Martyn Bennett (1971—2005) studied classical violin, viola, piano and composition at the RSAMD, graduating in Performance in 1993. Having previously won several junior bagpipe championships, his many awards included the RSAMD Prize for Composition (1989), the Hilda Bailey Prize for excellence in violin (1992), and the RSAMD Honorary Doctor of Music (2005, posthumous). In 1998 readers of ‘Scotland on Sunday’ voted him winner of Glenfiddich Spirit of Scotland Award for Music.
During his career, Martyn’s prodigiously talented performances and compositions ranged from the formality of the classical orchestra, solo violinist in Stravinsky’s ‘Soldier’s Tale’ and solo instrumentalist and composer across the worlds of classical music, jazz, folk, rock, hip-hop and world music. Bennett made his mark in each of these spheres and his influence continues to be felt throughout the musical world.
His music features in ‘Off Kilter’ (currently at Glasgow’s Theatre Royal & tour of. 2010), in television ads such as the exciting Strathmore Water routine, the internationally renowned National Theatre of Scotland’s production ‘Black Watch’, and in many more critically acclaimed productions.
As one of Martyn’s aims was to encourage young musicians, the RSAMD presents an annual Martyn Bennett Memorial Scholarship to be awarded to a student who shows both talent and creativity with a sense of adventure. The recipient will receive £200 along with performance opportunities that connect with Martyn’s world of music, including rehearsal and recording space to advance a music project that could benefit from 3 or 4 days ‘away from it all’. (Accommodation included).
The recipient will be nominated from Years 1 to 3 of the Scottish Music degree, or, exceptionally, from another RSAMD course, to a student who fits the criteria described. It is hoped that recipients will also give a performance recital in the RSAMD to help raise funds for the scholarship. Individuals can also support this scholarship by making a donation (payable to the RSAMD Trust) or by contributing £4 for the purchase of the CD, Love and Loss which features Cameron Drummond, recipient of the first award.
CD available at the RSAMD reception desk.
Information about the scholarship: contact Mr A. Smith, RSAMD Finance Office
