Learning with Legends | Royal Academy of Music

We are proud to welcome some of the world’s finest artists to work with our students on masterclasses and performance projects.

'You do have an experience at the Academy that other musicians would just kill for. The access to people and masterclasses is amazing.'

Suzy Klein, Radio 3

Regular guest conductors of the Academy's performing ensembles include Semyon Bychkov, Sir Mark Elder, Barbara Hannigan, Edward Gardner, Trevor Pinnock and Alice Farnham. Across all departments at the Academy, masterclasses and workshops are delivered by artists at the top of their profession, providing our students with inspirational learning opportunities. Over the last year we have enjoyed visits from Imelda Staunton, Sheku Kanneh-Mason, Ingrid Jensen, the BBC Singers and Susan Bullock, among many others.

'Having the opportunity to work with world-renowned conductors is a privilege. Long days of rehearsal are always worth it and it’s hard not to leave a session with Ed Gardner or Semyon Bychkov feeling inspired.’
Jess- ASO

Below you can watch our most recent Academy Symphony Orchestra concert with Semyon Bychkov, and a vocal masterclass led by world-renowned mezzo-soprano Joyce DiDonato with our Royal Academy Opera students.

The Academy's flag on the front of the building

Semyon Bychkov conducts the Academy Symphony Orchestra

'I never imagined I would meet my heroes, let alone work with them.'
Desmonda Cathabel, MA

Joyce DiDonato Masterclass - Royal Academy Opera