Artist Diploma - Royal Academy of Music

Hi, my name is Daniel and conducting has been my dream for as long as I can remember. I have been blessed with some amazing experiences that have shown me that this dream is in reach, such as conducting the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra in their 'Emerging Conductor's Showcase' this summer, and being mentored by my conducting idol Paavo Järvi in Estonia last year. I have also just finished my Masters in Conducting at the Royal College of Music, graduating with a Distinction with Honours.

I believe I am at a crucial point in my life, where if I keep studying hard, and immersing myself in as many opportunities as possible, I can build the immeasurably rewarding life I have received a glimpse of and feel close to achieving. I have been offered a place to study for an Artist Diploma at the Royal Academy of Music, which I believe will give me the focus and mentorship to ensure my skills reach the professional level I need in order to be successful in conducting competitions - the gateway to a career.

However, the cost of this course is challenging for me without help. I work hard, travelling to conduct amateur orchestras (whom I all love!) and teaching conducting, but whereas this just about covers my living expenses in London, it doesn't really scratch the surface of the £13,000 tuition fees for my year at the RAM. I am also being invited to participate in international masterclasses, such as one in Prague I am attending this summer with the Moravian Philharmonic Orchestra, but these will soon be too expensive for me to consider, considering each course costs around £3,000.

I would be so incredibly grateful for any help that any of you could give me, and please know that I will be working extremely hard and devoting myself to achieving success as a professional conductor.

Thank you. X