Adam Swayne appointed Deputy Head of Keyboard Studies

We’re delighted to announce the appointment of Adam Swayne as Deputy Head of the School of Keyboard Studies.

No stranger to the College, Adam studied on the RNCM’s Joint Course with The University of Manchester, taking lessons with John Gough and earning a Thomas Beecham medal in 2001. In 2003 he was awarded a Fulbright scholarship to study for a doctorate with Professor Ursula Oppens at Northwestern University, USA.

Since graduating, Adam has established a successful teaching career, having taught at the University of Chichester and Junior RAM before returning to the RNCM in 2017 as a Lecturer in Music. As a performer and recording artist, his recital CD (speak to me) was selected as a BBC Music Magazine monthly choice and was the only album to be nominated in two categories at the 2019 Opus Klassik Awards in Germany. A co-founder of The Riot Ensemble, he performs contemporary music extensively, is a specialist in 19th century concertos (particularly those of Ferdinand Ries) and plays romantic chamber music with The John Ireland Trio. Adam is also a composer whose works have been broadcast on BBC television and a conductor who has directed from the keyboard.

Adam takes up his new role at the start of the Summer Term, replacing Ashley Wass, who is joining the Yehudi Menuhin School as Director of Music.  

He said: ‘I’m honoured to be joining such a stellar department. Since I returned to the RNCM as a Lecturer in 2017, I’ve been wowed by the performances by our pianists and I’m excited to support them more extensively throughout their studies. Ashley Wass has left big shoes to fill, and those shoes have also been worn by RNCM legends Helen Krizos and Mark Ray, so I have plenty to live up to!’

Graham Scott, Head of School, added: ‘I am delighted to welcome Adam in his new role as Deputy Head of the School of Keyboard Studies. Adam is no stranger to the RNCM having previously made an outstanding contribution to academic studies and research. In this new position he brings a wide and varied experience of having played many concerts encompassing everything from classical concertos to contemporary repertoire. He has performed in many prestigious venues both at home and abroad most notably on BBC Radio 3 and at the BBC Proms. I am looking forward to working with him in this new position.’