The Royal Conservatory of Music has announced a transition in the leadership of The Glenn Gould School, the RCM’s post-secondary performance training school. James Anagnoson will be stepping away from the position of Dean of GGS effective this summer.
Anagnoson has occupied the position since 2007. As of summer 2026, he will be redirecting his efforts towards teaching and mentorship as the new Director of The Glenn Gould School Piano Department. He will also continue to play a role as a member of the GGS piano faculty, and oversee the Piano Master Class Program.
In recognition of the key role that he’s played during his tenure, Anagnoson will become Dean Emeritus when he leaves his current position.
“James Anagnoson’s connection to The Royal Conservatory of Music spans a remarkable 50 years,” said Alexander Brose, Michael and Sonja Koerner President & CEO of The Royal Conservatory in a statement. “His impact on The Glenn Gould School since 2007, and on generations of young musicians around the world, cannot be overstated. His unwavering commitment to excellence, humanity, and mentorship has truly defined this great institution.”
Dean Designate: Barry Shiffman
Barry Shiffman has been named Dean Designate of GGS effective immediately. His relationship with The Royal Conservatory dates back many years. He began his music studies at the RCM, followed by the University of Toronto, Utrecht Conservatory, Hartt School of Music, Juilliard School and Yale University. In 2010, he took on the role of Associate Dean and Director of Chamber Music at The Glenn Gould School, and Director of The Taylor Academy.
Shiffman has a busy career as a performer, teacher, administrator, and recording artist. Barry made his debut with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra at the age of 15. He went on to co-found the celebrated St. Lawrence String Quartet, and performed more than 2,000 concerts across the globe with the ensemble over a 17 year period. SLSQ recorded several acclaimed releases with EMI Classics.
Shiffman has also held multiple roles at the Banff Centre, including Director of Music Programs, Artistic Director of the Centre’s Summer Classical Music Programs, and since 2006, Executive Director of the Banff International String Quartet Competition. He is the Artistic Director of Rockport Music in Massachusetts, a role that sees him responsible for all the classical programming, including a five-week summer chamber music festival.
As of July 20, Shiffman will become Dean of both The Taylor Academy and The Glenn Gould School.
“The Royal Conservatory is where I started my music journey, and it has been my artistic home for many years. It is an honour to be asked to serve as Dean of The Glenn Gould School,” said Barry Shiffman. “James Anagnoson’s leadership has shaped the school in lasting and meaningful ways, and I am deeply grateful for his mentorship and example. I look forward to building on the remarkable foundation he has established, working closely with our faculty and students, and ensuring continuity while embracing the opportunities ahead.”
“Barry Shiffman’s appointment represents a natural and exciting continuation of James Anagnoson’s legacy. His deep connection to the entire RCM community across Canada, in addition to his internationally renowned artistic and academic vision steeped in innovation, makes him the perfect choice to guide GGS into the future. I look forward to continuing to work with both Jim and Barry in the years to come,” Brose adds.
Final Thoughts
Anagnoson has been on the piano faculty at GGS since its was founded in 1987.
“It has been one of the great privileges of my professional life to serve as Dean of The Glenn Gould School,” said James Anagnoson.
“After many deeply rewarding years in this role, I am looking forward to devoting more of my time and energy to teaching, mentoring, and working directly with our extraordinary students. I remain profoundly committed to GGS and to its future, and I am delighted that Barry Shiffman, whose artistry, leadership, and dedication to our community are so well known, will be guiding the next chapter,” he added.
Anagnoson earned a Bachelor’s degree from the Eastman School of Music, followed by a Master’s degree from The Juilliard School. Alongside a performing career, much of it as part of the Anagnoson-Kinton duo with fellow pianist Leslie Kinton, he has also taught at the University of Toronto and the University of Western Ontario.
Best of luck to Anagnoson and Shiffman in their new roles.
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