Welcome to a new weekly series where we highlight the great work that RBC alumni are doing in the field of music education.
Each week our guest will reveal insights such as what led them to do what they are currently doing, the projects they have been involved in since graduating, what inspires them on a daily basis, and what advice they would give to any music student considering working as a music educator in the future, whether full-time or as part of a rewarding portfolio career.
Episode three: Arjun Jethwa
Years studied 2012-2016
Course BMus (Hons)
First study Flute
From the years 2012 – 2016, I studied on the BMus (Hons) course at Royal Birmingham Conservatoire with the flute as my first study. Throughout my degree, and even before life at the Conservatoire, I had been interested in how different people learn and acquire new skills. Much of this interest has been directed through musical pedagogy, although I had previously studied to become a badminton coach.
During my degree, receiving one-on-one instrumental lessons inspired my interest in education as I observed how my teachers and mentors shared their musical knowledge. I was also fortunate to gain opportunities in instrumental tutoring, leading workshops and mentoring, in addition to volunteering for several arts organisations around Birmingham. On graduating, these experiences gave me the confidence to pursue a varied portfolio career, a large percentage of which is dedicated to music education.
My role as an educator often takes me around the country and allows me to work with a huge variety of people in different educational contexts. As a founding member of RBC’s LEAP Ensemble and an RBC Junior Conservatoire Mentor, I have tutored talented young musicians who are aiming for conservatoire entry themselves.
Through my work with Fairbeats Music, various InHarmony programmes and Coventry Music, I have coached young musicians whose socio-economic backgrounds may serve as barriers to pursuing a career in music. I would advise any aspiring musician that the route requires focus, hard work and patience, although the end result is thoroughly fulfilling. I believe that every young person should have the opportunity to have a music education and have a viable career path in music. I feel proud to work with organisations that support this personal ethos.
Learn more about musician, performer and educator Arjun Jethwa.
If you are one of RBC’s alumni and would like to take part in this feature, contact Interim Vice-Principal (Learning and Teaching) Luan Shaw, Head of Pedagogy Dr Adam Whittaker or Head of Learning and Participation Richard Shrewsbury.
