We are deeply saddened to report that Glyn Thomas, Head of
RNCM Young Artists, died during the recent break at the age of 52.
As part of the development of our Young Programmes, Glyn
joined the College in August to lead our newly established Young Artists
initiative, and over the past few months was instrumental in providing 11 to
18-year-olds with life-changing opportunities to explore their musical talent
and achieve their potential.
Paying tribute on behalf of colleagues, Andy Stott said: ‘Glyn
was a rare talent who not only brought to RNCM Young Artists his creative
musicianship as songwriter, performer and producer, but also his extensive
knowledge and experience as an educator. He was an outstanding musician,
teacher and manager who played a major part in launching this important new
programme.’
Prior to taking this position, Glyn worked as a music tutor
at BIMM and was formerly one half of the Manchester-based band, Alpinestars.
His first term leading Young Artists – which sees participants work in bands,
creating, recording, and distributing original music – was a huge success,
ending with a special showcase performance in December.
Glyn will be sorely missed by his friends, colleagues and
students at the College. Our thoughts are with his family at this sad time.
We would like to reassure you that colleagues who worked
closely with Glyn have been contacted separately and are receiving support, as
needed, from line managers and members of our Wellbeing Team. A book of
condolences has been set up for participants of our Young Artists programme,
which recommences on Saturday 21 January. This will be made available to staff
in due course.