Wistreich, R. and Perkins, R. (2025) Cultivating research cultures. In: Inside the Contemporary Conservatoire: Critical Perspectives from the Royal College of Music, London. Routledge. ISBN 9781032251066 (hardback) 9781032251059 (paperback) 9781003281573 (e-book)
Abstract
Research is now firmly embedded in the ecosystems of most advanced conservatoires. It is nevertheless fair to say that the full potential of the symbiosis of research with learning and teaching has yet to be realised. One of the major challenges over the last 50 years has been to transform music conservatoires from being training schools for musicians into fully fledged institutions of higher education. In this chapter, we set out to show how the idea and practice of research (broadly understood as critical enquiry) can provide the catalyst to help effect and sustain this transition. We begin by setting out some of the tensions for an institution that must combine and balance the development of professional musicians’ artisanal skills with its aspiration to educate critical and creative thinkers. Through three examples, drawn from recent activities at the Royal College of Music (RCM), London, we aim to demonstrate the unique advantages of doing research specifically within a conservatoire. We conclude by reflecting on the potential that research has for mobilising culture change, both within the conservatoire and music research more generally.
Actions (login required)
 |
View Item |