Kevin Gowland

Kevin Gowland serves as the Head of the School of Wind, Brass and Percussion and Director of Woodwind at the Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM), where he is also a Professor of Flute. With a distinguished career spanning over three decades, he previously held the position of Flute Section Leader with the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra under Sir Simon Rattle for 17 years. He transitioned to academia in 2017, becoming a Flute Tutor at RNCM before advancing to Deputy Head of SWBP and Director of Woodwind in 2018. In September 2022, he officially assumed the role of Head of School.

As a performer, Gowland has collaborated with renowned orchestras such as the London Symphony Orchestra, Philharmonia, and BBC Symphony Orchestra. He has appeared as a concerto soloist under conductors like Sir Simon Rattle, Valery Gergiev, and Sir Mark Elder, showcasing his expertise across the flute concerto repertoire. His recitals have graced venues like the Purcell Room and the inaugural events at The Howard Assembly Room, Leeds.

Gowland’s pedagogical contributions include masterclasses at institutions like the Royal College of Music and the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama. He has also served as a panelist for competitions such as the National Flute Association’s High School Soloist competition and the BBC Young Musician of the Year. His leadership at RNCM focuses on advancing wind, brass, and percussion education while maintaining a strong connection to professional orchestral performance.