Jonathan Lemalu and Mark Austin announced as Deputy Head and Assistant Head of Vocal and Opera

Friday 26 September 2025

The Royal College of Music (RCM) is delighted to announce that award-winning bass Jonathan Lemalu will take on the role of Deputy Head of Vocal & Opera and distinguished pianist, coach and conductor Mark Austin joins as Assistant Head of Vocal & Opera from 29 September 2025. 

These appointments follow Audrey Hyland's appointment as Head of Vocal & Opera in July and, alongside Michael Rosewell as Director of Opera, complete the leadership team of the Vocal & Opera Faculty.

Andrew Moore, Artistic Director of the Royal College of Music, commented: ‘Following extremely competitive recruitment processes I am delighted to be welcoming Jonathan and Mark to the College. Both bring strong commitments to nurturing and guiding young singers alongside their performing careers, which greatly impressed us together with their understanding of the highest international standards.’ 

Grammy award-winning bass Jonathan Lemalu has performed on the stages of the world’s leading opera houses, concert and recital halls, while his extensive recordings have won critical acclaim including Gramophone Debut Disc of the Year. An alumnus of the Royal College of Music, he has been vocal studies professor at the College since 2023 where he has demonstrated his commitment to teaching and will bring his vast experience to further inspire and guide students in this new role. 

Jonathan Lemalu commented: ‘It is a privilege to accept the role of Deputy Head with an esteemed Vocal & Opera Department and leadership team, of which I have a deep respect and admiration as both alumnus and colleague. I’m proud to support and advocate for our faculty and students as they grow, create, and empower their own unique academic and artistic journeys at the RCM.’

Mark Austin brings wide-ranging expertise as a pianist, coach and conductor across opera, orchestral and choral repertoire. He has worked with leading ensembles and companies worldwide including The Royal Opera, Garsington and The Grange Festival and has directed opera scenes at both the Royal College of Music and Birmingham Conservatoire. In his new role, he will apply this breadth of expertise to opera productions, curating opera scenes and coaching singers. 

Discover more about studying in the Royal College of Music Vocal and Opera Faculty where students receive tailored training designed to nurture exceptional young singers and prepare them for successful performing careers.

Photo of Jonathan Lemalu by Sussie Ahlburg and photo of Mark Austin by Klaudia Taday.