Robin Humphreys is a Professor at the Royal Northern College of Music and a senior music coach within the School of Vocal Studies and Opera . He holds a BMus Hons from the University of Birmingham and a prestigious Diploma in Professional Performance (PPRNCM) from the Royal Northern College of Music. Education : BMus Hons, University of Birmingham Diploma in Professional Performance, Royal Northern College of Music Humphreys has had a 40-year career as an accompanist and répétiteur, praised as "world-class" by Louise Flind for "Opera Today". His work spans classical and operatic repertoire, with notable collaborations including the Manchester Camerata , Feelgood Theatre Productions , and Clonter Opera Theatre in Cheshire. As a vocal coach, he specializes in 1-1 coaching , excerpt preparation , and operatic repertoire performance. He served as chief répétiteur for most college opera productions from the late 1990s until 2013 and toured globally with Opera & Concert Productions (Worldwide) Ltd from 1990–2000. His affiliations include the British & International Federation of Festivals , where he was a member for 35 years, and the RNCM , where he studied piano accompaniment under David Lloyd.
Professor Julian Philips is Head of Composition at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama, where he also holds a Professorship (conferred 2014). A Welsh-born composer with degrees from Emmanuel College, Cambridge (FGS, DPhil, MA Cantab), he specializes in operatic, choral, and vocal works. His compositions blend literary sources with innovative musical structures, particularly in settings of Emily Dickinson, Dylan Thomas, and John Clare. Notable roles include Glyndebourne Opera's first Composer-in-Residence (2006-2009) and creator of the Guildhall School's Opera-Making & Writing MA program. Education: FGS, DPhil, MA (Cantab) from Emmanuel College, Cambridge Research focuses on text-music relationships , with acclaimed works like Turning Fifty (2019), How the Whale Became (2013), and the Middle English opera The Tale of Januarie (2017). His ballets ( Les Liaisons Dangereuses , The Snow Queen ) and symphonic works ( Ballades Concertantes ) further showcase his versatility. Recent projects include Henny Penny (2021 children's opera) and Ted Hughes settings for the Little Missenden Festival. Awards: Honorary Fellow (Guildhall, 2007), British Composer Award nomination (2009). Advising & Grants: Established the Royal Opera House Doctoral Composer-in-Residence scheme. Current projects include Vaughan Williams anniversary work Looking West (2022) and a horn/tenor/piano piece for Oxford Lieder Festival.
David Jones is the Head of Accompaniment and a Lecturer in Piano at the Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM). He holds roles as Staff Pianist Co-ordinator, Junior RNCM Tutor, and academic supervisor. His career spans over 25 years, including a PhD on Jeffrey Lewis's music (2011) and extensive editorial work for Cathedral Press. He specializes in 19th-20th century French and British music, with a focus on accompaniment, mélodie, and opera coaching. Education: BMus (First Class Honours, University of Wales, Bangor), PGDip and MusM (RNCM). Research interests include music archiving, collaborative performance practices, and the works of overlooked composers like Jeffrey Lewis and Robin Stevens. He supervises PhD students on topics such as Arnold Cooke, Louise Farrenc, and Gabriel Pierné. Professional Activities: Pianist for Hallé Choir, founder of Altèri chamber choir, ABRSM examiner (2005-2019). Recordings: Over 10 albums featuring Lewis, Stevens, Bingham, and Williamson. Recent releases include Robin Stevens' Chasing Shadows (2023) and Blooms of Dublin (Anthony Burgess project, 2022). Current projects include archiving Jeffrey Lewis's manuscripts and preparing the Anthony Burgess Foundation's Joycean music collections. His teaching includes undergrad electives on French mélodie and 19th-century opera, alongside postgraduate accompaniment coaching.
Gavin Roberts is a Professor of Vocal and Academic Studies at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama, where he also serves as a staff pianist. He is the Artistic Director of Song in the City, a platform commissioning new works and presenting over 150 concerts on socially-engaged themes. His roles include accompanist, conductor, and collaborative artist across festivals such as the Oxford Lieder Festival and Monodrama Festival, Luxembourg. He holds a Master’s in piano accompaniment from Guildhall School, a Music degree from Gonville and Caius College, Cambridge, and another Master’s from King’s College London. He was Organist and Director of Music at St Marylebone Parish Church (2014–2022) and is a Fellow of the Royal College of Organists. Roberts’ work emphasizes interdisciplinary collaborations, such as choreographed performances with Rambert and fashion shows at London Fashion Week. He frequently premieres new compositions, including the CD project 'Voices of London' with composers like Raymond Yiu. His artistic direction focuses on socially conscious themes and partnerships with poets, actors, and visual artists. Key engagements include recitals at Wigmore Hall, Barbican Hall, and international festivals, alongside conducting roles with ensembles like the BBC Singers and Academy of Ancient Music. His projects often integrate mental health advocacy, such as 'Creative Minds in Song,' which commissions songs based on poems by mental health service users.
Andrew Davidson is a Senior Lecturer in Acting & Musical Theatre and Programme Leader for the BA (Hons) Theatre at the Guildford School of Acting (GSA), University of Surrey, within the Faculty of Arts, Business and Social Sciences. He is also a Fellow of the Institute for People-Centred AI, Academic Integrity Officer, Chair of Validation Panel, LGBTQIA+ Awareness Trainer, Wellbeing Champion, and Mental Health First Aider at the university. A graduate of NIDA and the University of Sydney, he holds advanced qualifications in Dalcroze Eurhythmics and Kodály Musicianship, and is completing a PhD by Prior Publication at Surrey. His educational background includes: Master of Music, Longy School of Music of Bard College, USA Postgraduate Diploma in Directing, National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA), Australia Postgraduate Diploma in Composition, University of Sydney, Australia Bachelor of Arts in Theatre, University of New South Wales (UNSW), Australia Bachelor of Music (Honours Class I), University of New South Wales (UNSW), Australia Diplôme Supérieur, Institut Jaques-Dalcroze (IJD), Switzerland Certificate in Kodály Music Education, British Kodály Academy (BKA), UK Cambridge CELTA, University of Technology Sydney (UTS), Australia Andrew Davidson's research centers on the intersections of theatre, music, and movement in performer training, with a strong emphasis on wellbeing in the performing arts. His work explores embodied learning, the role of rhythm, and pedagogical connections between Dalcroze Eurhythmics and actor training methodologies such as Meisner Technique and Viewpoints. He investigates how listening, improvisation, and creative collaboration enhance performance training and student resilience. His research is interdisciplinary, bridging music education, sociology, and theatre pedagogy to develop holistic approaches in conservatoire education. His publications demonstrate a consistent focus on the integration of music and movement in actor training, particularly through Dalcroze principles. Key themes include listening as a core skill, the influence of historical institutions like Hellerau, and wellbeing frameworks derived from solfege systems. His work spans journals such as Theatre, Dance and Performance Training , Research in Dance Education , and Stanislavski Studies , as well as international conference presentations and book chapters on resilience and pedagogy. Andrew Davidson has received several recognitions, including: ATYP Tutor of the Year (2006) Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA) Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts (FRSA) Fellow of the Institute for People-Centred AI Vice President of Fédération Internationale des Enseignants de Rythmique (FIER) He has advised students such as Denise Silvey, and his leadership extends to external roles including External Examiner for Staffordshire University partner institutions and editorial board membership for Le Rythme . He has directed numerous productions across acting, musical theatre, and opera, and continues to contribute to curriculum development and educational innovation in the performing arts.
