*
banner

RNCM Founding Principal to be honoured with sculpture

The contribution of Sir John Manduell CBE in helping to create the Royal Northern College of Music is to be marked with the unveiling of a new sculpture at the conservatoire.

John Maundell
  Sir John was the founder principal at the RNCM 1973 to 1996

Sir John Manduell CBE, the Founding Principal who brought together two Manchester music schools to establish the Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM), will be honoured this summer with a new bust by renowned sculptor Hazel Reeves.

Ceremony unveiling

The bronze head and shoulders will celebrate Sir John's 25 years as head of the conservatoire (from 1971), will be revealed at a ceremony on Friday 21st June ahead of a concert featuring the RNCM Chamber Orchestra and Chamber Choir, directed by David Hill MBE.

The commission has been made possible by the generous support of the Ida Carroll Trust and was initiated by two members of Sir John's original team, Bryan Fox and Richard Griffiths. It will include the creation of a unique plinth designed and made by RNCM alumnus Jonathan Stockton — now an internationally collected furniture designer and maker. It will be installed in the main reception area of the College.

Respected

Following the merger of the Royal Manchester College of Music with the Northern School of Music, Sir John brought the newly created Northern College of Music to its purpose-built premises on Oxford Road in 1973. It was granted the Royal Charter in July of that year.

Sir John enjoyed a successful broadcasting career with the BBC, and later became Programme Director of the Cheltenham Music Festival and founding Chair of the European Opera Centre.

He was a respected and commissioned composer. He received a CBE in 1982, was knighted in 1989, and was awarded the Chevalier des Arts et Lettres in 1990 — one of the highest honours the French Government can bestow. He died in 2017.

To see what the RNCM has grown into, it was like a blood infusion — seeing all these young people, all that talent, and the conservatoire itself made Sir John more tangible. It really helped me to understand him and his impactHazel Reeves

Thrilled

Speaking about the forthcoming unveiling, Sir John's widow, Lady Renna Manduell, said: "I am thrilled and delighted that John's unique contribution has been recognised and I am most grateful to all those who have had the thought and clear-sighted vision to create this tribute to his many years of extraordinary energy and steadfastness."

Sculptor Hazel Reeves said visiting the RNCM had allowed her to fully appreciate Sir John's significant legacy.

"To see what the RNCM has grown into, it was like a blood infusion — seeing all these young people, all that talent, and the conservatoire itself made Sir John more tangible. It really helped me to understand him and his impact."

Become a supporter and help make our future secure.

4barsrest continues to be a proudly independent voice. There are no paywalls to overcome to be able to enjoy what we do to keep our journalism at the heart of the brass banding world. Support us with a one-off donation or subscribe from just £2.50 per month.

Support us    


Star Crossed Lovers

Roberts reveals Star Crossed secrets

August 27 • Composer Stephen Roberts provides his preview of the British Open test-piece, 'Star Crossed Lovers'.


Star Crossed Lovers

Romeo, Romeo wherefore art thou preview?

August 27 • If you want to hear 'Star Crossed Lovers' before the big day in Birmingham, a number of the contenders have announced their previews.


Danny Jones

Adams announce Jones addition to artist roster

August 27 • Danny Jones, the solo euphonium player of Aldbourne Band has been signed to the artist roster of Adams Musical Instruments.


Westwood takes baton at Enderby

August 27 • Gareth Westwood is the new Musical Director of Enderby Band.


Haverhill Silver Band - Concert in Saffron Hall

Wednesday 27 August • Saffron Hall, Audley End Road, Saffron Walden, Essex CB11 4UH


Uckfield Concert Brass - Eastbourne Bandstand 1812 Concert

Wednesday 27 August • Eastbourne Bandstand, Lower Grand Parade, Eastbourne. BN21 3AD


Cheltenham Silver Band - Brass (and percussion) and Beer

Friday 29 August • St. Barnabas Church Hall, Orchard Way, Cheltenham, GL51 7JY GL51 7JY


Dobcross Silver Band - Yorkshire Imperial Band

Sunday 31 August • c/o Dobcross Band Club. Platt Lane. Dobcross Saddleworth OL3 5AD


Contest: 171st British Open

Saturday 6 September • Broad Street, Birmingham. B1 2EA


Chinnor Silver

August 26 • Our COMMUNITY BAND would love players to join us at our next rehearsal on Monday 1st at 11am in our own bandroom.. It's just an extra chance for a friendly blow with cake,coffee and good company.. Does not affect allegiance to your main band


Dodworth Colliery MW Brass Band

August 24 • Principal Cornet. Due to planned retirement. Own band room (no shifting gear between rehearsals), S75 3RF, less than 5 mins fromJ37 M1. Yamaha Zeno cornet for your use. Regular 20+ every rehearsal. Monday & Thursdays 1930-2130. MD GEOF BENSON. .


wantage silver band

August 22 • Wantage Community Brass (non-competitive) are looking to recruit a new Musical Director. The group is unique in that the average age is almost certainly around 70! They rehearse on Tue from 4pm and Thu from 7pm (both times flexible depending on person).


Sam Fisher

BA (Hons), PGCE, Dip.ABRSM
Conductor, Adjudicator (AoBBA), Composer/Arranger, Cornet & Flugelhorn Soloist


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd