Junior RNCM

The Junior RNCM provides expert tuition and specialist training for children and young people (aged 8-18) with exceptional musical ability

Students receive highly specialised musical training without disturbing the balance of their weekday education and the normality of family life, while enjoying the benefits of making music with others of similar talents and aspirations. Junior RNCM operates on Saturdays during term time between 9.30am-4.30pm.

A very high percentage of our students go on to study music at conservatoire or university, whilst a small number continue with higher education in other disciplines, greatly enriched by their Junior RNCM experience.

The atmosphere in the Junior RNCM is welcoming, stimulating and purposeful and we place great emphasis on promoting a safe and caring environment for our students.

Open Day

The Junior RNCM Open Day will take place on Saturday 11 February 2017. The day provides an opportunity to visit the Junior RNCM, meet current staff, students and parents, and listen to the Juniors perform. For full details, contact the Junior RNCM on 0161 907 5264.

Prospectus

Click here to download your copy

Click here to view your copy on Issuu

If you would like to request a hard copy please contact Louise Nicholas on 0161 907 5264 or email louise.nicholas@rncm.ac.uk

Principal and Second Study

Intensive individual tuition is offered in a broad range of subjects, including: flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, saxophone, recorder, trumpet, cornet, french horn, tenor horn, euphonium, trombone, tuba, violin, viola, cello, bass, harp, guitar, piano, organ, harpsichord, timpani and percussion, voice, composition and conducting.

The majority of Junior RNCM students study the piano as either their first or second study instrument. In exceptional circumstances students are permitted to take a third study. This provision incurs an extra charge.

Performance Opportunities

The controlled development of the art of performing is an essential part of any musical education. Students are given the opportunity to gain platform experience through a carefully structured system. Performance opportunities are also provided on a frequent basis for our small and large ensembles. Short appearances in informal concerts lead to more formal occasions both internally in public recitals and externally through engagements at venues throughout the North of England.

Academic Studies

The Academic Studies component of the Junior RNCM timetable is considered to be of great importance in the training of all-round well-informed musicians.

All Juniors study theory, harmony, composition, aural perception, sight singing and improvisation as part of their overall musicianship training (with Eurhythmics for the Foundation Section students.

Pupils are taught in small groups of approximately five students allowing scope for individual attention. Although lessons are not strictly confined to material relating to the National Curriculum, students find that this work offers excellent support to their day school GCSE and A level music courses.

Composition is a particular strength within the Junior RNCM and several former and current pupils have had their works broadcast by the BBC or performed nationally. Our Young Composers’ Concerts provide an excellent focus for student output and competition for the Composition Prize is always fierce.

Ensemble Coaching

Ensemble coaching is regarded as a highly important element in the training of our young musicians and all Junior RNCM students receive coaching in carefully selected small groups.

Curriculum and Foundation Section

The Junior RNCM course is designed to give students a balanced exposure to the discipline of music and encourages them to develop into confident highly-skilled all-round musicians.

To this end, students pursue a comprehensive course which is tailored to their individual needs.

Students are required to undertake the following curriculum:

Principal Study – 1 hour
Second Study – 3/4 hour
Musicianship I (theory/harmony) or Composition – 3/4 hour
Musicianship II (aural perception/sight singing) or Improvisation – 3/4 hour
Ensemble Coaching – 3/4 hour

Plus one of the following as appropriate:

Brass Band – 1.5 hours
Orchestral training – 2 hours
Vocal Ensemble – 2 hours
Percussion Ensemble – 1.5 hours
Jazz Ensemble – 1.5 hours

Masterclasses

The regular teaching programme is supplemented by masterclasses given by distinguished visiting artists.

Foundation Section

Our youngest students are placed in the Foundation Section and attend for a shortened curriculum and at a reduced cost.

Students on the Foundation Section undertake the following curriculum:

Principal Study – 1 hour
Second Study – 1 hour
Eurhythmics class – 3/4 hour
Theory – 3/4 hour
Singing class- 3/4 hour

Foundation students normally become ‘full Juniors’ once their technical facility and physical stamina have reached the levels required for a full day’s activities.

For further information please contact the Head of Junior RNCM, Karen Humphreys, on karen.humphreys@rncm.ac.uk

Safeguarding

The RNCM is committed to ensuring the safety and welfare of children and vulnerable adults studying in the College by raising awareness of safeguarding and promoting a safe environment in which to learn and explore music.

The College’s Senior Designated Person responsible for safeguarding is Ms Susan Baines, Executive Director: 0161 907 5321 or email susan.baines@rncm.ac.uk.

Our relevant policies are available for download on the College’s Safeguarding page.