Elizabeth Byrum Linnartz is an Instructor of Music at Duke University’s Trinity College of Arts & Sciences. She specializes in voice pedagogy, performance, and interdisciplinary collaborations, including work with Duke Divinity School on music’s role in worship. Her teaching spans undergraduate and advanced vocal studies, while her performances blend classical repertoire with contemporary interdisciplinary projects. Education: D.M.A., University of North Carolina, Greensboro (2004) M.Mus., University of North Carolina, Greensboro (1980) B.A., Duke University (1978) Research & Performance Focus: Linnartz explores vocal technique, music history, and theological dimensions of music. She emphasizes diction, interpretation of German, French, and English art songs, and the intersection of music with corporate worship. Recent projects include Sunlight I Cannot See (a collaborative journey through desolation and hope) and performances of Britten’s Holy Sonnets of John Donne with Divinity faculty. Service & Leadership: She has served as Treasurer for the Mid-Atlantic Region of the National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS) and adjudicated competitions at regional and national levels for over two decades. Her workshops focus on vocal technique and theological music interpretation. Labs/Teams: Collaborations include Duke Divinity School, NC Central University, and community choirs in Raleigh/Durham. She frequently partners with pianists and ensembles for recitals and large-scale works.
Dr. Alexis Bennett is a Lecturer in Music at Goldsmiths, University of London and a visiting supervisor at the University of Cambridge. She holds a PhD from Goldsmiths, following studies at the University of Edinburgh, Royal College of Music, and Guildhall School. Her research focuses on audiovisual media, folk music, early music, and British film music of the 1930s. She was the 2016–17 Edison Fellow at the British Library Sound Archive and has published extensively on film music history and cultural studies. Her work spans academic writing, composition, and performance, including collaborations with poets and filmmakers. Notable publications include Cultural Crossroads: British Film Music in the 1930s (2019 thesis) and articles in Popular Music , Journal of Film Music , and Music, Sound, and the Moving Image . She serves as Reviews Editor for Music, Sound, and the Moving Image and on the editorial board of Facta Universitatis: Visual Arts and Music . As a composer, Bennett has created scores for films and operas, such as The Electrictionary (2015). She performs with early music ensembles and is active in the folk scene. Teaching roles include courses on music in film, composition, and media studies at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Her research explores intersections between music, film, and cultural history, with a focus on British cinematic practices and their historical contexts.
Chiwei Hui is an Associate Professor and Director of Choral Activities at the University of Wisconsin-Stout, affiliated with the College of Arts & Human Sciences and the School of Art & Design’s Visual & Performing Arts Department. He is a composer, conductor, and performer whose work bridges contemporary and early music traditions. D.M.A. in Music Composition/Choral Conducting, University of Wisconsin-Madison M.M. in Music Composition and Choral Conducting, University of Oregon B.A. in Music Composition and Computer Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison Dr. Hui's research and artistic interests focus on contemporary choral music , early music , historically informed performance practices , and arts entrepreneurship . His work emphasizes interdisciplinary creativity, audience engagement, and innovative presentation of music. He blends humor and serious artistry, described as “seriously fun” with “accomplished contrapuntal texture.” His compositions span orchestral, chamber, choral, and operatic forms, often exploring cultural and technological themes. His recent compositions reflect a strong trend in contemporary choral music with interdisciplinary and global influences. Works like Hands , Stars , and Wired For Love demonstrate engagement with modern social themes, technology, and cross-cultural narratives. The repertoire includes sacred texts, folk adaptations, and original satirical operas, indicating a broad creative scope. His music has been performed internationally and featured in festivals such as the World Saxophone Congress and Society of Composers conferences. Dr. Hui has received notable recognition including: Robert Helps Prize (2008) for Of Water & Love Commission featured at the World Saxophone Congress As a conductor and mentor, he directs the UW-Stout Choirs, Schola Cantorum of Eau Claire, and Chippewa Valley Festival Choir. He has premiered works by emerging composers and fostered student-led projects, such as the moon landing-themed concert script developed by a student team. He has also secured support from the Baldrige Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration Committee, highlighting his success in obtaining academic and artistic grants. Dr. Hui leads several ensembles including the Schola Cantorum of Eau Claire , the first early music chamber choir in northern Wisconsin, UW-Stout Choirs , Chippewa Valley Festival Choir , and collaborates with the Madison Early Music Festival and Eliza’s Toyes . These groups emphasize historically informed performance and community engagement, bridging academic and public audiences.
