My experience: cellist Eleonora Savvidou-Missouri, Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama

I chose the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama (RWCMD) because I liked the emphasis on chamber music, and because of the teachers. I’m studying with Rosie Biss, and Emma Denton of the Carducci Quartet, and I always find them really stimulating: I like their focus on the interpretative aspects of pieces, and how they tie that in with working on technique. I’ve been able to take that approach and apply it to other things outside the lessons too.

As master’s students we have a lot of flexibility to tailor our days and modules. I have daily rehearsals with my quartet or trio, and some days I have cello lessons, coaching sessions, or departmental classes.

We also have professional project modules, and within that you can do basically anything. I’m organising a chamber music conference, with a keynote speaker, panel discussion and an octet performance. The course and staff have been really encouraging as I’ve worked with them to create it.

The college focuses on each person finding their own individual voice. For me, it’s put into perspective the importance of having a portfolio career. In particular, the Carducci Quartet has gone beyond just teaching us, giving us access to external opportunities and really mentoring us.

RWCMD feels very international, and there’s a lot of emphasis on making everyone feel welcome. Even if students aren’t quite confident with English, the teaching staff make sure to have extra classes and explain everything clearly. Students can also structure their courses around performance, with fewer writing or other elements, which makes it feel more inclusive.

Conservatoires can often seem intimidating and competitive, but at RWCMD it feels as if we have more opportunities and are listened to, rather than just being one among many.

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