Head of Strings

Interview date: Friday 17 May 2024

Founded in 1882, The Royal College of Music (RCM) is a world leading music conservatoire with a prestigious history and contemporary outlook. Our excellence was recognised by the 2024 QS World University Rankings, in which we were ranked as the global top institution for both Music and Performing Arts by Subject.

The RCM has a distinguished tradition of string teaching, including bowed strings, harp and guitar, and alumni are found throughout the profession worldwide, and as part of the distinguished history of the College.  The String Faculty attracts students and professors from around the world, and is central to the learning, teaching and musical life of the College.  The position of Head of Strings is a critical role in the College, and the post-holder is expected to continue and develop the world-leading learning and teaching of the faculty. The Head of Strings will be recognised for their experience of the highest level of performance, breadth of outlook, and as an inspirational source to the students and professors of the faculty, and across the College.  Their experience and sympathies should stretch across solo, chamber and orchestral performance.

Applicants should be internationally recognised for their musical achievements, breadth and vision across genres, and leadership with significant international experience at the highest professional level.  They will be noted for their commitment to equality and diversity of opportunity, and knowledge and experience of current trends in performance and engagement.  Experience of teaching and working with tertiary-level students is essential, with a rigorous understanding of current teaching methods and techniques, and an understanding of the requirements of course structure and outcomes.

This role reports to Directorate through the Artistic Director and is an active member of the wider senior management of the College.

The College is committed to advancing equality and inclusive practice in all areas including staff and student recruitment, our teaching and artistic programme, research activity, and our working environment. We especially welcome female applicants and those from Black and ethnically diverse backgrounds who are currently underrepresented at this level within the College. 

This post is offered on a full-time, permanent basis and is available from September 2024.

For full details of this position please read the Applicant Information Pack, available to download from the RCM website: www.rcm.ac.uk/jobs

To apply, please complete our:

and submit in Word or PDF format by email to [email protected]

CVs without an application form will not be accepted.

Please ensure that you include the Job Reference Number when submitting your application.

The RCM is committed to being an equal opportunities employer and to promoting a diverse and inclusive environment for all our staff, students and visitors.