Oboist Fergus McCready, who graduated from the Academy with a Master's just last summer, has been appointed as the next Principal Oboe of the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House. Having worked with the company during his studies, Fergus performed in multiple ballets and operas, one of which was Antonio Pappano’s final opera at Covent Garden as Music Director. Fergus will begin his new role in November, when he performs in Puccini's Tosca.

'The support and amazing tuition I received from my peers and professors at the Academy gave me the best possible start to my professional career.'

Fergus McCready

Recent graduate Frederico Paixão has joined the Scottish Ballet Orchestra in the role of Principal Flute. Frederico completed both his undergraduate and Master's degrees at the Academy, studying with Samuel Coles and Helen Keen. His first performance with the Scottish Ballet Orchestra in this new position will be in Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker this December.

'The years I spent at the Academy were absolutely fantastic. The breadth of opportunities and resources I had access to was unmatched, both musically and academically. I always felt completely supported and cherished, and I had a real sense of progression across both degrees.'

Frederico Paixão

We are also pleased to share that another recent Woodwind Department graduate, Hugo Mak, is now the Principal Contrabassoon of the Malmö Symphony Orchestra. Hugo took up this full-time role in May, and regularly performs at the Malmö Live Concert Hall as part of the orchestra's busy schedule.

'The Academy was an amazing place to develop myself as a musician. I had the chance to learn from multiple teachers from London's best orchestras and participate in masterclasses with musicians from top orchestras around the world, including the Vienna Philharmonic and Royal Concertgebouw.'

Hugo Mak

The Academy would like to congratulate Fergus, Frederico and Hugo on their brilliant new roles. Commenting on these appointments, Fraser Gordon, the Academy's Head of Woodwind, said: 'Everyone in the department is extremely pleased for these three fabulous players who we know will excel in their new positions and also, importantly, I know that Fergus, Fred and Hugo will each make excellent colleagues in their new orchestras.'

The Woodwind Department is holding a Discovery Event on Friday 27 September, a day of activities where prospective students can find out more about studying at the Academy. Sign up here.