Junior RNCM Curriculum

We want all our students to reach their full potential, which is why we encourage them to approach Junior RNCM with professionalism, commitment and determination.

Our day runs from 9.30am until 4.30pm and includes intensive individual tuition and ensemble coaching from a dedicated team of tutors. Internationally-renowned artists also present masterclasses throughout the year, heightening the breadth of training and different musical perspectives we are proud to offer.

In addition to Principal Study, students receive tuition on a second instrument (usually piano) as we recognise that learning another provides opportunities to enhance musicianship, both individually and with others.

With the exception of our youngest musicians, all students undertake the full curriculum each week. This includes:

Principal and Second Study

Academic Studies
Musicianship/Improvisation
Theory/Harmony
Composition/Arranging
Advanced Aural/ Advanced Compositional Analysis

Chamber Music Coaching (for example)
Guitar Duo
Jazz Quintet
Piano Duo, Trio and Quintet
Percussion Duo
Recorder Sextet
Saxophone Quartet
String Quartet
Trombone Quartet

And at least one of the following (as directed by the Head of Junior RNCM):
Big Band
Brass Band
Percussion Ensemble
Sinfonia
Chamber Orchestra
Vocal Ensemble

Completing the full programme requires exceptional technical ability and physical stamina, which is why we offer a Foundation Section for our youngest students. This shortened curriculum enables them to develop the necessary skills and resilience to join as full Juniors when the time is right, while still receiving an outstanding music education. It includes Principal and Second Study tuition, Eurhythmics Class, Theory and participation in the Foundation Choir.

Practice
In order to maximise the benefit of the teaching they receive each Saturday, students at all levels are expected to devote time to regular practice during the week. We understand that this can be difficult, but our tutors are skilled in helping students establish a routine that works for them.

Attending Junior RNCM has been a wonderful opportunity for my daughter to share her passion and aspirations with other talented and like-minded people. She has been inspired by new approaches to composition and through Academic Studies has developed a huge desire to understand how and why music works in the way that it does.
Jayne, Junior RNCM parent

Sample Timetables

To give you an idea of what a day at Junior RNCM might look like, click on the tabs below to view some sample timetables. This information has been given as a guide only.