*
banner

End of era at Scottish Academy

A new chapter begins at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama as a great Head of Brass takes a final bow.

rcs
 

From the 1st September the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama will be known as the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, bringing to the end another chapter in the history of the highly regarded institution.

Concept

The concept of an aspiring training facility can be traced back to 1847 (Glasgow Athenaeum), having had its name changed to the RSAMD in 1968.

Nigel Boddice, who lectures on instrumental performance told 4BR: "The new era will see the institution embrace the future and forge ahead with confidence in many a subject material to include music, drama, film, dance, jazz and traditional Scottish music."

End of era

September 1st will equally be the end of an era in the world renowned brass department at the RSAMD too.

After 15 years as Head of Brass, Bryan Allen is leaving his post to enjoy the next chapter of his life and career.

Nigel added: "Bryan has done as much as anybody in Scotland to fuel a wonderful renaissance, now enjoyed by all Scottish brass outlets. There are many professional players around the world indebted to his guidance, all having enjoyed the extended family feeling cultivated for the students from within the RSAMD."

Bryan has done as much as anybody in Scotland to fuel a wonderful renaissance, now enjoyed by all Scottish brass outletsNigel Boddice

Respect

He added: "There is so much respect from his brass staff colleagues too for the support and opportunity facilitated and shared throughout his tenure. There has been equally more brass band activity [and concert band activity] gifted to the amateur music making world through Bryan’s enterprise, as such, more than anyone can mind in living memory."

Brass band return

Nigel concluded: "He therefore leaves with much for all music lovers to reflect upon, and to be grateful and appreciative. On the upside though, there will be more time now for Bryan to return to the brass band fold and use his vast experience as a conductor and adjudicator for the good of all — not to mention his expertise as a first class professional trumpeter."

Become a supporter and help make our future secure.

4barsrest continues to be a proudly independent voice. There are no paywalls to overcome to be able to enjoy what we do to keep our journalism at the heart of the brass banding world. Support us with a one-off donation or subscribe from just £2.50 per month.

Support us    


Perth

Deadline looms for Scottish Open entries

July 26 • The deadline for the Scottish Open Championship supported by Besson is fast approaching.


Easington Colliery Band

New trio joins Easington

July 26 • The trombone, cornet and bass sections of the North East band welcome new signings.


Nailsworth

Kane takes the baton at Nailsworth

July 26 • The vastly experienced Derick Kane is the new Musical Director of Nailsworth Silver Band.


Elland Silver Band

Elland Silver Slow Melody, Duet & Quartet Contest calls for entries

July 26 • The closing date for the popular event is fast approaching — so get you entries in.


Sherborne Town Band - Free Music in the park

Sunday 26 July • Sherborne, Dorset-Pageant Gardens DT9 3NP


Sherborne Town Band - Free Summer Concert- Trowbridge Park

Sunday 9 August • Summer Concert- Trowbridge Park BA14 8AH


Regent Hall Concerts - Cross Bones Trombone Quintet

Friday 21 August • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Sherborne Town Band - Free-Music in the park

Sunday 23 August • Sherborne, Dorset-Pageant Gardens DT9 3NP


Sherborne Town Band - Free-Music in the park

Sunday 13 September • Sherborne, Dorset-Pageant Gardens DT9 3NP


Tintwistle Band

July 25 • are looking for a new MD to lead our friendly and committed band as we continue to build on our proud traditions and look towards an exciting future.If you enjoy helping musicians of all ages and abilities reach their potential,we’d love to hear from you!


Ashington Colliery Band

July 24 • Front Row Cornet & Tenor Trombone. We're a friendly, ambitious Second Section band based in South East Northumberland just north of Blyth. We rehearse Tuesdays & Thursdays, 19:30-21:30, and transport can be provided depending on location.


Rushden Town Band

July 23 • Trombone and Bb bass positions available.


Phillip Littlemore

GGSM, AoBBA Member
Conductor, Band Trainer, Adjudicator, Arranger, Teacher and Publisher


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd