New principal for Welsh College
A NEW principal has been appointed to lead Wales’ national conservatoire after a worldwide search.
Professor Helena Gaunt will take up the post at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama from interim principal Professor George Caird in September.
She is currently vice-principal and director of innovation at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London.
Prof Gaunt said: “I am delighted to be joining the Royal Welsh College at this exciting time in its development.
“Already established as a world-class institution in Wales with an outstanding performance programme and educational opportunities, the stage is set to deepen and extend the college’s impact both in Wales and internationally.
“There is now an opportunity to further enhance the key role the college plays in the growth of the creative industries, helping to power artistic quality and cultural innovation, and widening access to creative education.”
Prof Gaunt studied at Cambridge, London and Essex universities, as well as Guildhall School and Institute of Education and has an MBA from Ashridge Business School.
She was an Associate of the Centre for Musical Performance as Creative Practice (CMPCP), and a member of the research team for Creative Works London. Her current interests include the position of artists in society and creative entrepreneurship.