Jeffrey Sharkey

Jeffrey Sharkey is Professor and Principal of the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland since 2014, leading Scotland's national conservatoire across disciplines including music, drama, and production. Previously served as Director of Johns Hopkins' Peabody Institute (2006-2014) and Dean of the Cleveland Institute of Music. Holds academic leadership roles in the UK, including directorships at Purcell School and Wells Cathedral School where he established the composition department. A pianist and composer, Sharkey maintains active performance roles with orchestras like the Baltimore Symphony and collaborations with elite quartets.

• Education: Manhattan School of Music (double major in piano/composition), Yale University (M.Mus.), University of Cambridge (MPhil)

Research interests focus on bridging classical performance traditions with contemporary educational innovation, particularly through cross-disciplinary programs and international conservatoire partnerships in Asia and Europe. His administrative work emphasizes community outreach through free music/dance initiatives and pathways for underprivileged talent.

Performance works emphasize chamber music (piano trios/quartets) and modern classical compositions. Notable collaborations include the Royal Scottish National Orchestra and choreographic integrations.

Notable professional milestones include revitalizing Peabody's curriculum, establishing Singapore's Yong Siew Toh Conservatory's strategic direction, and developing music education frameworks in Korea/Taiwan/China.