Prof Linda Merrick has been announced as the new Chair of the Conservatoires UK organisation.

The Principal of Manchester's Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM) is a leading figure in conservatoire education, both in the UK and internationally and will replace Hilary Boulding, who steps down later this month.

Specialist education

In addition to maintaining a career as a professional clarinetist, Prof Merrick is a member of numerous specialist bodies within the Arts and Higher Education sectors, and is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy and the Royal Society of Arts

With a membership comprising 11 conservatoires delivering specialist education in music, drama and/or dance, Conservatoires UK is an influential voice speaking to government, policy makers and opinion formers, nationally and internationally.

It is a privilege to accept the position. For over a century the UK's conservatoires have established a model of education which is world renownedProf Linda Merrick

Privilege

She told 4BR: "It is a privilege to accept the position. For over a century the UK's conservatoires have established a model of education which is world renowned for providing talented, ambitious young actors, musicians, dancers and arts practitioners the training, freedom and encouragement to fulfil their creative and professional potential.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank Hilary for her invaluable contribution as Chair of Conservatoires UK for the past three years and wish her well as she moves into her new role as President of Trinity College Oxford from August 2017."

Pic: Victoria Hayden