JRNCM Young Artists
JRNCM Young Artists is a year-round training programme for aspiring pop musicians aged 11-18 from across the North West.
Launched in 2022, it opens up access to world-class music education, helping young people develop their talent, build confidence, and realise their potential.
Delivered by the RNCM’s renowned Popular Music department, weekly sessions in composition, production, and performance are led by professional tutors and student mentors. Participants work in bands, create and record original music in our state-of-the-art studios, and share their work through regular gigs and showcases.
Key Information
Age: 11-18
Applications Open: 29 Jan
Applications Close: 5 Mar
Programme Details
JRNCM Young Artists work with young musicians who have ideas, talent, and ambition. They may have received previous tuition or coaching, or be self-taught ‘bedroom musicians’ accessing structured training for the first time. Whatever their background, potential, commitment, and creativity are the most important factors, and no specific qualifications are required.
Structure
JRNCM Young Artists provides an inspiring and supportive environment in which young people can develop their skills, confidence, and creativity.
Our Young Artists cohort is split into three competency-based groups, with each group working on a specialised curriculum relevant for their experience level and skill set. Sessions consist of theory and curriculum lectures, group tutorials, and band skills workshops. Each term, participants work in bands alongside RNCM tutors, to write and develop original music, rehearsing together, and share new material both in person and online. They also work alongside student mentors from our prestigious Popular Music programme, meet like-minded peers, and explore new creative ideas in a welcoming environment that encourages experimentation and collaboration.
Principal Study Options
- Drumkit (Pop)
- Guitar (Bass) (Pop)
- Guitar (Electric) (Pop)
- Piano/Keyboards (Pop)
- Pop Instrumentalist
- Voice (Pop)
The Team
-
Andy Stott
Head of Popular Music
-
Katerina Kaifa
Creative Multi-Specialist (Singer-Songwriter)
-
Matt Wilde
Young Artists Keyboard Tutor
-
Olly Becker
Young Artists Vocals Tutor
-
James Homer
Young Artists Drums Tutor
Entry Requirements and Fees
Applications for JRNCM Young Artists 2027 entry open in January.
Please complete your application via the Junior Programmes Portal, where you will be prompted to submit a short audition video.
Videos can be submitted as a private YouTube link within your application form or – if preferred – via email to [email protected]. Please note that we cannot accept links to social media pages or public videos.
The deadline for completing your application, including your audition video, is Friday 5 March 2027. Applications received after this date will not be considered.
Fees and Funding
A full academic year is 30 weeks in two 15-week semesters (or terms). RNCM Young Artists attend for two hours every Saturday during term time.
Fees for 2026/27 are £1,250 per year.
Bursaries
JRNCM Young Artists offers significant bursary support to eligible students, aimed at those whose financial circumstances have previously prevented them from accessing music training. We understand that financial considerations are important, and the RNCM is committed to making our programmes accessible to all talented musicians. Alongside transformational music training and experiences, the project will increase their confidence and open pathways for education and development that would otherwise be out of reach.
JRNCM Young Artists is generously supported by the Signatur Programme, which is the umbrella name for The Karlsson Játiva Charitable Foundation’s work for the advancement of the art of music.
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 RNCM’s Senior Designated Person responsible for safeguarding is Emma Hilton-Wood, Academic Registrar, who can be contacted on 0161 907 5361 or by email at [email protected]. You can also contact the College’s Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead Paul Hynes on [email protected].
Our relevant policies are available for download on the safeguarding page.
Resources
-
JRNCM Young Artists Privacy Statement
Visit