Posted on: 15 February 2013
RIAM to become Associated College of Trinity with the aim of developing an International Centre of Excellence in the Performing Arts
The Royal Irish Academy of Music (RIAM) and Trinity College Dublin (TCD) have entered a new partnership, fostering academic links for the benefit of performing arts education and creative arts practice in Ireland. Building on its existing relationship with TCD, the RIAM will become an Associated College of Trinity College, with its undergraduate and postgraduate programmes validated by Trinity College. The Provost of Trinity, Dr Prendergast and the RIAM Director Deborah Kelleher signed a Memorandum of Understanding this week.
Trinity College has a long track record in performing arts education and research at the School of Drama, Film and Music. Recent developments include the Creative Arts, Technologies and Cultures initiative, and the foundation of the Lir, the National Academy of Dramatic Art and the Music Composition Centre.
The Royal Irish Academy of Music’s history of success in music performance education spans over 160 years. Today, by providing instrumental and vocal tuition of the highest international standard, the RIAM holds a central place in the promotion of Ireland’s cultural and educational agenda.
Brian Aylward, RIAM, Deborah Kelleher, RIAM, TCD Provost, Dr Patrick Prendergast and Prof Michael Marsh, TCD.
Commenting on its significance, Provost, Dr Patrick Prendergast said: “Building on each institution’s expertise, together we aim to develop an internationally renowned centre of excellence in the performing arts. Linking research to practice and focusing on the interface between innovation and tradition are key values that Trinity and the RIAM share. This collaboration will specifically concentrate on the future education and training of performing arts students, the performance of new music compositions as well as the enhancement of teacher music education.”
RIAM Director, Deborah Kelleher welcomed the new partnership stating: “By maximising collaborative creativity and resources, as well as the education and artistic strengths of both institutions, we are confident that we can develop a dynamic and thriving partnership which will foster and nurture outstanding twenty-first-century musicians.”