Aleksandra Dąbrowska is a pianist, vocalist, composer, and author of music and lyrics employed as an assistant at the Faculty of Vocal Performance and Acting at the Stanisław Moniuszko Academy of Music in Gdańsk. She graduated from the Stanisław Moniuszko Academy of Music in Gdańsk, where she studied piano under Professor Andrzej Artykiewicz and Professor Maciej Gański. In 2011/2012, she honed her skills at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London in the class of Professor Joan Havill. As a versatile musician, her artistic interests span piano performance, vocal accompaniment, and composition. She has performed extensively for international audiences in France, Belgium, Germany, Great Britain, and Australia at prestigious venues including the Baltic Philharmonic, National Philharmonic, and London's Barbican Hall. Her achievements include numerous national and international competition wins, with particular recognition for her piano artistry and collaborative work with vocalists. Grand Prix of the Val Tidone Competition in Italy Two-time winner of the International Music Competition Laureate of the J. Zarębski Academy of Music in Łomianki Only Polish laureate of the Fryderyk Chopin Institute Award in Brussels Best Student Award at the Academy of Music in Gdańsk Distinction in the Student Nobel 2014 competition Dąbrowska has received multiple scholarships from the Minister of Culture and National Heritage, the Mayor of Gdańsk, the Marshal of the Pomeranian Voivodeship, and the Minister of Science and Higher Education. Since 2013, she has actively collaborated with Polish Radio Channel 3 as a pianist, composer, and vocalist in performances and music programs. In January 2019, she was accepted as a pianist-accompanist into the prestigious Opera Academy program at the Grand Theatre in Warsaw. She has collaborated with renowned musicians including Lee Kum Sing, Tigran Alikhanov, Jean-Claude Vanden Eynden, and Paul Lewis.
Huw Rhys James is a Lecturer at the Music and Arts Private University of the City of Vienna (MUK), where he has taught opera accompaniment, figured bass, and score reading since 2002. He studied German at the University of Bristol and composition, piano, and accompaniment at the Vienna University of Music (1984–1992), with notable mentors including Prof. A. Kubizek and Prof. H. Goertz. Education: German, University of Bristol Composition, Piano, Accompaniment, Vienna University of Music (1984–1992) His research interests focus on contemporary and Baroque opera, musicology, and vocal accompaniment. He is renowned for reviving forgotten works, such as Leonardo Vinci’s L’Artaserse and Francesco Conti’s Don Chisciotte in Sierra Morena , using original scores and instruments. He has held significant artistic roles, including répétiteur at the Vienna State Opera’s Opera Studio (1990) and choir director for the Vienna State Opera Chorus Concert Association since 2013. His collaborations span conductors like Riccardo Muti and Franz Welser-Möst, with notable productions at the Salzburg Festival and Bayreuth Festival. Scientific awards include grants from the US National Endowment for the Arts and ORF Edition. He also founded the Vienna-based ensembles Musikwerkstatt Wien and Musica Poetica Wien, which premiered 26 operas, including five world premieres. Key Contributions: Urtext editions of Baroque operas Author/editor of Felix Kaufmann’s Songs of the Mises-Kreis (2019) Translations of libretti into German
Cordula Hacke is a Professor of Chamber Music and Collaborative Piano at the University of Agder's Department of Classical Music and Music Pedagogy. She holds international acclaim as a pianist, chamber music partner, and musical director for theater productions. Her career spans collaborations with leading orchestras, including the New York Philharmonic and Boston Symphony Orchestra, and extensive work in contemporary and 19th/20th century repertoires. Her research includes editorial work on composers like Debussy and Laparra, and she has pioneered projects like the Trio Art Nouveau (2016) focusing on Fin de Siècle music. She regularly teaches at institutions such as the Salzburg Summer Academy and served as jury chair for the International Kuhlau Competition (2006-2023). Notable productions include directing Spatz und Engel (touring Europe 2021/2023) and founding the Wiesbaden Art Nouveau Music Competition (2022). Her discography features transcriptions of Crumb’s Vox Balaenae and collaborations with artists like Jeanne Baxtresser. Recent activities include leading workshops at Villa Musica (2023) and co-presenting Norway’s classical music programs at Western University, Canada (2023).
