Royal College of Music

The Royal College of Music (RCM) is one of the world’s most well-known conservatoires. It was established in 1883 to replace the unsuccessful National Training School for Music. It was opened by the then Prince of Wales (later Edward VII).

There are nine faculties at the college, some of which include composition, keyboard, percussion and strings. Within each faculty are a number of specialised courses. Students can study at both undergraduate and graduate level.

Approximately half of the student body consists of international students, representing 55 countries between them. The university’s professors also come from around the world creating a diverse and global community.

The university has many performing groups including two jazz bands, five orchestras and the RCM International Opera School. These groups are known for their excellent showcases and are regularly invited to perform at national and international venues.

RCM’s alumni network is extensive and includes notable composers such as Holst, Vaughan Williams and Benjamin Britten. Conductors including Leopold Stokowski, Sir Colin Davis and Sir Roger Norrington and instrumentalists such as John Lill, Sir James Galway, and Natalie Clein are also former students of the college.

The college is located in the heart of South Kensington, in London, UK. South Kensington is often referred to as the home of arts, culture and science, so it is the perfect place for students to feel inspired. RCM is situated opposite the renowned Royal Albert Hall and backs onto some of the finest centres of scientific excellence. It is also within walking distance to several museums including the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the Victoria and Albert Museum.