Your Choice: Lucy Hale

Name: Lucy Hale (1994 – 2021)

Role: Alumna and Composer

You said…

‘Lucy gained a Master’s with distinction from the RNCM in 2018. She was physically disabled, a wheelchair user and had suffered multiple periods of critical illness. Over time, increasing frailty resulted in the loss of her ability to sing and play any instruments, so she turned to composition. She was a voracious learner, prolific in her output and delighted in her place at the RNCM. She used her talents to mentor other disabled young people and to raise awareness, but also before her death in 2021 had gained positions within several national orchestras and more generally in the orchestral music world. Lucy faced her difficulties with grace, wicked humour, imagination and fierce intelligence.’ Nicky Hale

‘Lucy was a great composer, supportive colleague, and inspirational mentor. She was a trailblazer in so many ways, both due to her championing of others with disabilities and to her distinctive musical voice. She deserves to be recognised as one of the 50 people who have shaped the College through its history.’ Anna Appleby

‘Lucy was a remarkable composer, artist, and friend, who spoke of the RNCM with great joy. Her music thrilled and captivated many within and outside the building. Her untimely passing has been felt deeply by so many, and for her to be commemorated in this way would ensure a lasting impression for the RNCM body and beyond.’ Ryan Gleave

‘Lucy’s legacy is significant in the field of composition, not only as a prolific writer, but as a mentor to young disabled composers. A true role model for what can be achieved, she has even inspired other disabled composers to study at the RNCM.’ Matt Whitham

‘[Lucy] was actively involved in introducing and supporting other young people with life challenges to
the world of music. She was, and continues to be,
an inspiration to others.’ Maeve Murphy