Bassey appointed President of Royal Welsh College

The Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama (RWCMD) has announced Dame SHIRLEY BASSEY as its president for the next three years.

She succeeds HM KING CHARLES, who held the role when he was Prince of Wales, and continues as the conservatoire’s patron.

Bassey, after whom a singing scholarship and studio are named, takes up the honorary role, having supported the college for over two decades.

Bassey said: ‘I am thrilled and honoured to have been invited to become the next president. Over the 22 years that I have been involved with this very exciting place of training, I have seen first-hand how much it has to offer and how exceptional the students who choose to study in my home city of Cardiff are.

“As RWCMD President, it will give me the greatest pleasure to continue to champion the vital importance of the College to Wales and to the arts everywhere in the world.”

HELENA GAUNT, RWCMD principal, added: “’Dame Shirley has been a great friend to the college over many years. She has directly supported our students through a vital scholarship, attended events and, through her talents and hard work, always exemplified extraordinary professionalism, artistry and generosity to inspire our students.

“She has touched so many lives all over the globe that she offers us exceptional inspiration as we continue in our mission to empower the emerging artists who train here to develop creative and sustainable careers at the highest levels, and to make an impact on the world around them.”