The Royal Conservatory of Music and the Royal Irish Academy of Music Sign Landmark Agreement
The Royal Conservatory of Music and the Royal Irish Academy of Music Sign Landmark Agreement
Published on February 4, 2026
Irish Government Delegation and Arts Leaders Engage to Strengthen Cultural Ties and Collaboration in Music Education
The Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) and the Royal Irish Academy of Music (RIAM) have formalized a new partnership during a visit by an Irish government delegation, strengthening international collaboration in music education, artistic exchange, and cultural engagement.
A Memorandum of Understanding establishes a collaborative framework running from 2026 to 2028, reflecting a shared commitment to advancing music education and cultural exchange. Areas of cooperation include early childhood music development, with RIAM’s adoption of the RCM Smart Start, an early childhood music program that combines neuroscience and best practices in music education, as well as joint initiatives supporting the development of young artists in both nations through curriculum exchange and strengthened cultural connections.
The signing took place in Toronto as part of the Government of Ireland’s Creative Industry Trade Mission to Canada, led by Patrick O’Donovan, Ireland’s Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport. The visit aims to strengthen cultural, educational, and creative ties ahead of the Canada–Ireland 180 programme in 2027, which will mark 180 years of diplomatic, cultural, and educational relations between the two countries. The delegation included senior government officials, diplomats, and cultural leaders, and engaged with Canadian political, cultural, and educational institutions, including The Royal Conservatory.
“This agreement reflects a shared commitment to excellence in music education and the power of the arts to connect communities across borders. We are proud to deepen our relationship with RIAM and Ireland and look forward to the creative and educational opportunities this collaboration will bring to students and artists in both countries.”
Alexander Brose
Michael & Sonja Koerner President & CEO
The Royal Conservatory of Music
Deborah Kelleher, Director of the Royal Irish Academy of Music added: “Institutional partnerships play a central role in Ireland’s international cultural engagement. As the oldest conservatoires in our respective countries, RIAM and the RCM share a long tradition of excellence. Minister O’Donovan’s visit highlights the value of cultural cooperation as a driver of diplomacy, exchange, and shared heritage, and this new partnership represents a meaningful contribution to strengthening Irish-Canadian cultural relations.”
As part of the visit, members of the delegation attended a special performance in Koerner Hall by students from The Taylor Academy, The Royal Conservatory’s pre-college program for gifted young musicians.
This collaboration highlights the role of long-standing cultural institutions in fostering sustained international engagement, supporting artistic development, and contributing to robust cultural relationships.