Woojung Jang is a Lecturer at the Karlsruhe University of Music and the Hochschule für Musik Saar, specializing in Music Theatre and vocal correpetition. She holds a Master's degree in piano accompaniment from Sungshin Women's University and completed her soloist exam with distinction at Karlsruhe University of Music under Prof. Mitsuko Shirai and Prof. Hartmut Höll. Affiliations: Karlsruhe University of Music (Primary Institution) Hochschule für Musik Saar (Teaching Position) Her research and professional activities focus on opera coaching, music theatre production, and vocal training. She has collaborated with prominent artists such as Prof. Júlia Várady and Prof. Dorothea Röschmann in opera projects at the Institute for Music Theatre. Notable recognition includes her distinction for the soloist exam, reflecting her expertise in Lied and vocal accompaniment. She currently teaches singing and correpetition at the Hochschule für Musik Saar, blending pedagogical practice with artistic performance.
Andrew Stewart is a pianist and educator affiliated with Goucher College and the Peabody Preparatory (Johns Hopkins University). He holds a B.M. from UCSB (2000) and an M.M. from the Peabody Institute (2002). His roles include faculty member, musical director for over 50 theatrical productions, and accompanist for Maryland Opera and multiple choirs. He specializes in vocal coaching, choral accompaniment, and educational outreach through programs like 'Arias and Adventures.' Education: B.M. Piano Performance (UCSB 2000), M.M. Peabody Institute (2002) His artistic focus spans classical repertoire (e.g., Messiaen's Quartet for the End of Time ), opera education, and collaborations with artists like Garth Baxter. He has produced recordings for Navona and Centaur Records, and his compositional work includes liturgical music and operas. Stewart is also a liturgical musician at Our Lady of Grace Parish and Har Sinai–Oheb Shalom Congregation. Notable achievements include developing educational opera programs for 20,000+ students annually and receiving praise from industry leaders for his 'musical genius' and dedication to mentorship.
Ana María Botella Nicolás is an Associate Professor at the Department of Didactics of Physical Education, Artistic and Music Education within the Faculty of Teacher Training at Universitat de València. Holding a PhD in Pedagogy with her dissertation on Alcoy's "Música de Moros y Cristianos" and its didactic applications, she combines her academic role with extensive research in music education. Her educational background includes a degree in Musicology and a Master's in Piano Interpretation, complemented by teaching credentials in Music Education. PhD in Pedagogy, Universitat de València Degree in Musicology, Universidad de Oviedo Diploma in Music Education, Universidad de Oviedo International Master's in Piano Performance Her research focuses on three primary areas: music listening didactics , educational innovation and ICT integration in music education . Through the research group iMUSED, she explores topics like the educational value of contemporary music, emotional intelligence development through music, and the role of soundscapes in learning environments. Her work often combines traditional pedagogical methods with digital tools, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches. Recent publications highlight her work on soundscape analysis in teacher training (2025), Valencia's traditional music in primary education (2025), and the impact of virtual reality on sensory learning (2024). She contributes to policy discussions through studies on Spain's higher artistic music education framework (2024) and orchestra training programs (2024). Her research methodology frequently employs mixed-method approaches, including quasi-experimental designs and Delphi technique validations. As an educator, she supervises research projects and theses while implementing competency-based learning models in professional music education. Her collaborations span institutions like Universidad de Oviedo and Universidad de Valencia, with co-researchers such as Pablo Ramos Ramos and Rafael Fernández-Maximiano. Current projects focus on the intersection of environmental education and musical creativity, as evidenced by the "Paiso" interdisciplinary educational initiative (2022-2024).
Rūta Blaškytė serves as a Lecturer at the Music Academy within Vytautas Magnus University , specializing in the Piano Department . Her research and artistic work center on music performance, with notable contributions to Lithuanian cultural events and collaborations with esteemed composers like Juozas Širvinskas.
