Study
Why RNCM?
At the RNCM, we bring together a vibrant community of performers, composers, producers, researchers, and educators who are powering the music of tomorrow. As one of the world’s most progressive conservatoires, we’re proud to combine an international reputation for excellence with a supportive, creative environment where individual talent can thrive.
Ranked among the very best in the QS World University Subject Rankings, we’ve received six Times Higher Education Awards, a Global Teaching Excellence Award, and three Queen’s Anniversary Prizes for the quality and innovation of our work.
What sets us apart is the way we connect exceptional teaching and research with real-world experience. Through an enviable network of professional partners, placements, and industry opportunities, we help our students build the skills, confidence, and connections they need to succeed.
Schools and Departments
Academic Studies
Academic Studies underpins our Bachelor of Music with Honours programme and is an integral part of conservatoire training at the RNCM.
Chamber Music
Chamber music is an essential part of conservatoire training, developing the artistic, collaborative, and professional skills needed for a successful career in music.
Composition
Immersed in the legacy of Sir Harrison Birtwistle, Sir Peter Maxwell Davies, Alexander Goehr, Sally Beamish, Benjamin Wallfisch, Emily Howard, Daniel Kidane, and Grace-Evangeline Mason, our School of Composition is a laboratory of invention.
Conducting
Our conducting programmes are underpinned by the belief that you can only learn your craft by conducting other musicians in live rehearsal and performance.
Keyboard Studies
Our School of Keyboard Studies has a fantastic reputation for successfully developing the individual talents of young pianists.
Music Education
At the RNCM, Music Education is about understanding how people learn, engage with, and experience music, while developing the knowledge and practical skills to make a difference through teaching, leadership, and creative practice.
Popular Music
Home to the UK’s only four-year conservatoire-based undergraduate degree and exceptional postgraduate programmes, the RNCM is the premier training ground for students aspiring to be original artists, freelance musicians, and music industry professionals.
Strings
Life within our School of Strings is about unlocking potential. From intensive one-to-one training and a vast array of performance opportunities, to mental focus sessions with sports psychologists and motivational talks with the military elite, we strive to provide the right stimulus to ensure you flourish.
Research and Innovation
The RNCM provides a unique research environment in which musical creativity and experimentation can flourish by continually forging new connections between teaching, research, and performance.
Vocal Studies and Opera
The inspirational training provided by our School of Vocal Studies and Opera is renowned the world over.
Wind, Brass and Percussion
Building on a foundation of creativity, dedication, and determination, our School of Wind, Brass and Percussion provides an immersive and collaborative environment for young musicians.
At a Glance
Exceptional Teaching
Our professors and lecturers are internationally recognised performers, composers, producers, researchers, and educators who bring a wealth of professional experience into the learning environment.
Performance
Performance is central to conservatoire training one of the most exciting things about studying with us. As one of the UK’s busiest live music venues, we offer a diverse public programme of solo, chamber, and collaborative opportunities across all genres.
Professional and Industry Partnerships
The RNCM has forged strong partnerships and unique networks with orchestras, ensembles, and organisations worldwide, providing students with unrivalled opportunities for professional development while they study.
Collaboration
Collaboration is a key component of conservatoire education. Working together not only sparks creativity and heightens technical ability, but it also helps students to broaden their artistic perspectives, develop vital communication and interpersonal skills, and build confidence among peers.
Facilities
We pride ourselves on offering high-quality performance and rehearsal spaces alongside outstanding resources, ensuring our students work in a professional environment from day one.
Impact
The RNCM’s influence extends far beyond the institution. Through leadership roles on Greater Manchester civic and education boards, we help to embed arts and culture in regional growth strategies. Internationally, we lead global conservatoire networks that drive collaboration and innovation.
Manchester
Manchester has been a leading academic destination for 200 years, and today more than 100,000 national and international students call it home. The RNCM sits right at the heart of that community, on the Oxford Road corridor – the busiest and best-connected university hub in the country.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We provide over £3m in the form of student scholarships and bursaries each year. All applicants are automatically considered for a scholarship, and these are awarded based on performance ability and potential demonstrated at audition and interview.
Applications
How to Apply
Understand the conservatoire application process.
Key Deadlines
View upcoming dates and deadlines for 2027 entry.
Your Audition
Visit our Schools of Study to view audition requirements.
Student Spotlight
Emily Leavy | Saxophone
‘Being a student at the RNCM allows you to have some of the most amazing experiences and opportunities as a musician. The best part is that if you apply on the ‘classical’ course it doesn’t stop you from getting involved in multiple different genres. RNCM is the place to be for opportunities, inclusivity and community.’
