Elizabeth Barrett Browning would probably kill me for misappropriating her memorable poetical line! However, I’m only now realising the very many different ways in which one can achieve Fellowship.
A Disappointing Start
Many years ago, I tried to achieve a Fellowship of Trinity College London, in oboe performance. I’m afraid I didn’t succeed, remaining a Licentiate to this day – but I no longer call myself an oboist in any case; I haven’t played for years. To think that at one point, I couldn’t imagine myself not playing it!
Professional
I was more successful in librarianship. I attained Fellowship of CILIP (the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals) in 2010, only relinquishing it (my decision) when I stopped being a librarian. I was also made a Fellow of IAML(UK & Irl) as I approached the end of my career in music librarianship. (My official role was Performing Arts Librarian, but I was, essentially, a music librarian.)
Research
A couple of years ago, I enjoyed a Ketelbey Fellowship semester in the School of History at the University of St Andrews, and I’m currently a Fellow at IASH, University of Edinburgh.
I’m continuing my research activities as a postdoctoral research fellow at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland – that’s my permanent part-time role. Would I cause confusion by mentioning that I was also awarded Fellowship of the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland in Autumn 2024?
And Today … FRHistS
I was delighted to learn that I’ve just been elected a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society. This is a worldwide organisation with a long and distinguished history, so Fellowship really is an honour. I’m one of 78 new Fellows this summer. Since I’ve taken the greatest interest and pleasure in historical research in the latter part of my career – as evidenced by my publications record – this news is a source of quiet satisfaction.
Karen McAulay, Musicologist 