The Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama has announced that HRH The Prince of Wales will become its President from July 2019, joining a small group of organisations who share this honour.
The Prince of Wales became the College’s Patron in 1999, prior to its royal status being granted in 2002. As an active Patron and supporter of the College, the Prince of Wales has hosted several Galas in the College’s name at Buckingham Palace. He also celebrated the final event of his own 70th birthday celebrations at the College in December 2018.
The College commemorated these Birthday celebrations by announcing the renewal of the annual Prince of Wales Scholarships, which will be awarded from 2019 onwards from the College’s developing endowment, and the start of a partnership working with The Prince’s Trust.
The Prince of Wales is Patron of World Harp Congress 2020, which will be held at the College. World Harp Congress has members from over 50 countries and is held every three years. This will be the first time the World Harp Congress has been to Europe in twelve years.
The announcement was made at the College’s annual President’s Dinner, presided over by Lord Rowe-Beddoe, the College’s longest standing President, who will be stepping down after 15 years, but continuing his relationship with the College in the newly created role of Chairman Laureate.
Principal, Professor Helena Gaunt, paid tribute to Lord Rowe-Beddoe, saying:
‘When I first arrived here I was struck by the tangible impact that David has had, and continues to have, on this College.
He has been a visionary supporter of its advancement over many years. His support for our students is immeasurable. We very much look forward to working with him in his new role as the inaugural Chairman Laureate.’
Chair of RWCMD’s Board of Directors, John Derrick, said:
‘We are so honoured and excited that His Royal Highness is developing his support of the College in this way and the news marks our 70th birthday in a very special way.
‘As our treasured Patron for the last 20 years, His Royal Highness has always taken an active and passionate interest in the progress of the College and its students and we are absolutely delighted that the relationship is deepening and will continue to grow.’
