Fergus Dean Secures Place at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama (RWCMD) to Study Composition

King’s is extremely proud to announce that former pupil Fergus Dean has been accepted to study Composition  at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama (RWCMD) a highly prestigious, internationally recognised conservatoire, ranked among the best in the UK for drama and music. 

His achievement is the result of years of dedication to study and wholehearted involvement in school life. Above all, it is a story of confidence built steadily over time and a young musician who learnt to believe in his own ability.

Fergus joined King’s in Third Form in September 2020 as a boarder. From the outset, his musical promise was clear. During his time at King’s he was awarded a Piano Exhibition, a Sixth Form Organ Scholarship, a Choral Scholarship and the prestigious James Brother Scholarship for Organ. These honours recognised not only his talent, but also his commitment and work ethic.

A Lifelong Passion for Music 

Music was always a part of Fergus’ life. He began playing the piano at just five years old. Like many young musicians, however, recognising his own potential took time. Performing did not always come naturally, and by his own admission his confidence had to be developed.

Joining King’s proved to be a turning point.

Reflecting on his school journey, Fergus speaks not only about his musical development, but also about the growth of his self-belief and the encouragement that enabled him to move forwards with confidence and trust in his own instincts.

Outstanding Support from King’s 

Fergus is clear that his success has been shaped by the people around him. Of John Young, his Organ teacher and mentor he recalls how influential it was to learn from “someone who had built a successful musical career and was still so passionate about teaching.” Seeing that example made his own ambitions feel tangible and realistic.

Karen Ferguson, he explains, understood his dream from the beginning. “She always knew how to push me in the right way.” Her clarity and belief provided direction at important moments.

He also speaks warmly of his tutor, Lisa Cashmore, whose support extended far beyond the classroom. “Her support was unbelievable. It continued from the end of Fifth Form through Sixth Form and even after I left last year. That is what is so special about King’s. I still had the same level of support after my exams.”

That sense of care extended into boarding life. Fergus describes House Parent Tom Candler’s support as “consistent, strong and genuinely encouraging.” Knowing someone was always in his corner gave him the confidence to grow, both as a musician and as a young person.

Saying Yes to Opportunity 

Fergus often reflects on one piece of advice he received from an older pupil during his early days at King’s: say yes to everything. It became a philosophy he fully embraced.

He immersed himself in choir, chamber choir, vocal groups and quartet singing. He played in the orchestra, jazz combo, Rock Sox and Big Band, and performed in every school musical, including taking the lead role of the Beast in Beauty and the Beast. On one memorable occasion, he performed in every single act of a concert.

Beyond music, he represented King’s in rugby, squash, cricket and athletics, and joined the CCF Royal Marines. The breadth of experience stretched him in different ways, building resilience, discipline and stage presence.

He also credits the school’s culture of opportunity. “The facilities at King’s are brilliant. They are always open, which gives you time to practice and work on what matters most. All the little opportunities add up and shape you as a musician.”

One of his most memorable moments came during his final concert at King’s, when he performed one of his own compositions. “It was emotional. I felt proud of what I had achieved here, and it meant a lot that the audience enjoyed my music.” 

The Application and Audition Experience 

Once Fergus knew The Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama was where he wanted to study after school, he committed himself fully to the application process. His portfolio included three orchestral works and a choral composition that reflected his confident and developing creative style. 

When he arrived for his audition, the tutors recognised him from an earlier visit. It was a small detail, but it immediately put him at ease. The conversation flowed naturally and even ran over time. For Fergus, that sense of connection was reassuring and confirmed that he had found the right place. 

Hearing that he had secured his place was something he will never forget. “I was so pleased, relieved, and excited. It is a big step, and there is so much to learn, but that is what makes it so exciting.” 

Ready for what comes next 

Looking back, Fergus is certain of one thing: Confidence changes everything.

“I would say to anyone, do not doubt yourself. The confidence I built here at King’s transformed more than just my music. It shaped how I approached challenges, how I see opportunities, and how I carry myself in every part of life.”

Now preparing to join the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, Fergus looks forward to immersing himself in a community of like-minded musicians and is particularly excited to work with the Head of Composition, whose focus on film music aligns closely with his own ambitions.

Inspired by composers such as Hans Zimmer and Ludwig Göransson, he is drawn to music that tells a story and stirs emotion. “There is a special satisfaction in composing something that is your own. It is hard to explain, but it makes you incredibly proud.”

Everyone at King’s sends Fergus our warmest congratulations on this outstanding achievement. We have watched him take to the stage countless times with talent and quiet determination, and we are certain that, in the years ahead, his name will shine in lights far beyond King’s, just as it did here.