University News Last updated 08 August 2023
Dr Luan Shaw has been awarded a prestigious National Teaching Fellowship (NTF) in recognition of her outstanding teaching and commitment to music education in her role as Director of Postgraduate Studies (Music) at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire (RBC).
A former student of the RBC, which is part of Birmingham City University (BCU), Dr Shaw’s work has boosted student employability and led to a significant expansion of instrumental teacher education across the curriculum.
Dr Shaw said she was delighted to receive the NTF from Advance HE, adding: “It endorses my long-term commitment to raising the profile of instrumental music teaching as a valued career pathway and inspires me to continue advocating for instrumental teacher training in higher music education.”
The NTF is the top individual teaching honour for university lecturers and researchers in the United Kingdom.
Professor Julie McLeod, Pro Vice-Chancellor of Learning and Teaching at BCU, said: “Only a few such awards are made annually, so competition is intense.
“Luan’s award recognises her outstanding contributions in music education and the work she has led, through Royal Birmingham Conservatoire and wider external communities, in building a workforce of skilled education professionals who will ensure the longevity of music-making for future generations of young leaners. Congratulations to Luan on this fantastic achievement.”
Dr Shaw’s association with RBC spans 30 years, from her early years as a student.
She has served in a number of roles, including Head of Woodwind and Brass in RBC’s Junior Department (1993–2004), Consultant in Pedagogy (2010–11), Visiting Tutor in Pedagogy (2011–13), Head of Pedagogy (2013–18), Director of Postgraduate Studies (2019-present), and a stint as Interim Vice Principal (Learning and Teaching) (2020–22).
She became a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (HEA) in 2018 and has since supported several RBC colleagues in their pursuit of Advance HE awards.
Dr Shaw is a professional performer and classical music practitioner. She has performed, toured and recorded with numerous orchestras and opera companies. She has also delivered hundreds of interactive performances and workshops in special schools, hospitals, hospices and care homes.