University News Last updated 14 February
Get to know the people who are driving RBC in this feature. This week, we introduce Head of Woodwind Associate Professor Jenni Phillips, who began life at RBC in 1993, as an oboe teacher with the Junior Conservatoire.
Since this time, Jenni has been passing on her knowledge of orchestral playing and ensuring our students have as many experiences as possible, so that they have broad experiences and wide-ranging skills when they graduate and enter the world of work.
What are the core skills or areas of expertise that you bring to RBC?
My career started as a professional orchestral player, holding positions as an oboist in the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra. I am passionate about passing on my knowledge and understanding of what it takes to work in this environment. Performing musicians need to consider themselves as athletes, and thankfully there is a much greater understanding of this these days. My other interests include performance psychology, pastoral care and helping every young person to find true confidence.
What have been your highlights since you started at BCU?
I started as the oboe teacher when Junior RBC opened in 1993, soon joining senior RBC in 1996 and then becoming Head of Woodwind in 2011. Over these years, I have found such pleasure in nurturing individuals and watching the students become the musicians they want to be. It is incredible to see them grow in confidence, and I love nothing more than celebrating their excitement and achievements in finding whatever career brings them most joy.
What have been the most challenging issues that you’ve had to discuss and take a view on so far?
I would say that keeping up to date with the ever-changing music industry and making sure that our students have as many experiences as possible, so that they have broad experiences and wide-ranging skills. Certainly, since Covid-19, many of our students have had fewer performing experiences before coming to RBC, so there is much more work to be done to boost and develop their confidence on and off the platform.
What are your ambitions for the Faculty?
I believe RBC has an incredible reputation for being supportive, friendly and inspiring. In the Woodwind Department we are 100% committed to that mission. Every student is celebrated for their own personality and style of performance, and I believe this to be empowering and life changing. I am ambitious for and proud of every student, and I know they are incredibly supportive of each other. I say to them, "No sharp elbows here, please!"
What do you to outside of the role when you are not working?
I love to spend time with my family, which has recently expanded, and we now have a granddaughter, who brings us so much pleasure. We have one orchestral conductor and one pilot for sons, so it’s great fun to watch them and even be flown by them! I also love good food and wine, and spending time with lovely friends.