Adam Swayne

Adam Swayne is Deputy Head of the School of Keyboard Studies and Professor of Piano at the Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM). He holds a MusB (Hons), MMus, DM (Northwestern University, USA), GRNCM, and is a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (SFHEA). His roles include co-Artistic Director of Riot Ensemble and pianist with the Broken Line Trio. Previously, he taught at the University of Chichester and Junior Royal Academy of Music.

• Education:
• MusB (Hons) and MMus from University of Manchester/RNCM
• Doctorate (DM) from Northwestern University as a Fulbright Scholar

Research Interests: Adam focuses on 19th-century concerto performance (e.g., Ferdinand Ries), contemporary music, and the intersection of music and society. He collaborates with composers like Kevin Malone and Nina Whiteman, and his work is documented in albums like 9/11:20 (commemorating the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks) and (speak to me): new music new politics.

Notable Articles/Trends: His recent output explores catastrophe responses in music (e.g., Earthed), avant-garde techniques, and historical rediscovery of classical works. Concertos and ensemble premieres dominate his performance portfolio, emphasizing interdisciplinary and politically charged themes.

• Awards:
• Fulbright Scholar
• Opus Klassik nominations for (speak to me)
• Siemens Foundation Ensemble Prize (Riot Ensemble)

Advising & Grants: Supervises PhD students in piano performance history and cultural studies. Funded by the Arts Council England and Garfield Weston Foundation. External examiner for University of Bristol, Royal College of Music, and Leeds Conservatoire.

Labs/Teams: Co-leads Riot Ensemble (internationally touring contemporary music group) and directs RNCM’s Keyboard Studies, fostering innovation in performance and composition.