The Royal College of Music Museum contains the earliest known guitar, the earliest stringed keyboard instrument and the most recognised portraits of Joseph Haydn and Farinelli. Learn about these and 56 other fascinating instruments specially chosen from the RCM’s designated collection of over 15,000 items.

Following a £3.6million investment from Heritage Lottery Fund, the Museum has undergone a complete redevelopment and opened to the public in October 2021.

Book now to explore the permanent collection and see the current temporary exhibition Musical Portraits in Bohemian London (1870-1930), with artworks and manuscripts from members of the lively social circle of famous artists and musicians who once lived in Kensington, such as Edward Burne-Jones, John Singer Sargent, Jan Paderewski and George Henschel.