Williams named next Royal College of Music Director

JAMES WILLIAMS will become Director of the Royal College of Music (RCM) in September 2024.

As the conservatoire's eleventh director, Williams will succeed COLIN LAWSON CBE, who will retire from the role at the end of August 2024.

Williams has been Managing Director of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO) since 2016. During his tenure, he secured a new Associate Orchestra partnership between the RPO and Royal Albert Hall, established a new home for the Orchestra at Wembley Park, and oversaw an international touring schedule. 

Williams also stands on the board of Metroland Cultures, music charity Mayfield Valley Arts Trust and the Association of British Orchestras, and is a member of the RCM Council. 

“It is a great honour to lead the Royal College of Music into the next chapter of its development, building on the incredible successes to date and honouring the College’s founding principles and commitment to its students for widening access,” Williams commented. 

Lawson added: “I wish James every success and look forward to working with him in the coming months to ensure a seamless transition”.

“It remains an enormous privilege to serve the RCM as Director, a role I will have fulfilled for almost twenty years.”