RNCM - Royal Northern College of Music

25/12/2022

Wishing our fabulous community a fun-filled and relaxing holiday. Enjoy! 🎄🥂🎉

20/12/2022

We absolutely loved welcoming our Class of 2022 back last week! Enjoy the pics 📸🎉🥳🎓

Credit: Roscoe Rutter

16/12/2022

RNCM Engage Appeal: Message from Alexis Ffrench, ABRSM Artistic Director

We're incredibly grateful for the generosity our community has shown towards the RNCM Engage Appeal. We have just over £10,000 to go to reach our goal of £60,000 - will you help us get there? All donations will directly support our work in creating musical opportunities for under 18s.

To find out more about the vital impact your donation can make, listen to composer, producer and pianist Alexis Ffrench discuss the importance of our Engage programmes: rncm.link/Alexisfb.

To make a donation, visit rncm.link/EAFB.

To support the RNCM Engage Appeal and help change young lives through music, donate at rncm.ac.uk/engageappeal.

15/12/2022

RNCM Congregation of Awards 2022

Congratulations to everyone who graduated yesterday. We can’t wait to see where your love of music takes you!

‘If you’d have asked me exactly five years ago what I’d wish for, it would have been to study at the RNCM. The atmosphere when you come into the building here every day is what makes this community so special. The inspiration and energy we’ve gained from learning in this place is unlike something we may experience again. So on a day when you feel no inspiration, remember why you fell in love with music in the first place. Today, we are officially proud Northerners and I hope that feeling will continue on for a lifetime.’ Sinéad Walsh, SU President

Congratulations to our Class of 2022!

13/12/2022

Our Spring season has landed! 🤩 We've got an incredible line-up of visiting artists and innovative performances from the next generation of musicians all taking place in the heart of Manchester.

Plus some of our annual festivals like our Brass Band Festival and Day of Percussion return alongside new celebrations like Original Voices that re-imagines how we perform and present works from the past.

Our Spring season rounds off with another RNCM Opera production this time taking us to the residence of Mansfield Park.

Join us this spring and experience the future of music!

More info >> https://rncm.link/sp23wo



Roderick Williams - Baritone
Anna Clyne
Jonathan Dove

09/12/2022

Our production of Strauss’ Die Fledermaus starts tomorrow!

We didn’t want to give too much away, so here’s a few backstage shots of our cast and orchestra.

Performances take place on Saturday 10 and 17 December at 3pm and on Monday 12, Tuesday 13, and Thursday 15 at 7.30pm. Join us – you might even uncover a few 50th anniversary surprises!

rncm.link/rncmopera22

Photo credit: Robin Clewley Photography

06/12/2022

This week we tasked our students with the impossible - give us a synopsis of RNCM Opera’s upcoming production of Die Fledermaus in 60 seconds or less.

Watch the video to see if they were up to the challenge! 😁
Do you think you have what it takes to summarise Die Fledermaus in 60 seconds? Give it a go and tag us in your posts!

Plus don’t forget to get your tickets for our show, running from 10 to 17 December.

Tickets >> https://rncm.link/rncmopera22

Bonnie Callaghan

28/11/2022

A Day in the Life

‘I really want to highlight that if you live with disabilities or hardship, you can still study at places like RNCM and be supported by them and have a successful career, whatever that looks like to you.’

Fourth year vocalist and RNCM Digital Ambassador, Georgia Curwen is currently living with hidden disabilities. Despite the everyday challenges these bring, they wanted to show that studying at a conservatoire like ours is still possible.

We hope you enjoy Georgia’s video and that it encourages you to follow your aspirations, even when times are tough.

If you’d like to learn more about the health and wellbeing provision we provide, visit rncm.link/supandwell

23/11/2022

Interested in studying harp at conservatoire level?

Harp Tutor Anne-Marie O’Farrell is hosting an online introduction to the department on Wednesday 7 December.

She’ll be joined by current students and Anneleen Lenaerts, our International Visiting Tutor in Harp, providing you with lots of opportunities to ask questions about RNCM life and why this could be the right place for you.

The session starts at 1pm (UK time) and you can register in advance at rncm.link/harp.

A love of music opens doors to endless possibilities. Where will yours take you?

22/11/2022

RNCM Pathfinder provides free, bespoke musical training, mentorship and pastoral support for young musicians aged eight to 18 who are curious, full of potential and love nothing more than playing music, but face financial, social and/or cultural barriers to their musical progression.

The RNCM Engage Appeal is raising vital funds to support projects like Pathfinder, which use music to foster social change by increasing the confidence, motivation, and aspirations of young people.

