The Keyboard Faculty of the Royal Irish Academy of Music is made up of many of Ireland’s most renowned musicians and pedagogues. Since its inception over 160 years ago, its members have worked to nurture, encourage and guide the very best of Irish and international talent to the highest of artistic standards. As such Keyboard students at the Academy have over the years garnered numerous international prizes and awards whilst developing successful careers as soloists, chamber musicians and teachers.
Courses of study are offered in piano, harpsichord and organ as well as in period keyboard instruments and classical accordion. In all, students can pursue four possible degrees: Doctorate (D. Mus.), Masters (M. Mus.), Bachelor of Arts (B. A.) and Bachelor of Music Education (B. Mus. Ed.). A full-time diploma course is also offered (Dip. Mus.) as well as a special Access Course for Pre-Third-Levels. Furthermore, students can prepare for examinations such as Licentiate and Associate Diplomas (L.R.I.A.M. and A.R.I.A.M.) at both teacher and performer level. And along with courses for part-time students, there is a thriving first and second-level program.
The faculty is keen to support and encourage public performance opportunities for all its students and so numerous events are planned each academic year with this in mind (please see events page). Typically there are five to six sets of master classes given annually by some of the world’s most prestigious musicians offering a possible platform for students to perform and learn in a public setting. The faculty also organizes about twelve concerts per year for students at all levels and categories. In addition to this, Chamber music, Accompaniment and Repetiteur work are all strongly encouraged and explored.
Peter Maurice Tuite
Dean of the Senior School
Head of Faculty