The Royal Northern College of Music has announced the appointments of Dr John Habron and Robert Gardiner as Head of Music Education and Assistant Head of Music Education (PGCE) respectively. Both men will take up their posts in January.

New appointments

Dr John Habron, who initially trained as a composer, has previously worked as a Senior Lecturer in Music at Coventry University.

He is also Senior Research Fellow at North-West University, South Africa, and a Visiting Scholar at the University of Manchester's Centre for the History of Science, Technology & Medicine during 2017.

In his capacity as Head of Music Education, he will lead the development of the RNCM's music education curriculum as well as teach and supervise undergraduate and postgraduate students, and undertake individual and collaborative research activity.

He told 4BR: "I'm absolutely delighted to be taking up this new position. Music education is a vitally important resource for people of all ages and abilities, and I'm excited about helping students and staff play an increasingly active role in developing the discipline in practical and reflective ways."

Music education is a vitally important resource for people of all ages and abilities, and I'm excited about helping students and staff play an increasingly active role in developing the discipline in practical and reflective waysDr John Habron

Privilege

Meanwhile, Robert Gardiner studied as an undergraduate at the RNCM, and completed a PGCE at Manchester Metropolitan University and the RNCM, as well as obtaining a master's degree at Zurich University of the Arts.

A professional clarinettist, he has worked professionally as an education practitioner throughout the North West, covering all aspects of music education. In his new role he will work as an RNCM Tutor and lead the PGCE Music with Specialist Instrument Teacher (McSIT), awarded by Manchester Metropolitan University.

He added: "I feel privileged to be leading such a unique and inspirational PGCE programme that has enabled so many fabulous educators. I look forward to helping to develop the RNCM education project alongside John and feel sure there will be many interesting and exciting ventures to come."