To find out more and to donate, visit rncm.link/EAFB

21/11/2022

Our 2023 entry auditions are underway and we can't wait to meet this year's applicants.

We know that this is an important part of your musical journey and that you might feel nervous or anxious, but don’t worry, we’ll be with you every step of the way!

If you’re joining us in person, our friendly Student Ambassadors will be here to welcome you, provide a tour of our facilities and answer any questions you might have.

If you need a quick reminder about the requirements for your instrument, what to expect on the day, or the application process in general, visit rncm.ac.uk/youraudition.

18/11/2022

‘…this award is for technological innovation, and more than anyone else belongs to the RNCM’s Technical and Sound and Video Team. Their herculean effort meant the student experience was as positive as possible during a time when so much music making was decimated.’ Larry Goves, Head of Practice Research and Deputy Head of Composition

We’re beyond proud to say that the RNCM picked up its fourth Times Higher Education Award last night after winning the Technological and Digital Innovation of Year category for our response to teaching and performance during the pandemic.

Visit rncm.link/THEWin for more.

16/11/2022

Trailblazing cellist and former RNCM student Abel Selaocoe returns to our Concert Hall this Friday for an incredible evening of music.

Joining us for his debut album tour, Hae Ke Kae (Where is Home), Abel is redefining what it means to be a cellist through his use of improvisation, singing, body percussion and fusing Western and non-Western musical traditions together seamlessly.

Check out his recent interview with Channel 4 News at the RNCM here >> https://rncm.link/abelc4

We can’t wait to welcome Abel back to his alma mater along with The Bantu Ensemble.

Book your tickets today!

Intermusica

11/11/2022

The reviews are in! The RNCM Symphony Orchestra under Antony Hermus (Antony Hermus, Conductor) wowed audiences last week with their performance of Mahler’s monumental Symphony No 10.

It’s so exciting to see the next generation of musicians work alongside inspirational leaders like Antony to explore and perform incredible pieces of music.

Swipe through the photos to catch a glimpse of the night and click below to read the reviews.

Photo credit: Robin Clewley (Robin Clewley Photography)

https://rncm.link/rvno9so
https://rncm.link/rvjsso

10/11/2022

Performing to a packed theatre, our staff and students teamed up for a spectacular evening of music last month.

Our RNCM Session Orchestra: A Tribute to Black British Artists event featured music by Stormzy, Lord Invader, Labi Siffre, Shirley Bassey and more.

We’re thrilled that student Jean-Paul Asumu was able to work alongside tutors Nate Holder and Wayne Ellington Music to bring this event to life.

Jean-Paul said, ‘This project is so important to me because I’m showcasing the different ways that Black music has contributed to music and the music scene today.’

Swipe➡ through the photos to check out highlights from this event!

Photo credit: roscoerutter

09/11/2022

International French Horn Day

Last Thursday was International French Horn Day and to mark the occasion, our students presented a pop-up performance on our upper concourse featuring traditional hunting calls. Led by Murray Greig (Director of Brass and Head of Wind, Brass and Percussion), they were joined by Lindsey Stoker (Senior Tutor in French Horn), the Hallé’s Julian Plummer (Tutor in French Horn) and Phill Stoker from the BBC Philharmonic. And if that wasn’t enough, we also welcomed alumnus Jack Sindall alongside players from Junior RNCM and our Young Horns initiative!

09/11/2022

Each year, our Children’s Opera project brings together 150 local primary school-aged children to create and perform a fully-staged new musical production. With the help of a professional composer and RNCM students, the children write the script, compose the songs, and choreograph the action before performing their original work on our Theatre stage!

The RNCM Engage Appeal is raising vital funds to support projects like our Children’s Opera, so that young people can benefit from the incredible impact of learning, growing, and exploring through music.

To find out more and to donate, visit: rncm.link/EAFB

08/11/2022

We recently worked with the National Youth Choirs of Great Britain to present creative workshops to 25 young people from across North Yorkshire.

Hosted at Outwood Academy Easingwold, the two-day event focused on songwriting, with participants working alongside professional musicians to write three new tracks. Song themes, chosen by those taking part, included climate change, adolescent mental health, and home. Thank you to everyone involved – we hoped you enjoyed your time with us!

Projects like these form part of RNCM Pathfinder, a ground-breaking initiative providing young people with incredible opportunities to experience music and develop skills. If you’d like to learn more or see how you can support our work in this area, visit the Engage Appeal link in our bio.

