Gourlay resigns as RSAMD restructures

A well-regarded tuba player and conductor, Gourlay has been in charge of the school's music teaching as its deputy principal of music. He was in post for less than two years.

His decision comes soon after the RSAMD announced its wide-ranging proposals for restructuring. Although Gourlay's resignation is not thought to be related, his duties will now be taken on by the current principal, and fellow brass specialist, John Wallace.

A statement by RSAMD confirmed: 'This role is to be merged with the role of principal and will be taken on by the principal. It will be titled principal and director of music.'

During his time at RSAMD, Gourlay worked to allow students to choose brass instruments as principal study, as well as backing new technology initiatives such as 'digituba' sound manipulation equipment. He said on his arrival that he would lead a 'quiet revolution' at the academy.

RSAMD has been looking into cost-saving measures since January, when it was revealed that savings of around £600,000 were necessary for the coming academic year. Last month, it revealed that four of its music teaching departments are to be merged into two: wind and brass are to combine, as well as its opera and vocal studies divisions.

Furthermore, eight staff will move to shorter term-time contracts, while five others have accepted voluntary severance deals. One person from the school of drama will be made redundant.

'We are now in a strong position to face the future and look forward to the Scottish Funding Council review of drama funding,' Wallace commented. 'In September 2009, when we integrate dance, we will be the first conservatoire in the UK to embrace all three performing arts disciplines - dance, drama and music.'

www.rsamd.ac.uk

This story originally appeared in Muso's sister publication, Gig magazine

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