The Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama has been praised for providing 'a pivotal role' in conservatoire education as part of the cultural life of Wales.

The independent review by Lord Murphy of Torfaen — the former Labour Party Secretary of State for Northern Ireland and for Wales — looked at conservatoire and performing arts provision in Higher Education in Wales.

Tribute

It paid tribute to the College's development since 2006, advancing recommendations for funding to support the characteristic teaching model of RWCMD as a world class conservatoire, and suggested options for future development of the College's national role.

Speaking in response to the report, Gareth Williams, Chair of the University of South Wales, and a former Chair of the RWCMD Board, said; "Lord Murphy's report is a significant contribution to our thinking.

We warmly welcome the opportunity to engage with the Review so that we can have the deepest possible consideration of the best way to ensure that the Royal Welsh College can continue to grow its role in delivering highly skilled performers and practitioners to the creative and cultural industries."

It paid tribute to the College's development since 2006, advancing recommendations for funding to support the characteristic teaching model of RWCMD as a world class conservatoire4BR

Brass band study

The Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama attracts young artists from around 50 countries to provide a constant flow of emerging talent into the music, theatre industries and related professions — including those on its highly respected brass band study course.

The college recently appointed Roger Argente as it new Head of Brass Performance, whilst Dr Robert Childs has led the acclaimed brass band course for many years.