s Winterreise, one of the Trelawny. Previously Clemency has composer’s most celebrated song-cycles. fronted BBC Young Musician, the BBC The album was recorded at All Saints’ Proms and Radio 3’s New Generation Church in East Finchley and will be Artists Scheme. released on Hyperion in March. Giles Allen has completed a six month tour of duty in Afghanistan with the British Army. Ordained as a priest in 1996, Giles is currently serving as a member of the Royal Army Chaplains’ Department.

Robert Dick has conducted Bruckner’s 4 Girls 4 Harps has released its second Ninth Symphony with the Orchestra album 4 Girls 4 Harps at Christmas and of the Canongait at the Edinburgh completed a 14 date tour of venues in Fringe. It marked the UK premiere of London and the south east including the 2012 version of the symphony’s final Temple Church, Herstmonceux Castle movement by Nicola Samale, Giuseppe and Asylum Arts. Harriet Adie, Keziah Mazzucca, John Phillips and Benjamin- Thomas, Eleanor Turner and Elizabeth Gunnar Cohrs. The programme also Scorah also featured on BBC Radio 3’s In Tune in December performing carols featured Bruch’s Violin Concerto Clemency Burton-Hill performed by professor Madeleine from the new album. Mitchell. Soprano Elizabeth Watts has sung the role of Zerlina in the Royal Opera House’s 2014 production of Don Giovanni. The new production was directed by ROH Director of Opera Kasper Holten and conducted by Nicola Luisotti. Pianist Nicholas McCarthy has performed at the Pittville Pump Room in Cheltenham. His recital included works by Bach, Scriabin, Chopin and Gershwin. Sarah Connolly has sung the title role of Fantasio in a performance of Jacques Offenbach’s comic opera at the Royal Festival Hall. The rarely heard masterpiece was conducted by Sir Mark Elder with the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment. A recording of the work was made by Opera Rara following the concert. 4 Girls 4 Harps

21 Obituaries

Former piano professor and one of Soirée d’Or committee member, Emma the finest 20th-century interpreters of Rose, died tragically in a diving accident Beethoven Bernard Roberts has died. in the Galapagos Islands on 12 November Born in Manchester, Bernard won a 2013. Emma was a devoted Soirée scholarship to the RCM in 1949 and later d’Or committee member who made a became a piano professor for many years. huge contribution towards the event’s As well as his solo and recording career, preparations. She had been a member he always reserved time for chamber of the committee for seven years and music playing. From 1975 until 1984 he had worked tirelessly and selflessly on was a member of the renowned Parikian- many aspects of the event. She will be Fleming-Roberts Trio. He was often heard remembered especially for being the ‘in- as a chamber player with ensembles house sommelier’, taking responsibility such as the Chilingirian Quartet, the for researching and sourcing the wines Wind Soloists of the English Chamber for the evening. Emma was passionate Orchestra, and with the violinists about supporting the students of the Norbert Brainin and Nona Liddell. He RCM and, in addition to her Soirée d’Or was awarded the FRCM in 1981. work, had funded her own scholarship since 2010 through her trust, the Former viola professor Roger Best died Wyseliot Charitable Trust. Her friends Barbara Boissard on 8 October 2013 aged 77 after a long on the committee and at the RCM pay illness. He taught at the RCM from the tribute to her huge contribution, her mid-seventies to the mid-nineties in kindness and her joyous zest for life. Barbara Boissard, RCM alumna and addition to being principal viola in the former Director of the RCM Junior Northern Sinfonia and a member of Former RCM IT Manager David Rajah Department from 1975–1983, has the Alberni Quartet. He also performed has died. David worked at the RCM from died. Barbara entered Senior College widely as a soloist, with the Northern 1999–2007 and was a well-liked member as a scholar at the age of 16 and Sinfonia commissioning two concertos of staff, described as a ‘real gentleman’ by studied piano with Arthur Benjamin, for him from Sir Richard Rodney Bennett his former colleagues. violin and viola with Loris Blofeld and and Sir Malcolm Arnold. Over the course counterpoint with Herbert Howells, of his life he made numerous recordings Former Registrar of the RCM J R Stainer finally taking the graduate course under including Britten’s Lachrymae for viola has died a few weeks short of his 99th Angela Bull. She was appointed to the and string orchestra and Vaughan birthday. John attended the RCM during role of Deputy Director of the Junior Williams’ Flos Campi. the 1930s studying organ with Henry G Department in 1972 by Michael Gough Ley, piano with Thomas P Fielden, viola Matthews and later became Director Former diplomat and RCM Council with Ernest Tomlinson, theory with in 1975. Colleagues at the time spoke member Sir Humphrey Maud died Professor C H Kitson, composition with of her valuable feminine insight and on 10 November 2013 after suffering Ralph Vaughan Williams and conducting genuine understanding of the students. a major stroke. Humphrey was the with Guy Warrack. It was during his time This, accompanied by her professional son of the pianist Jean Hamilton and at the RCM that he also met his wife, experience and standing, enabled the diplomat and former RCM Chairman Thea. He was appointed Registrar in Junior Department to flourish. She was Baron Redcliffe-Maud. In 1944 his 1959, a post he held until his retirement awarded the FRCM from the late Queen parents got to know Benjamin Britten in 1976. He was awarded the FRCM Mother in 1975. and Peter Pears, and a year later the in 1961. He was a well-liked member composer dedicated The Young Person’s of staff, described by former Director Paul Collen, who worked at the RCM Guide to the Orchestra to Humphrey Keith Falkner as ‘a staunch friend, a fine for more than 25 years, died in October and his three sisters. Humphrey entered musician and a first-class administrator’. 2013 after a short illness. He joined the Foreign Service in 1959, working in the RCM in 1987 as Assistant Keeper Madrid, Havana and Paris. Throughout Former vocal professor and highly in the Department of Portraits and his diplomatic career, he remained an acclaimed soprano Sally Le Sage has Performance History, and proceeded to active amateur cellist, describing it as died aged 76. Sally studied at the RCM, take on a variety of roles, most recently an ‘essential’ part of his life. He served winning an exhibition and many prizes. that of Curatorial and Administrative on the RCM Council from 1993–2002 She later toured the US and Canada with Assistant within the RCM’s Centre for and was also a Trustee of the Prince the Deller Consort until 1967, after which Performance History. Paul developed Consort Foundation from 2002–2007. she won second prize in the prestigious an unrivalled knowledge of the RCM’s In addition, he was a Director of the International Singing Competition in extensive collection of works of art, Orchestra of St John’s Smith Square, a s’Hertogenbosch, the Netherlands. photographs, programmes and personal Trustee of the Parkhouse Chamber Music Sally was well known for her recital and archives. He was also responsible for Award, a member of the Queen’s Medal oratorio work, singing Mozart’s Mass one of the most familiar images of the for Music and also Chairman of Trustees in C minor in London’s Royal Festival Blomfield Building – as seen on one of for Musequality. He was awarded the Hall and performing in many festivals the RCM postcards – as well as for many FRCM in 2002. across Europe. Later in life she taught of the photographs of items from the at the RCM and also at Clare College RCM’s art collection. Cambridge before retiring to Malvern in the early 2000s.

22

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