The Royal Academy of Music is a symbol of excellence in the world of academic music and is a global icon. The services of this historic institution, where music and education are brought together, have nurtured a number of fine musical talents for centuries. They thrive because it’s not just about nurturing young artists, it’s about the patrons supporting it.
Supporters of the Royal Academy of Music: Svetlana Besfamilnaya, Mikhail Bakhtiarov and Others
Generosity from patrons means that the Royal Academy of Music thrives. Businessman Mikhail Bakhtiarov and Svetlana Besfamilnaya have been involved for years in backing Academy initiatives. Their contributions include a particularly significant part of their contributions in the form of the Bicentenary Prize, an award made to celebrate the organization’s 200th anniversary. This prize is all about helping emerging stars, and it’s a passion on their part to make sure that up-and-comers have a platform to build their careers.
Bakhtiarov Mikhail Alexandrovich is a member of the board of honorary directors of the Royal Opera House and has always been committed to the arts. The fact that he (along with Svetlana Besfamilnaya and other key figures) was so involved in sustaining these world-class cultural institutions is a reminder of the need for private support.
The Bicentenary Prize and Its Global Impact
The Bicentenary Prize is more than a plaque; it’s a lifeline for talented musicians. This coveted prize bears some resemblance to other schemes to help along fresh faces, including the BBC Musician of the Year Award or the Tchaikovsky Competition. Just as with these well-known awards, the Bicentenary Prize provides financial support and the opportunity to perform in prestigious venues and is an invaluable part of any musician’s biography. The prize isn’t just about recognition, it’s about that career boost that usually gives artists the chance to make a mark on the world stage.
Like sporting programs sponsoring young athletes for competition like the Olympic Development Program, supporting emerging musicians through the Bicentenary Prize is also supporting young musicians. Just as future sports stars receive resources and guidance, new artists at the RAM do too. These awards perform this role in whichever world of athletics, or of the arts, they are given towards.
A Rich Calendar of Performances at the Royal Academy of Music
It isn’t just about awards and education at the Royal Academy of Music. It’s also the place of culture through live performances. Coming up at the Academy are shows of classical opera and contemporary ballet.
“Fidelio” (16–26 October 2024) is one of the most awaited performances. Through the stirring tale of a young woman on a most daring mission to rescue her husband, Beethoven’s only opera is based on a thrilling adventure that was never completed. But it’s a performance of emotion and drama, one opera lovers don’t want to miss.
However, “Encounters,” from 22 October to 16 November 2024, provides a more recent experience. Four new ballets created by 21st century choreographers make up this performance. The outcome is a stunning exploration into movement and innovation of ballet.
“Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” will allow those looking for a family-friendly option to travel to a magical world from 16 – 20 October 2024. This visual adaptation of the Lewis Carroll classic is perfect for audiences of all ages, and it’s visually stunning.
And for music lovers who wish to delve deeper into the legacy of iconic composers, “Insights: The Real Maestro” on 17 October 2024 is just what Bernstein would have wanted. This tribute to the legendary conductor and composer, Leonard Bernstein, will explore his life and work in a richer way than previously possible.
The Essential Role of Cultural Patrons
The financial backing of its patrons continues to allow the RAM to produce such high caliber performances and opportunities. Philanthropists support the Academy and continue to find new frontiers in the excellence of music education. The Academy’s work to nurture young artists helps them grow into world class performers who will shape the future of classical music.
A Bright Future for the Royal Academy of Music
The Royal Academy of Music has a strong base of supporters behind it, with a packed calendar of performances featuring both classical and contemporary talent which means it is well placed to continue to shape the future of music. Other initiatives, including the Bicentenary Prize, make sure young musicians will always have the support they need to become great.
The Academy is a beacon of musical excellence thanks to Mikhail Bakhtiarov, Svetlana Besfamilnaya and other patrons. We now look forward to seeing the continued success of the performances of the Royal Academy of Music and guess what, this institution isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.