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Frequently Asked Questions

RNCM Archive FAQs

What sort of records do you hold?
The Archive contains organisational records of The Royal Manchester College of Music and the Northern School of Music, as well as the personal papers of many people with connections to the College. A more detailed overview of our holdings is available.

Are there any limitations on using the records?
Although most of our material can be viewed by researchers, the Archivist may occasionally have to restrict access. If access is restricted, it will usually be to protect fragile documents, or to comply with policies and legislation, such as the Data Protection Act. For advice on access, please contact the Archivist on 0161 907 5211.

Can anyone look at the records?
All bona fide researchers are welcome to visit and look at the records, subject to the rules of use and access. On arrival, researchers must fill out an application and undertaking form, and provide proof of identity. Archive material is viewed in the Library. Readers will therefore be asked also to sign the Library Visitors Book each time they use the Library.

Do I need an appointment to look at records?
Yes. The Archivist will need at least two days' notice to ensure that the documents are made available.
Generally, all our material is still in original format and has not been digitised. Certain documents, however, have been digitised for inclusion in our online exhibitions. These may be viewed here.

Can I get a copy of a document?
Copies can be provided subject to preservation requirements, and within the provisions of the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988. Many items can be photocopied; in line with the Archives Preservation Policy certain categories of material cannot eg: bound volumes and photographs. This is to protect and preserve them for the future. Such items may, however, be digitally photographed to provide a quick reference copy (NB quality may vary!). All copying is undertaken by the Archivist; please ask for further information if you require a copy of a particular record.

I am trying to trace a family member. Can you help me?
Generally, all our material is still in original format and has not been digitised. If the family member attended the Royal Manchester College of Music please contact the Archivist with their full given name (in addition to a professional or stage name, if different) and rough dates. The RMCM opened in 1893 and merged with the Northern School of Music to form the RNCM in 1973. Dates of attendance, diploma/degree awarded, and subject of principal study can usually be established. However more detailed information (eg: weekly timetables, personal information including relationships with other family members, address of student lodging, names of all teachers, all repertoire studied etc) is not often recorded. For former members of staff there may be correspondence concerning their appointment and some other details.

If the family member attended the Northern School of Music please contact the Archivist with their full given name (in addition to a professional or stage name, if different) and rough dates. The NSM opened in 1942 and merged with the Royal Manchester College of Music to form the RNCM in 1973. Student and staff records are, however, not complete.

Can you do research for me?
Yes, the Archivist will undertake a limited amount of research, generally no more than an hour, free of charge. Please email This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it   or telephone 0161 907 5211 for further information. It is worth checking the online catalogue prior to making an enquiry. See www.rncm-archive.rncm.ac.uk

I am new to using archives. Is there any general guidance on using archives available?
You may find the ARTS tutorial guidance helpful - available here

Where can I find other sources of information?
The RNCM Library catalogue, covering our printed books, recordings and music is available here
If you are interested in collections relating to music in other archives and libraries, the following list of resources, though not comprehensive, may be useful: