RNCM Oral History Project

Alan Rawsthorne, composer and former Royal Manchester College of Music student

History is all around us – everyone has their story to tell.  Historical documents and records can only tell us so much about our past.  Oral history helps to fill in the gaps and gives us history which includes everyone.  It complements official documents by providing a personal view of historical moments.  A concert programme will tell us who performed and the programme of works which is of course interesting and useful.  An oral history recording of someone who attended the concert, however, could tell us about the atmosphere, the reactions of the audience, the feeling when the music started and ended and even about their pre- and post- concert plans.  A much more vivid picture can thus be drawn of the event.

The RNCM Archives is currently running an oral history project which needs your help.  Whether student, staff or concert attendee (past and present); whether your memories relate to the RNCM or one of its predecessor bodies, the Royal Manchester College of Music and the Northern School of Music, we want to hear from you.  All memories count - lectures, colleagues, concerts and other events, exams, student accommodation, careers upon graduation... all stories will help to contribute to an exiciting and vibrant history of the College which will complement the already rich archival collections held here.

Elizabeth Harwood, soprano and former Royal Manchester College of Music student

Your memories are of value not just to you as an individual but also to posterity.  Alumni, academics and historians can all benefit from your shared experiences.   

If you would like to be involved in this project or would like further information, then please contact the College Archivist and Records Manager on T 0161 9075211 or E This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .