The Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM) has announced the appointment of Nicholas Thompson as its next Head of the School of Wind, Brass & Percussion.
He will join from his position as Principal Trumpet of the Chamber Orchestra of Europe (a seat he has held for almost 30 years) in September.
Lead role
He recently played a lead role in the orchestra's education projects and collaborations, including working with brass players of the National Youth Orchestra of Catalonia and the European Union Youth Orchestra.
"I'm absolutely thrilled to be taking up this position at the RNCM,"he told 4BR.
"Over the last two years I've been fortunate to have the chance to work with RNCM students and staff, and to now have the opportunity to engage with the whole school on a day-to-day basis is extremely exciting.
I look forward to getting to know and work with the wider Manchester and North West music communities, and to strengthening the RNCM's partnerships, reach and reputation."
World class
Commenting on the new appointment, RNCM Principal Prof Linda Merrick told 4BR: "We are very excited that Nicholas will be joining us. His vast experience as both a world-class performer and as a highly regarded teacher within the higher education sector nationally and internationally consolidates the College's position as a leading provider for wind, brass and percussion training."
I look forward to getting to know and work with the wider Manchester and North West music communities, and to strengthening the RNCM's partnerships, reach and reputationNicholas Thompson
Tribute
The appointment sees Thompson replace Prof John Miller, who joined the College as Director of Brass Studies 17 years ago before taking up the position of Deputy Head of the School of Wind, Brass & Percussion in 2007 and Head of School in 2013.
Paying tribute Prof Merrick added: "I would like to thank John on behalf of the RNCM for his exemplary leadership of the School of Wind, Brass & Percussion and I'm delighted he will be remaining with us in a part-time capacity."
