Woodwind
At the Conservatoire you’ll receive an intensive and thorough training, based on
the principal of one-to-one lessons which are delivered by leading soloists and musicians from
professional orchestras and chamber groups. Our tutors are enthusiastic and supportive, creating an
environment that is both caring and demanding, and the weekly 90 minute principal study lessons are
enhanced by regular
masterclasses with distinguished,
international musicians including Wissam Boustany, Meyrick Alexander, Maurice Bourgue, and Anthony
Pay. We’ve also appointed Lorna McGhee, principal flautist with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra,
as our International Fellow who visits several times a year to work with students.
Teamwork is central to our Woodwind programme and our relatively small size ensures close
contact with the Head of Department and regular updates about auditions, competitions and
professional work. Through an enormous and diverse range of performance opportunities, we will
challenge and inspire your individuality as a musician. We encourage you to form your own ensembles
and offer professional coaching to support your work. Symphony, Chamber and Wind Orchestra
concerts, opera productions, wind ensembles and chamber groups are also regular highlights and the
Stevenson Winds are a
particular feature of the department.
Glasgow is a vibrant city and we enjoy
professional
collaborations with Scotland’s major orchestras, operating apprenticeships with the RSNO,
BBCSSO and The Orchestra of Scottish Opera. This year we also hosted a series of professional
recitals and masterclasses as part of the Howarth Double Reed Day, an example of our continuing
professional collaborations.
Our students tell us you get out what you put in here and that the quality of teaching,
facilities and performing opportunities will give you the best possible start to your performing
career. Find out more highlights about the Woodwind programme and
why you should study
here.
Head of Woodwind:
Heather Nicoll
Email:
woodwind@rcs.ac.uk
