Dr. Fiona McAndrew has been named the Head of Vocal Studies at the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama (RWCMD).

Dr. McAndrew is a performer, academic, counsellor, voice teacher, and coach. She takes over for Mary King, who is stepping down from the role, but will continue to work with the institution on specific projects.

“I am thrilled to join such a talented and friendly community of practice at RWCMD,” Dr. McAndrew, who is a Guildhall School of Music and Drama graduate, said per an official press statement issued by the company. “I look forward to meeting the challenge of combining the highest quality of artistic educational experience with a genuine interest in the welfare of students and ambition for their future flourishing. After many years working internationally in the performing arts and music, from performing in opera houses and re-imagined spaces, to teaching in conservatoires and more recently in the psychotherapeutic care of creatives, I relish the chance to nurture young creative minds.  As a fellow Celt, this longing hiraeth has brought these experiences together in Wales, the Land of Song. I am honored to promote the ancient and modern art of voice around the world, creating connections with many of the places I have lived with their own sense of longing and storytelling.”

As a performer, Dr. McAndrew has appeared with such organizations as Semperoper Dresden, Teatro Comunale Bologna, Rossini Opera Festival Pesaro, New Zealand Opera, Covent Garden Festival, Dresden Festival, and Perth Festival. She holds a doctorate in Music Psychology, a Master of Counselling with Distinction, and a First Class Honours degree in Psychology. She previously held academic and teaching roles with the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts in Perth.

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