Return to Study 2020/2021 - a statement from RIAM Director
RIAM, like education institutions all over Ireland, has been reflecting on the best way to continue to deliver exceptional music education for our Junior and Tertiary students while living with the health and safety challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. We plan for our students to make real progress this year and are excited about finding new ways to ensure this. It is also important to state that our staff welfare is key, and our plans will adjust according to public health guidelines.
To prepare for all outcomes, in April RIAM established a Digital working group with 12 sub-groups; reviewed international research; sought faculty input through faculty meetings and smaller group meetings; ran surveys; and held meetings with students. This process of reflection was also supplemented by discussions and webinars on best practice with our international colleagues in the Association of European Conservatoires and the New World Symphony (USA). We have considered each learning scenario individually and have done our best to match the best international standards of the delivery of music education in both a live and digital environment
At the heart of our planning for 2020/2021, we want to arrive at a student-centred and safe solution for all stakeholders that will also continue to deliver an exceptional music education. RIAM has reopened its campus within the national public health guidelines and we will give our students the best possible on-campus and blended learning experience so that they can continue with their musical progression and engage with RIAM staff.
Music performance has an advantage in that the one-to-one lesson is compatible with most social distancing scenarios short of full lockdown. On that basis, one-to-one lessons and small group classes will be held in-person, with musicianship theory and academic classes held online. Our students and staff have received health and safety guidelines and the building has been prepared to meet health and safety requirements. It is wonderful to hear music in the building again following months of silence, and I look forward to welcoming our students back for a busy and productive year ahead.
Deborah Kelleher
Director, RIAM