After a connection to Victoria College of Music & Drama of over 32 years, College Principal Dr. Martin Ellerby has announced he will be retiring at the end of the 2022 summer term 2022.

Originally appointed as Centenary Composer in 1990 and a familiar name as an examiner in the early 1990s, he became Vice-Principal in 1995 and accepted the role of Principal in 1997.

He steps down from the influential role after successfully combining his position with a career that has seen him become one of the most recognised composers for brass and wind band in the world.

He has stated that he will now concentrate on new areas of compositional activity.

Highly respected

A spokesperson for the college said: "Dr Ellerby has been a highly respected teacher and examiner alongside his career as a renowned composer. He has also been a constant and revered member of the VCM leadership team throughout his long association with us.

His experience and enthusiasm will be missed as we develop further the new partnerships and revival of the teaching department he wholeheartedly supported."

He has also been a constant and revered member of the VCM leadership team throughout his long association with usCollege spokesperson

Honoured

It is understood that in recognition of his service the College has awarded him its highest honour — the Fellowship of the College of Violinists in conjunction with it partners, Logos University International, the honorary degree of Doctor of Music.

An announcement on his successor will be made in due course.