Deborah Kelleher
The Royal Irish Academy of Music plays a central role in the development, delivery and promotion of Ireland’s cultural and educational agenda, contributing to a dynamic, innovative society for which the performing arts is a resource of inspiration and value.
With a proud history of more than 160 years as a beacon for excellence and innovation in musical performance and composition, our on-going inspiration is found in our students, the commitment and expertise of our staff and in our meaningful partnerships with other stakeholders across the island of Ireland and further afield.
We are deeply committed, through music education, performance and appreciation, to stimulating and motivating students and examination candidates of all ages, helping them to excel and contribute to society – whether their eventual careers lie in music or elsewhere.
The Royal Irish Academy of Music Teaching Staff includes international and national prizewinners, members of the National Symphony Orchestra of Ireland and the RTÉ Concert Orchestra and many individuals whose names have become synonymous with music education in Ireland. In recent years our students have garnered prizes from some of the world’s most prestigious international competitions including the Clara Haskil International Piano Competition, The Cardiff Singer of the World Competition, the Hamamatsu International Piano Competition, the Cologne International Piano Competition, the AXA Dublin International Piano Competition and the Maria Callas Grand Prix. On the international stage, former students are currently members of such leading orchestras as the London Symphony Orchestra, the Philharmonia Orchestra, Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra, as well as opera houses from the Royal Opera House at Covent Garden to Munich State Opera.
Our Local Centre Examination System affords us the opportunity to reach beyond our Westland Row premises. In examining over 40,000 students every year, the RIAM sets the standard for excellence across the country. We have a responsibility as the only musical institution with this truly all island reach, to support the development of music and create a community of learning and sharing that grows and develops over time.
We believe that music impacts positively on everyone’s lives, and that the RIAM has a role to play in helping us to celebrate the love of music across all ages and stages. We hope that on some level, whether it is as a student, teacher, examination candidate, parent, audience member or alumnus, we can contribute to your own musical journey.
Deborah Kelleher