Jacob Shaw

Jacob Shaw is Professor of Cello at the Royal Northern College of Music and Visiting International Chair of Cello at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama. An internationally acclaimed British cellist with a career spanning nearly two decades across five continents, he has performed at major concert venues including Carnegie Hall, Berlin Konzerthaus, and Royal Albert Hall. Based in Denmark for over 15 years, he balances his academic roles with leadership of the innovative Scandinavian Cello School.

Shaw's research interests focus on transformative approaches to music education, particularly through his groundbreaking work at the Scandinavian Cello School (SCS), which he founded in 2016. His research spans three key areas: Biodiversity and Sustainability in Performing Arts (2022-2025), Mental Health within Elite Classical Music Training (2016-2024), and the MERITAcubed European partnership project (2025-2029). The SCS represents a holistic approach to music education that combines world-class training with mental wellness practices, sustainable living, and community engagement.

His recent publications reveal a consistent focus on innovative approaches to cello performance and music education. The 2024 Strad article 'The Road to Vienna' and corresponding recording explore performance preparation, while the 2021 New York Times feature highlighted his unique 'Musical Farm' concept that went viral with 2.1 billion views. His work increasingly emphasizes the integration of sustainability practices, mental wellness, and community engagement within classical music training.

His scientific recognition includes the Danish National Radio Firesoul Award for his mental health work in music education, along with numerous competition prizes during his performing career. Additional honors stem from the viral success of SCS, which has been featured in major global media outlets.

Shaw has secured substantial research funding including support from the Danish Arts Council, Augustinus Foundation, W. Demant Foundation, Greenland Resources, and most significantly a €2.8 million grant from Creative Europe. His advisory work extends through SCS Consultancy, serving industry leaders like Deutsche Grammophon and business clients including Ernst & Young and McKinsey & Company. In 2022, he served as Director of Culture for the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Stevns Klint.

The Scandinavian Cello School operates from a historic 1800s farm near the UNESCO World Heritage site of Stevns Klint in Denmark, welcoming approximately 150 guests annually. The school has gained international recognition for its unique ethos that achieves a healthy work-life balance alongside world-class music training. Outreach concerts, outdoor experiences, and collective living form part of their philosophy to create more balanced and ultimately better musicians. The school has succeeded in bringing classical music to new audiences in untraditional surroundings, challenging and strengthening both international and Danish musical talents.