Royal Holloway is delighted to welcome two new Graduate Fellows to its music community for 2026–27: Amy Bach (Graduate Fellow in Collaborative Piano) and Daniel Ayers (Graduate Fellow in Choral Music).
The new fellowships provide an opportunity for emerging musicians to develop their professional experience alongside their work with students, performers, and staff at Royal Holloway. Through their roles, Amy and Daniel will contribute to the department’s vibrant programme of performance and music activity, while sharing their knowledge and experience with the next generation of musicians here at the university.
Amy Bach, Graduate Fellow in Collaborative Piano
Amy Bach joins Royal Holloway as Graduate Fellow in Collaborative Piano following her studies at the Royal Academy of Music. As part of her role, she will work closely with students and contribute to the department’s performance activity, bringing her experience as a collaborative pianist into the Royal Holloway community.
“I'm so thrilled to join Holloway Music as the collaborative piano fellow! I'm looking forward to making music with the students and sharing that with audiences. It is a great honour to fill this role so soon after completing my degree at the Royal Academy of Music.”
Daniel Ayers, Graduate Fellow in Choral Music
Daniel Ayers returns to Royal Holloway as Graduate Fellow in Choral Music, having previously studied as an undergraduate at the University and served as an Organ Scholar. His new role will see him contribute to Royal Holloway’s rich choral tradition, working with students and supporting the University’s wide-ranging programme of choral music and performance.
“I am delighted to have taken up the position of Graduate Fellow in Choral Music at Royal Holloway. Having studied as an undergraduate at Royal Holloway, alongside being Organ Scholar, I was given so many opportunities and experiences that have shaped me not just as a musician but also as a person and I will forever be grateful for that. I'm very excited to continue developing my own experiences as a choral musician, but also to be supporting our current students and helping them to craft their own skills and experiences with the same passion and dedication that I experienced.”
Supporting the next generation of musicians
Professor Mary Dullea, Director of Music Performance, welcomed the appointment of both Graduate Fellows:
“I am so proud and happy that Royal Holloway has these two fantastic Graduate Fellows in our community this year. These positions affirm our commitment to supporting students and professionals at all stages, including this time transitioning between study and full-time work.
“What is particularly magical is experiencing that space where ideas and knowledge are shared with our current student body, in lively and tangible ways. The support Amy and Dan bring us this year is tremendous and I know they will leave us in a year’s time with a wealth of professional and practical experiences, and will go on to share the vision and values we hold at Royal Holloway.
“I hope you meet and see Amy and Dan in action soon!”
The Graduate Fellowships reflect Royal Holloway’s commitment to creating opportunities for musicians at every stage of their development. By bringing emerging professionals into the heart of the University’s musical community, the roles create a valuable exchange of ideas, experience, and expertise between staff, fellows, and students.
