Composition

The Department has strong links with all the professional organisations in Scotland, including the BBC Symphony Orchestra, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Scottish Chamber Orchestra, Paragon Ensemble, Scottish Opera and the Glasgow School of Art.

Previous composers-in-residence have included Judith Weir and James MacMillan, and they have been joined by a growing number of composers who have discussed their work at the RSAMD, including, among others, Sir Harrison Birtwistle, Thomas Ades, Mark-Anthony Turnage, HK Gruber, Louis Andriessen, Jonathan Harvey and Lyell Cresswell.

The Department has created a particular focus on contemporary music which reflects the vibrancy of the city. The renowned Hebrides Ensemble gives public performances and workshops of work by student composers, and has premiered over 30 new works by Academy composers as part of our ongoing masterclass programme.

Head of Department: Gordon McPherson
Email: g.mcpherson@rsamd.ac.uk