Woodwind Festival

Join us for a packed day as the RCM celebrates woodwind music-making!

Globally leading performers will host masterclasses throughout the day, including Peter Sparks (clarinet), Amy Dickson (saxophone), Philippe Tondre (oboe), Lola Descours (bassoon) and André Cebrián (flute). There’ll also be plenty of opportunities to hear our students perform a breadth of virtuosic music for wind instruments as curated by Head of Woodwind Marie Lloyd.

The festival is perfect for families and those new to their instrument, with come-and-play events and a family-friendly concert, and lively performances throughout the day.

2026 Lineup 
 
11am–12.30pm / 2–3.15pm 
Come and play with RCM Sparks  
We are delighted to offer a range of events tailored to young musicians as part of the festival – learn more and apply via this application form. 
 
11am–12.30pm
Saxophone Masterclass with Amy Dickson 
Internationally recognised for her remarkable, distinctive tone and exceptional musicality, Amy Dickson has performed and recorded as a soloist with orchestras worldwide, and has recorded eight solo albums with Sony Music. 
 
11am–12.30pm 
Clarinet Masterclass with Peter Sparks 
Co-Principal Clarinet at English National Opera, Peter Sparks has an exceptionally diverse career as a performer which he combines with a commitment to clarinet teaching and chamber music coaching at the RCM.
 
11am, 12pm, 2.15pm, 3.15pm 
Chamber Music Performances 
Hear RCM musicians perform in a variety of charming concerts throughout the day. 
 
1–2pm 
Lunchtime Concert with the Colares Ensemble
Presented by Anya Cookson and Ellen Roff, with animatuer Ruth Rosales, enjoy a lively lunchtime concert with a rousing programme featuring Jim Parker’s jazzy and playful Mississippi Five. 
 
2.30-4pm
Oboe Masterclass with Philippe Tondre
Principal Oboe for the Philadelphia Orchestra, Philippe Tondre has established himself as a leading oboist, his music-making packed with emotional sensitivity and stunning virtuosity. 
 
2.30-4pm
Flute Masterclass with André Cebrián
André Cebrián regularly coaches youth orchestras, and gives numerous masterclasses and courses around Europe, and is Principal Flute of the Scottish Chamber Orchestra. 
 
2.30-4pm
Bassoon Masterclass with Lola Descours 
Explore the versatile and distinctive tone of the bassoon with Lola Descours, Principal Bassoon of the Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra and founder of chamber groups Cocteau Trio and Trio ABC. 
 
4-4.50pm 
Jazz Trio: Pop-up performance in The Carolean 
Be treated to a delightful performance while enjoying food and drink in our café. 
 
5-6pm 
Closing Concert 
Our five visiting artists are joined by RCM piano student Thomas Luke for a vibrant concert bringing a wonderful day of music-making to a close.

Programme:
Richard Rodney Bennett Four Country Dances for saxophone and piano (Amy Dickson)
Matthew Hindson Heroes for saxophone and piano (Amy Dickson)
Rimsky-Korsakov The Young Prince and the Young Princess from Scheherazade for flute and piano (André Cebrián)
Saint-Saëns Tarantella for flute, clarinet and piano (André Cebrián and Peter Sparks)
Poulenc Trio for oboe, bassoon and piano (Philippe Tondre and Lola Descours)
Caplet Quintet for wind quintet and piano, 2nd mvt (All artists)

Trade Fair 
Don’t miss our all-day trade fair, where experts will be on hand to answer your burning questions. This year we welcome ABRSM, CASS (Clarinet and Saxophone Society of Great Britain), D’Addario, Howarth of London, Selmer, The Royal Corps of Army Music... and more!