07/11/2022

RNCM Principal: A Day in the Life - Royal Northern College of Music

‘The role of Principal of the RNCM is a real privilege but also brings huge responsibilities…When people ask me what I do, it’s really tricky to answer, as every day is different and presents a new set of challenges and opportunities.’

Ever wondered what it’s like to be Principal of a world-leading conservatoire?

Check out our latest blog post by Professor Linda Merrick, who offers an insightful glimpse into a busy, but fulfilling Monday working at the helm of the RNCM >> rncm.link/DITL

Professor Linda Merrick, Principal A Day in the Life: Monday 17 October 2022 The role of Principal of […]

04/11/2022

October was packed full of amazing content. There’s too much to share in our monthly round-up, but here’s a snapshot of what our community’s been up to over the past few weeks.

If you want to feature next time, keep tagging us in your posts using

04/11/2022

October was packed full of amazing content. There’s too much to share in our monthly round-up, but you can head over to Instagram for a snapshot of what our community’s been up to over the past few weeks.

If you want to feature next time, keep tagging us in your posts using

03/11/2022

It was great to welcome Trio Havisham (winners of our 2022 Christopher Rowland Chamber Ensemble of the Year Award) back to the RNCM today for a lunchtime performance of Schumann’s Piano Trio No 2 in F major Op 80.

Our students will be taking a well-earned rest next week, but don't worry, lunchtime concerts return on Monday 14 November with Beethoven’s Violin Sonata No 1 in D major. If you can’t wait until then, don’t forget that our Symphony Orchestra will be out in force tomorrow evening for a powerful performance of Mahler 10. Click here for more info >> rncm.link/soms10f

03/11/2022

Saxophone Day 2022

RNCM Saxophone Day is just around the corner and Co-Artistic Director Rob Buckland tells us all about our legendary Massed Saxophone Orchestra.

Join us for a jam-packed schedule of participatory workshops and concerts as we throw open our doors to players of all ages and abilities for the UK’s largest annual saxophone gathering. Plus we’ll be joined by special guests Marici Saxes, Gillian Blair and Baptiste Herbin Music alongside an expansive trade exhibition taking place throughout the day!

More info >> rncm.link/sax22f

02/11/2022

In partnership with Study UK - British Council, we’re offering two GREAT Scholarships worth £10,000 each to applicants from India enrolling on a one-year postgraduate course. Don't miss out on this opportunity - make your application today and see where your love of music will take you!
To learn more visit rncm.ac.uk/greatscholarships

02/11/2022

Tired of searching for your perfect home in Manchester? Don’t waste time arguing over the small stuff 😴 With you can find everything you need, with-all-inclusive bills AND social areas to meet new friends or chill with your old ones. Booking with US gives you the luxury of choice 🤩 Book now as a group of 4 or more for Sept 2023 and get a £150 voucher each 🤑

Link >> rncm.link/samfb

31/10/2022

Junior RNCM is a vibrant community of gifted young musicians aged 8 to 18 who come together to develop their talent within the Royal Northern College of Music. Every Saturday during term time the RNCM is their home; a place to study with exceptional tutors, perform with like-minded people and make long-lasting friendships.

The RNCM Engage Appeal will benefit projects like Junior RNCM, supporting music education from the earliest years and securing the future for many talented young people.

To find out more and to donate, visit: rncm.link/EAFB.

28/10/2022

Here's a sneak peek behind the scenes...Nate Holder (Nate), our International Chair in Music Education, has been working with our horn section this afternoon ahead of tomorrow's Session Orchestra gig.

Recognised internationally as an advocate for decolonising music education, Nate works as a consultant and speaker within the sector to address bias and underrepresentation in music education resources, departments, hubs and boards.

We're delighted to team up with Nate for this event as we pay tribute to some of the most celebrated Black British artists and their music.



More info>> https://rncm.link/so-oct

28/10/2022

Yesterday lunchtime, Graham Scott (Head of Keyboard Studies) and the Elmore String Quartet (Junior Fellows in Chamber Music) joined forces for an incredible performance of Franck’s Piano Quintet in F minor.

Lunchtime concerts happen most Mondays and Thursdays during term time, giving students the chance to collaborate and perform to public audiences.

If you’d like to join us, head to rncm.ac.uk/whats-on to see what’s coming up over the next few weeks.

27/10/2022

Today, Linda Richardson (Principal Study Tutor in our School of Vocal Studies and Opera) and David Jones (Head of Accompaniment) held an energetic performance class with postgraduates, offering them the chance to sing and receive feedback on specific repertoire.

Classes like this happen every day at the RNCM and are invaluable to our students’ professional and personal development, building a solid foundation to support their performance on stage.

