ICON: Radical professional development in the conservatoire

Abstract

The idea for the Innovative Conservatoire (ICON) was first proposed at the Reflective Conservatoire Conference in 2006. An international collaboration which stimulates knowledge exchange, innovation and reflective practice in conservatoires, ICON has opened up an area of work that is often carried out behind closed doors. Working via creative methods in an experimental, artistically orientated and safe environment, it has enabled both scrutiny and development of established pedagogies. It has become a beacon of innovative thinking and practice in specialist professional development for conservatoire teachers and leaders. This essay will draw on the author’s experiences as an ICON participant and Creative Director and interviews with a number of senior conservatoire personnel. It will reflect on future directions for ICON and for professional and leadership development in conservatoires.