The Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama has announced the appointment of Roger Argente as their new Head of Brass Performance.

The Welshman has been Principal Bass Trombonist with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra for over 25 years, working with many of the world's foremost conductors and soloists, as well as performing with many leading orchestras and ensembles.

Homecoming

A former member of the National Youth Brass Band of Wales, he has also worked extensively as a session musician, recording scores for leading film composers from Jerry Goldsmith to Elmer Bernstein. In 2005, he started Superbrass, now regarded by critics as one of the finest and most creative brass ensembles in the world.

"Originally from Neath, Roger's appointment at the National Conservatoire of Wales marks a moment of homecoming for this hugely experienced, versatile professional musician, teacher, publisher and entrepreneur", RWCMD Director of Music
Dr John Cranmer told 4BR.

"Roger's personal and professional attributes encompass every aspect of the music profession and we are delighted to welcome him back to Wales.

His appointment also signals the next phase of development for the College's excellent brass provision, building on a strong heritage and commitment to aspiring musicians from across the globe."

New Price role

It is understood Roger start in his role in February 2018, one that will see him take over from Kevin Price, who becomes the new Head of Music Performance — a new post created to reflect the step change achieved by the RWCMD following the significant development of its music courses, and the opening of its state-of-the-art performance facilities.

It will see the highly respected New Zealander support and develop its widely recognised activities as a centre for performance excellence, and mediate between the industry-facing training of music students and the outward facing, diverse arts programme.

His appointment also signals the next phase of development for the College's excellent brass provision, building on a strong heritage and commitment to aspiring musicians from across the globeRWCMD Director of Music Dr John Cranmer

Crucial role

It is seen as a crucial role in developing the RWCMD's profile and participation within music education in Wales and music industry networks, nationally and internationally.

Speaking about the appointment, Dr John Cranmer added: "As well as supporting the remarkable increase in high-class performance activity at the College, Kevin will be responsible for developing and facilitating cross-disciplinary performance opportunities, as well as managing further enhancements to the student experience and the conservatoire's wider performance profile."