On Tue 3 Nov, RNCM Principal and Chair of Conservatoires UK, Professor Linda Merrick CBE, joined leaders from specialist institutions across England for Excellence in Action at the Courtauld Gallery.
Hosted by the Courtauld Institute of Art and Universities UK, the event celebrated the vital contribution specialist institutions make to the UK’s cultural, creative, and economic success.
As a world-leading conservatoire, the RNCM sees first-hand the impact of specialist education. Our graduates go on to perform, create, teach, and lead across the music profession, enriching communities, driving innovation, and contributing to a globally renowned creative sector. Talent from around the world chooses to study in Manchester, strengthening both the UK’s international reputation and the future of the arts.
Specialist institutions may be small, but they are essential to developing the highly skilled graduates industries depend on. Continued investment is critical if they are to maintain their world-class offer. Since 2015 – 16, Strategic Priorities Grant funding has fallen by 42% in real terms and by 59% per student.
Bringing together policymakers, sector leaders, and industry partners, Excellence in Action is was an opportunity to highlight the value of specialist institutions and ensure they can continue delivering exceptional outcomes for students, employers, and society.
The event also featured a performance from the RNCM’s Fractal Quartet.
