The Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama has announced the appointment of Tim Rhys-Evans MBE as its new Director of Music.

The founder of the award winning Only Men Aloud choir and Artistic Director of The Aloud Charity, which runs the renowned Only Boys Aloud and Only Kids Aloud choirs will take up his new role in April.

Renowned

An MA graduate, former vocal studies tutor and Fellow of the College, he is a renowned musician who regularly works internationally as a choral conductor, vocal specialist, arranger, composer, adjudicator and presenter on TV and radio.

He has also conducted the National Youth Choirs of Great Britain, and is the current conductor of the National Youth Choir of Wales. In 2013 he was awarded an MBE for services to music and for charitable services.

Bold vision

"I am absolutely delighted that Tim is taking on this role,"said Helena Gaunt, Principal of Royal Welsh College.

"He brings a combination of bold vision, outstanding artistic achievement and an international outlook. He also has a profound understanding of Wales' musical traditions and a deep commitment to nurturing potential in each and every individual.

This experience will play particularly strongly into the College's new, ambitious strategy to develop our work and impact across Wales and to provide transformative experiences for diverse communities.

Tim will bring fresh perspectives and inspiring energy to complement our existing expertise and we greatly look forward to working with him."

Witnessing the college's transformation in recent years has been a joy and I'm excited to be playing a part in the next phase of the College's developmentTim Rhys-Evans MBE

Excited

In response, Tim said: "I have a long association with the College, and I'm absolutely delighted to be assuming the role of Director of Music.

Witnessing the college's transformation in recent years has been a joy and I'm excited to be playing a part in the next phase of the College's development.

Music and the performing arts are so central to us as a nation and I will be committed to ensuring that excellence is at the core of everything we do, enabling us to shine even more brightly on the world stage."

Image: Copyright — Jake Morley