Patrick King announced as RWCMD Head of Percussion
The Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama are delighted to announce Patrick King as its new Head of Percussion. As Principal Timpanist with the WNO, Pat brings a wealth of first hand experience of the ever-changing world of classical music, to lead and inspire students. Kevin Price, Director of Music commented on the appointment: “Patrick is a leading light in the percussion world, and his reputation as an exponent of his art in the concert hall, and in an educational environment, will enable him to guide the department and to support the future of our young musicians.”
Pat King, who has been coordinating the percussion department for the last two years, has been passionate about outreach work since he was a student stating, “As percussion is such an accessible instrument it makes the ideal starting point for creating music for beginners. I’m really looking forward to working with the already established outreach department here.”
Commenting on the role Pat continued, “One of the many things I love about this course here at RWCMD, is that it’s such a tight-knit community of both staff and students. The College has a real team spirit as a whole and everyone works together to create the best and most inspirational space in which to work.”
Employability is becoming an increasingly important element of music teaching, and Pat works with tutors at the RWCMD such as Owen Gunnell from O Duo stating: “It’s important that we also take a fresh approach to employability: in our changing profession it’s important to recognise that training isn’t just about being in an orchestra. O Duo is a great example of the many faces of a modern career in percussion.”
Patrick will be leading The Big Bash on Saturday Feb 16th, one of a series of the College’s Instrument Days where delegates are invited to Join the staff and students of the College’s percussion department for a high energy day of workshops, clinics and performances for players of all levels. Please call 029 2039 1365 or emailjunior.conservatoire@rwcmd.ac.ukto register.
