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Jun's story...

Jun Ishimura is currently in the first year of a Masters Programme in Performance. She is supported by the Japanese Government Overseas Study Programme for Artists and the Derek Butler Scholarship from the RCM.

“I’ve only had wonderful experiences during my time here at the RCM. My lessons are always excellent and all the masterclasses and workshops I’ve participated in have given me a huge amount of inspiration. Recently, Murray Perahia, Alfred Brendel and Mitsuko Uchida visited the RCM to give public masterclasses – it’s inspiring to learn from such great pianists.

There are many opportunities to perform at the RCM, and also at major venues including Cadogan and Steinway Hall through the Woodhouse Professional Development Centre. I find it an enriching and invaluable learning experience to perform in different venues – audiences are always supportive and give me useful feedback.

I also receive lessons on early keyboard instruments – it’s a wonderful way of getting to know the instruments composers used for compositions and performances. I have been taking lessons on the fortepiano for a couple of years now and it’s been a great help in understanding the music from that time.

London is one of the capital cities for artists in the world, and I find it very exciting to study in such a cosmopolitan environment. As well as great concerts, there are also lots of other areas to discover such as painting, acting, ballet and modern art. All of these experiences help you to expand your vision, develop your talent and explore more about music.”