How to Apply and Fees

Selection for Junior RNCM is made following auditions held each March and April for entry in September.

Entry requirements

The specialised musical training we offer means that entry is highly competitive. We receive a large number of applications from exceptionally talented young musicians and those accepted usually study with us for a minimum of two years.

To give a brief idea of what’s needed, successful candidates possess a combination of musicality, commitment and the potential to pursue music at conservatoire level. We know that the musical achievements of each applicant will vary depending on age, but we expect our younger to have ABRSM Grade 5 distinction on their Principal Study instrument.

Auditions

Applications for September 2025 entry to Junior RNCM will open on Friday 31 January 2025. We are holding our next open day on Saturday 8 February 2025, further information can be found below.

There is a one-off audition fee of £30. Once you have submitted your application form, we will contact you regarding payment.

Audition requirements

The audition panel consists of the Head of Junior Programmes and a specialist in the candidate’s Principal Study. All candidates are required to use the official accompanist provided, and time is given for rehearsal before audition. Candidates are asked to prepare the following:

• Two contrasting pieces on their Principal Study instrument/voice
• One piece on their Second Study (if applicable)

There may also be sight reading (Principal Study), theory questions and an aural test to ascertain a candidate’s musical potential. The panel will also ask questions about the candidate’s general music interest, previous experience and future aspirations. There will also be the opportunity for any questions about the Junior RNCM to be answered. All audition dates are agreed at the discretion of the Head of Junior Programmes. All candidates receive their results shortly after the audition. The decision is final and no correspondence can be entered into. Pupils are placed with tutors at the discretion of the Head of Junior Programmes. Opportunities are given for preferences to be expressed, and these will be given careful consideration.

Re-auditions

Each year Junior RNCM students are re-auditioned in order to retain their place on the course. During the re-audition, they must demonstrate satisfactory and significant progress in all areas of the Junior RNCM curriculum in addition to ongoing punctuality, attendance and commitment. They will also have the opportunity to discuss their timetables with the panel and set goals for the future.

Open Day

Our next Junior RNCM Open Day takes place on Saturday 8 February 2025.

The day will be split into two identical sessions from 10am – 1pm and 1.30 – 4.30pm, where you will sample life at the Junior RNCM, hear more about the wonderful opportunities available, and listen to some of our students in concert.

To book a place please fill in your details and preferences in our Online Booking Form. If you have any questions or issues with the sign-up process, please email the Junior RNCM Administrator, at [email protected] or call 0161 907 5264.

Fees and Finance

The Fees for 2025/26 will be available soon.

2023/24 fees can be seen below:

Fees are payable in advance annually, termly or by standing order over 10 months, and we require one term’s notice if a student wishes to withdraw.

We have a limited number of scholarships and bursaries available for cases of financial hardship. Applications for these are made once the audition process is over and offers have been made. Please contact the Junior RNCM Administrator, on 0161 907 5264 for more information.

Supporters

Junior RNCM is generously supported by The Eric and Margaret Kinder Charitable Trust, The Helen Rachael Mackaness Charitable Trust, The Joan Twining Award, The Leverhulme Trust, The Stoller Charitable Trust, The William and Frances Dobie Charitable Foundation, The Wolfson Foundation, The ABRSM, Awards for Young Musicians, The Stephen Bell Charitable Trust, The Ida Carroll Trust, The Sir John Fisher Foundation, The Graucob Music Awards, The Junior RNCM Endowment Trust, The RNCM Access Fund, RNCM Pathfinder, The Sylvia Swiffin Trust and the Department for Education – Music and Dance Scheme.