Tim Watts

Tim Watts holds dual affiliations as a Professor at the Royal College of Music (University of London) and a Fellow of St John's College, Cambridge (University of Cambridge). He is a composer, pianist, and teacher whose work integrates text, theatre, and astronomy.

His educational background includes:

• Composition studies with Jeffery Wilson, Hugh Wood, and Robin Holloway
• Accompanist training at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, supported by an award from The Countess of Munster Musical Trust

Watts' creative research focuses on music composition, improvisation, and interdisciplinary projects. He has produced works such as the opera Kepler’s Trial (2017), described as 'musically and dramatically compelling', and a series of astronomically inspired compositions during his residency at the Institute of Astronomy in Cambridge. These include the Kepler-Motets, The Ordinances of Heaven, Starfruit, and A World in the Moone. His interests also extend to ensemble improvisation, particularly through the exploration of Pauline Oliveros' work and sonic meditation, which he employs as a compositional tool.

He has extensive experience as an improvising pianist for dance and theatre, and has led improvisation workshops in educational settings. His compositions span orchestral, chamber, vocal, and choral genres, commissioned by ensembles including the European Union Chamber Orchestra and Southbank Sinfonia.