Creative Director appointed to National Centre for Music
The former Chief Executive at The Scottish Ensemble has been appointed to lead the creative direction for the new cultural hub planned for the former Royal High School building on Regent Road.
The National Centre for Music has named its Creative Director as Jenny Jamison.
Ms Jamison, former Chief Executive of internationally renowned string ensemble Scottish Ensemble, has taken the role to steer the concept and offering at the National Centre for Music, now that planning permission has been granted.
In addition to multiple roles at Scottish Ensemble, Jenny has also supported soloist Nicola Benedetti on her work in music education, and worked with the National Youth Orchestras of Scotland. She held one of three Scottish Fellowships for emerging global arts leaders with the International Society for the Performing Arts from 2017-20 and served as Interim Chair of the Association of British Orchestras, and Chair of New Opera in Scotland Events.
An experienced leader in the arts and a passionate amateur musician herself, Jenny is the perfect choice to lead the creative development of the National Centre for Music. She said: “Having the opportunity to work on a project that will celebrate and nurture Scotland’s incredible music sector is a huge privilege. We have such an important chance to create a hub where different musical genres can rub shoulders on a daily basis, and where musicians have space to develop new ideas and collaborations. I am looking forward to ensuring the awe-inspiring setting of the former Royal High School, and the special spaces within it, inspire audiences and artists alike and create a wonderful new intimate venue for Scotland.”
Plans are now well underway for the re-development of the Thomas Hamilton building on Calton Hill, with the announcement of a construction partner imminent.
Grant MacKenzie, Executive Director of the Royal High School Preservation Trust, said: “With her exceptional experience and deep passion for the arts in Scotland, Jenny is the ideal person to shape and guide our vision for the new National Centre for Music. Restoring the Royal High School building to its former glory is a huge undertaking and we need a strong team to help us ensure we create a vibrant cultural hub for the people of Edinburgh and the wider world, while celebrating the rich heritage of the building. Having Jenny as part of our team is a wonderful addition and we can’t wait to start implementing her ideas.”
