Ten promising musicians applied for the 2022 RSMC Anniversary Scholarship, with project proposals ranging amongst the purchase of new instruments to aid further study, travel to various domestic and international masterclasses, courses and competitions, and the establishment of a mentorship programme for young musicians. It is evident that music-making in Perth is alive and well, and is a testament to the candidates’ enthusiasm and hard work, their nurturing teachers, and supportive families and communities.
This year’s RSMC Anniversary Scholarship recipient is bassoonist Bailey Ireland. Bailey is currently in his third year at UWA’s Conservatorium of Music, studying with WASO Principal Bassoonist Jane Kircher-Lindner.
Bailey intends to purchase a new instrument as the next step in his musical development towards a professional career as a bassoonist. Bailey is an enthusiastic musician, participating in many musical opportunities here in Perth, at community and professional levels. He has played with the UWA Symphony Orchestra and WA Youth Orchestra (including projects with WASO and WA Opera), WA Wind Symphony, The Orchestra Collective, Resonant Fields, and attended the Australian Youth Orchestra’s National Music Camp. He has also volunteered and been involved with The UWA Music Students’ Society, Perth Summer Orchestra Camp, WA Charity Orchestra, and the Australian Double Reed Society (WA).
Bailey is a thoughtful and hard-working musician, whose approach is professional and generous. His drive and ambition to pursue a career playing bassoon, and commitment to the role and growth of the bassoon here in Perth make Bailey an outstanding recipient of this Scholarship. We look forward to following his progress and continued music-making across Perth.
Photo – Corey Battersby