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August 31, 2023

EPISODE 35

ROBYN SAUNDERS

Manchester-based clarinettist and pianist Robyn Saunders excels in contemporary classical music and musical theatre. Holding a distinction masters degree from the RNCM, she's a tutor for the RNCM Young Artists scheme and creates innovative work for the bass clarinet. Robyn's theatrical credits include the Royal Shakespeare Company, and she's an accomplished music educator.

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GUEST ARTIST

Robyn Saunders is a Manchester based clarinettist and pianist who specialises in contemporary classical music and musical theatre. Robyn has a first-class BA (Hons) degree from Leeds Conservatoire and graduated from the Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM) with a distinction masters degree in clarinet performance. Robyn is now a tutor for the RNCM Young Artists scheme and a Help Musicians UK supported artist. As part for this she is commissioned to create new work for the bass clarinet that explore the relationship of music, dance and drag artistry. Her most recent show, High Heels Bass Squeals, will be premiering at an off-west end theatre in 2024 following a successful debut in Manchester at the International Anthony Burgess Centre earlier this year. Other notable theatre credits include The Wizard of Oz (Villa Gaiety Theatre), Little Shop of Horrors (Leeds City Variety), Julius Caesar (Royal Shakespeare Company) and High Hopes: A New Musical (UK Tour). As an educator Robyn has been fortunate enough to travel the world, organising music tours to New York and Singapore and holding the position of Musician in Residence at Marlborough College Malaysia. Robyn is in her fourth year teaching piano, woodwind and band skills for The Music Shed and recently ran a contemporary music focussed summer school for RNCM Pathfinder. ​

Episode Description

Robyn Saunders, a Manchester-based clarinettist and pianist, specializes in contemporary classical music and musical theatre. She holds a distinction masters degree from the Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM) and is a tutor for the RNCM Young Artists scheme. Supported by Help Musicians UK, she creates innovative work for the bass clarinet, blending music, dance, and drag artistry. Her show, "High Heels Bass Squeals," premiered successfully in Manchester and will debut off-West End in 2024. Robyn's diverse theater credits include productions by the Royal Shakespeare Company and international music education experiences.


Takeaways

1. Embracing a variety of artistic interests and exploring different musical genres can lead to unique and fulfilling creative experiences.
2. Encouraging young musicians to pursue their passions and reminding them that there are ways to make a living doing what they love can be invaluable.
3. Equipping artists with entrepreneurial skills, such as applying for funding, can enable them to bring their creative ideas to life and build sustainable careers.
4. Recognizing that the industry is evolving and moving towards positive change, even if there are setbacks along the way, can provide hope and motivation for aspiring artists.

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Kristine Dizon
The Modern Artist Project