If you’re preparing to study with us in 2023, don’t forget that the deadline for submitting your Stage 1 recording is 11.59pm tomorrow (28 October).

26/10/2022

Yesterday, acclaimed pianist and RNCM alumnus Steven Osborne held a one-to-one masterclass with student Edward Campbell-Rowntree. Together they worked on Tippett’s Sonata No 2, a work Steven recorded in 2007 and performed at the Edinburgh International Festival last year.

If you’d like to see Steven perform live, head down to the RNCM Concert Hall tonight at 7.30pm. More info >> rncm.link/sopf

25/10/2022

‘Our International Visiting Tutors provide an integral part of the learning opportunities for our students. They all bring with them a wealth of expertise, performance excellence and are a great source of inspiration. I am delighted to be able to welcome José, Pacho and Ross to our team.’ Murray Greig, Head of Wind, Brass and Percussion and Director of Brass

We’re excited to share that José Vicente Castelló, Pacho Flores and Ross Knight are joining our School of Wind, Brass and Percussion as International Visiting Tutors in French Horn, Trumpet and Tuba respectively.

Learn more at rncm.link/brass

24/10/2022

Today we’re launching the RNCM Engage Appeal as part of our commitment to supporting the future of music.

Watch the video to learn how vital funds raised will support our tailored programme of tuition for under-18s, enabling young people to enjoy the life-long benefits of learning, growing, and exploring through music.

To make a donation, visit rncm.link/EAFB.

22/10/2022

This week saw the launch of Turn It Up: The Power of Music exhibition at Manchester’s Museum of Science and Industry, encouraging us to feel, remember and reflect on what music means to us and the lives of others.

It features research by our very own Dr Michelle Phillips (Senior Lecturer in Music Psychology) who advised on the project from the outset. As part of the launch, Michelle was interviewed for Radio 4’s World Tonight, which included performances in the exhibition spaces by student ensemble Rosamund Brass and soprano Lucy Farrimond.

Listen back at rncm.link/r4wt 😊

21/10/2022

Did you know Students and Under 26s now get 50% off select events here at the RNCM? Check out our What's On section and experience the future of music! 🥳

More info>> https://rncm.link/wofb

20/10/2022

On Tuesday, staff and students joined the relaunch of RNCM Underrepresented.

Underrepresented…Continued! is a monthly open forum focussed on diversity and inclusion at the RNCM and within the music industry.

It was great to hear from alumnus Linton Stephens (Radio 3 broadcaster, bassoonist and Chair of the EDI Committee with the Musicians’ Union), and to listen to music by lesser-known composers performed by singer Verona-India Braich (accompanied by Paula Lopez-Atanet) and cellist Andrea Kim. The evening also included a panel discussion and the launch of a new funding project from our Belonging, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Forum, enabling students and staff to create and develop extra-curricular initiatives designed at making positive change for all.

19/10/2022

'I wanted to bring some attention to the contributions of the Black community to music… This project is so important to me because I’m showcasing the different ways that Black music has contributed to music and the music scene today. For me, my experience at RNCM has been about challenging myself to try and experience new things. I feel that this edition of Session Orchestra is really beneficial for not just myself, but for both RNCM students and the wider community.’

These are the words of our student Jean-Paul Asumu who in collaboration with tutors Nate Holder (Nate) and Wayne Ellington (Wayne Ellington Music) has curated this month’s RNCM Session Orchestra: A Tribute to Black British Artists.

Taking place on Saturday 29 October, we can’t wait for our students to take the stage for this incredible event featuring music by Stormzy, Lord Invader, Labi Siffre, Shirley Bassey, Mis-Teeq, and so much more!

More info>> https://rncm.link/so-oct

18/10/2022

2023 Applicants! The 28 October deadline to submit your Stage 1 audition is approaching.

If you're still preparing your submission, or if you're not quite sure where to start, don't fret, Student Ambassador James Joseph Connolly has put together this short video full of tips and advice on everything you need to know about creating your audition recording.

Still have questions about the application process? Why not grab a brew and join our Admissions Team at one of their twice weekly Zoom drop-ins and chat things through with a friendly face.

Tap here for more info >> rncm.link/yafb

18/10/2022

Anneleen Lenaerts, Principal Harpist with the Vienna Philharmonic, has joined our School of Strings as International Visiting Tutor in Harp.

RNCM students work with International Visiting Tutors across a range of instruments each year, learning from their incredible creativity and expertise through masterclasses and workshops.

If you’ve applied to join us in 2023, Anneleen is one of many renowned artists who could be inspiring the next stage of your musical journey.

Visit rncm.ac.uk/news for more.