Working in partnership with Welsh National Opera
The Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama works in close partnership with Welsh National Opera (WNO) to support professional training, industry engagement and progression into the operatic and orchestral profession.
WNO & RWCMD: What the partnership involves
Partnership activities take place throughout the year and are fully integrated into students’ training, including:
- Orchestral residencies and placements – students rehearse and perform side by side with the WNO Orchestra
- Professional coaching and teaching – delivered by WNO conductors, répétiteurs and resident music staff
- Performance opportunities – including the WNO Opera Gala, Conductors’ Showcase and WNO Youth Opera Young Company productions
- Access to professional working practice– observing and shadowing rehearsals, dress rehearsals and production processes
‘WNO and RWCMD have one of the most symbiotic relationships of any conservatoire and professional arts organisation. We rely heavily on its graduates to work with our orchestra in both freelance and permanent capacities.’Matt DownesHead of Orchestra, WNO
How students benefit
Through the partnership with Welsh National Opera, the College's David Seligman Opera School students gain:
- real-world experience inside a leading international opera company
- insight into professional standards, rehearsal processes and career pathways
- opportunities to build confidence, resilience and professional networks
Side-by-side with WNO Orchestra
RWCMD’s side-by-side scheme allows students to rehearse and perform alongside members of the WNO Orchestra, sitting within professional sections and working to the same musical and technical standards.
RWCMD offers placements with both the orchestra of WNO and with the BBC National Orchestra of Wales, giving students a breadth of professional experience before they graduate.
These placements support students musically, professionally and personally, helping to build confidence, discipline and an understanding of the working environment they will encounter after training.
‘Playing alongside professional musicians like this was probably one of the most important parts of my training. It gives you direct insight into the level of playing required in the working world.’Charlotte ThomasGraduate flautist
WNO Opera Gala
The annual WNO Opera Gala is a flagship collaboration within the partnership. It brings together current and former David Seligman Opera School students, the WNO Orchestra and a leading conductor for a public performance at the College.
The gala provides singers with the experience of preparing and performing with a full professional orchestra and conductor, supported by in-depth coaching and rehearsal processes.
‘That preparation and performing with an orchestra and conductor of that standard makes a young singer feel safe and confident. It was a real highlight of my training.’Grace CurtisOpera graduate
Conductors showcase with WNO Orchestra
The WNO Conductors Showcase gives MA Orchestral Conducting students the opportunity to lead the full WNO Orchestra, building trust, expertise and rapport with professional players, and putting their developing craft into practice at the highest level.
‘I’ve had such amazing opportunities during my two years here. There’s a real trust with the WNO orchestra that’s developed during my training as I’ve become more experienced. The College has been transformational in building that confidence and trust in myself. 'Emily SinghMA Orchestral Conducting graduate
Professional outcomes
The partnership plays a vital role in supporting progression into professional work, with many RWCMD graduates going on to work with WNO in both freelance and permanent orchestral roles, as well as across the wider UK and international opera sector.
This close relationship strengthens the talent pipeline and contributes to the long-term health of orchestral and operatic music in Wales and beyond.
About Welsh National Opera
Welsh National Opera is one of the UK’s leading opera companies, internationally recognised for the quality of its orchestra, productions and commitment to artistic excellence. Its long-standing relationship with RWCMD supports the development of the next generation of opera and orchestral professionals.
