The Bute Quintet

The Bute Wind Quintet is a multi-award winning ensemble, whose mission is to promote contemporary and underperformed chamber music, delivering an uncompromising artistic image to a range of audiences

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

I chose the Orchestral Performance MMus course at the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama because I felt it offered the best opportunities for orchestral placement schemes with BBC NOW and Welsh National Opera. I've also been incredibly fortunate to be part of some fantastic ensembles within the College, such as the Chamber Winds, performing pieces like Simpson’s Geysir, Mozart’s Gran Partita, and Dvorak’s Serenade for Winds. Additionally, I’ve had the privilege of performing as section principal for the Royal Welsh College Symphony Orchestra, honing the skills I aim to use in my professional career.

(Sam Willsmore - Oboe)


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

The placements offered as part of the Orchestral Performance Masters are truly unparalleled, providing invaluable symphonic and operatic experience. They played a significant role in shaping the way I approach performance today.

(Hannah Harding - Bassoon)


Did you have any notable moments during your time on the course?

One memorable moment happened during my first BBC placement. Usually, you play short intervals during a placement, but on this occasion, there was a mix-up with the rota and the second flute player didn’t turn up for a three-hour morning session. I was asked to play the entire session in the second flute and piccolo chair, and I even ended up getting paid for the work. It was a thrilling, challenging, and unexpected experience, and it made me realise even more the demands of holding an orchestral seat.

(Gabriella Alberti - Flute)


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

I've already begun developing a portfolio career in teaching and performing. As a freelance orchestral clarinetist, I’ve worked with Welsh National Opera and the English Symphony Orchestra. I now also consider myself a chamber musician, thanks to my awesome colleagues in the Bute Wind Quintet. I’m excited to continue building my career and strengthening the connections I’ve made within the industry.

(Meg Davies - Clarinet)


What has been your favorite part of studying at RWCMD to date?

Two moments particularly stand out in my mind. First was the experience of sitting in the BBC NOW horn section while playing Mahler 5, amazed by the sheer volume the players were producing, even during rehearsals. The second was sitting behind Angus West, the former Principal Horn of WNO, during the Opera Gala with Carlo Rizzi. Listening to his breathtaking horn playing was a real 'pinch-me' moment, as I realised I was part of the orchestra, performing alongside such amazing musicians.

(Nathan Barker - French Horn)