Maggie Lamelas

Why did you choose to study the MMus course at RWCMD?

I chose to continue my studies on the MMus Intensive course because of the unique opportunities it provided. The RWCMD Orchestral pathway offered experiences unmatched by any other orchestral course in the UK, including placement schemes with both BBC NOW and WNO. Additionally, the course featured lessons with excellent viola teachers and offered extensive orchestral experience, both as a leader and a section player. The fact that I could complete the course in one year, with lower fees, was also a significant financial factor.


How did you tailor your experience to best fit your career aspirations/goals/future plans?

The course itself is really well mapped out on how to nurture us and allow us to pick which skills we want to keep developing. I planned my module choices to make sure that, besides the specialisation in orchestra that the course allowed, I was still able to expand my skills and refine other interests. By choosing our own modules, we have the flexibility to balance academic and practical work according to our needs. I was also able to organise my own concert from beginning to end which taught me how to contact venues, promote events, schedule rehearsals, fix players etc. through the Creative Project Module.


How did the course help you in your career path, post-graduation?

The course thoroughly prepared me for a career as an orchestral musician. Playing alongside WNO and BBC NOW provided me with invaluable skills and experience. Additionally, participating in the College’s diverse projects exposed me to a wide range of repertoire, which was incredibly beneficial. The opportunity to play period instruments and engage in Historically Informed Performance (HIP) projects, such as playing the baroque viola and Viola da Gamba, was both enjoyable and enlightening. The intensive one-year format required me to excel in time management and prioritisation, skills I honed to navigate the demanding year. All of these experiences have been helpful towards building my career.


Who would you recommend this course to?

I would recommend this course to someone who is interested in getting a sneak peek on what playing in a professional orchestra is like, who is committed to refine their skills as an orchestral musician, and who wants to be playing varied repertoire and in varied ensembles every week.