The Royal Musical Association
Conferences
Annual Research Students Conference
The RMA Research Students' Conference is open to postgraduates studying in the UK or abroad. It offers the opportunity for students to present research in music, musicology and related areas in a friendly and supportive atmosphere.
The conference provides an opportunity for young researchers to meet together, to gain experience of the conference environment (as listeners, participants, and chairs), to hear papers, workshops, and music, and to gain insights into the profession.
Each year, the programme includes skills training sessions, student papers, composition and performance workshops, concerts, and social events.
Recent and Forthcoming Conferences
In 2011, the event was held on 13-15 January at the University of Manchester. See more information.
In 2012, the conference will be hald 5-7 January and will be hosted by the University of Hull (contact: Elaine King).
In 2013, the event will be hosted by the University of Southampton.
Guidelines for Organisers
Conference Committee
The conference committee would normaly comprise of research students and at least one member of academic staff.
Membership of the committee is envisaged as useful experience of conference organisation for research students. One or more members of academic staff would chair the committee and provide advice and guidance.
Timetable
Organisers should attend the July and December meetings of the proceedings committee.
The following provides a rough guide to the timetable for planning the conference.
- July: Organisers are asked to present to the
proceedings committee a provisional plan outlining:
- Conference venue;
- Plans for residential accommodation;
- Provisional budget;
- Ideas for invited speakers, training events, workshops, and social events.
- Early October: A call for papers is usually issued at the start of the academic year.
- November: Booking opens.
- December: Organisers should present to the proceedings committee a finalised budget and conference programme.
- January: The conference is held.
- February: A brief report is submitted to the proceedings committee by both the student representatives and the conference organisers.
Programme
Although student papers form the core of the programme, organisers should plan a range of activities, including:
- Distinguised invited speakers
- Pratice-led workshops (composition and performance)
- Training sessions for postgraduate researchers
- Social events
The student representatives are happy to discuss ideas at any time.