Dr. Claire Mera-Nelson

Claire is Director, Music and London at Arts Council England where she is responsible for the development of national strategy and policy for music in England. Her work has included commissioning a major research study into Fairness and Inclusion in Classical Music and an Analysis of Opera and Music Theatre in England, the introduction of a new funding programme for the grassroots music sector and – in response to the Covid-19 pandemic – overseeing elements of the UK Government’s Culture Recovery Funds.

Originally a Baroque violinist working with many of the UK’s best known period instrument ensembles, for almost 10 years prior to joining the Arts Council in 2018 Claire was Director of Music at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance (formerly Trinity College of Music). Her doctoral research examined the role of music and culture in the creation of national identity. Known internationally as a passionate advocate for innovation and inclusion in the arts, Claire’s lifelong focus is enabling young people from all backgrounds to access and thrive in the music and wider arts industries, and building a secure and ambitious future for music and musicians everywhere.