Brass

We believe that we're the Conservatoire of choice for brass. Here are some reasons why:

• We’ve been voted number 1 for music in the Guardian survey of British Conservatoires, and our Principal is renowned trumpeter John Wallace. The Brass Department has two full-time members of staff in addition to a visiting team of 25 specialist tutors drawn from all the major orchestras and ensembles in Scotland, including RSNO, BBCSSO, SCO and Scottish Opera. This also means that entry is very competitive and standards are high.
    
• The amount of individual principal study tuition is 90 minutes per week – higher than any other UK Conservatoire, with an additional 30 minutes on a related family instrument, such as natural trumpet, alto trombone, contrabass trombone and cimbasso.
    
• Compared to other Conservatoires, we’ve a relatively small Brass Department, with approximately 40 students in total. This is sufficient to service the larger activities such as Symphony Orchestra and Opera, but small enough to give fantastic performance opportunities. This also allows for a highly personal and individual programme, enabling you to flourish at your own pace in a warm and friendly environment.  
    
• Glasgow benefits from musical activity of all types. Five orchestras are based here, and we operate apprenticeship and mentoring schemes with several of them. Glasgow also offers unparalleled employment opportunities for brass players. Our students benefit from side by side schemes with Scottish Opera, RSNO, BBCSSO and Philharmonia Orchestra. In addition, there are enviable concerto opportunities with both the BBCSSO and RSNO.  
       
• You’ll benefit from a wide range of weekly classes delivered by an expert team of specialists. These include classes in orchestral, ensemble and solo repertoire, in contemporary and period performance, and in technique and performance. In addition, masterclasses are given by renowned international musicians and our recently appointed International Fellow is Ian Bousfield, Principal trombone player of the Vienna Philharmonic. 
    
• You’ll be provided with a professional accompanist during your studies for recitals, performance classes, auditions, competitions and exams. 
    
• We’re housed in fantastic, purpose-built facilities right in the heart of Glasgow’s cultural district and enjoy exceptional rehearsal and performance spaces. There is a bespoke Brass practice room and a music store including period instruments. 
    
• Accommodation and the cost of living is much cheaper than some other major cities. Most of our students live within easy walking distance and not spend lots of time and money negotiating public transport.