Honorary Fellowship

School of Music alumnus Tony Woodcock was awarded a Cardiff University Honorary Fellowship at the School's graduation ceremony in St David's Hall this week.

Honorary Fellowships are awarded to individuals who have achieved international distinction in their field.

Tony Woodcock, currently President of New England Conservatory, said: "Cardiff was and is very important to me. It gave me my very first major opportunities which then began my career and it welcomed me back as the first General Manager of Saint David's Hall. My musical education was shaped and developed in Corbett Road and this has informed all my actions. You don't forget such contributions to your life so returning to receive this great honour is very much my Ithaca moment."

Tony became President of New England Conservatory in June 2007, following a career as an orchestra manager in both the UK and the United States. After graduating from Cardiff University in 1974 he began a career in arts management with positions at the Welsh Arts Council and South East Arts, returning to Cardiff in 1984 as General Manager of the newly opened St David's Hall.

He has held Chief Executive positions with a number of orchestras and is widely respected for revitalising the financial performance and artistic leadership of the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, Bournemouth Symphony, Oregon Symphony, and Minnesota Orchestra.