Widen access

A young boy, wearing a white shirt, performing on a drum, smiling at the camera.
Widening access to music education is fundamental to our vision. Since our founding day, we have provided financial support and an inclusive environment for students from many backgrounds. Today, our student community now stretches beyond the UK to over 50 other countries, with even more represented through our network of illustrious alumni.

The RCM Junior Department widens access to the training needed to apply for full-time study for young people aged 8 to 18. For the wider public, RCM Sparks offers families, schools, and young people informal and engaging music education. Through our programme high-quality performances, as well as events, talks, and exhibitions, we invite everyone to explore and enjoy music, both online and in person.

Sparks of inspiration

Our inclusive RCM Sparks programme encourages people of all ages and backgrounds to make and learn about music. In 2016-17 RCM Sparks ignited creativity in more than 3,000 members of the community and trained over 180 RCM students to lead inspiring community workshops.

As well as our work with children, current and past RCM Sparks projects include:

  • Bespoke music training for primary and secondary school staff in areas identified as ‘cold spots’ for music education, giving the confidence needed to use live music making in the classroom
  • Workshops to enhance wellbeing in older adults through creative music making
  • Arts groups for young adults on the autistic spectrum

Junior Department bursaries

Every Saturday, 400 highly talented students up to the age of 18 attend the Royal College of Music Junior Department (RCMJD). Many travel for hours each weekend to receive one-to-one tuition with highly regarded teachers. For those who cannot afford the fees, there a number of bursaries are available.

Financial difficulties should not prevent any child from attending the RCM. Bursaries for children are an effective, means-tested way of enhancing access to the RCM and nurturing early potential.

Donate now

Help our students to inspire and educate our local communities.

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Get in touch

If you would like further information about the RCM’s learning and participation programmes, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Development

+44 (0)20 7591 4750

dae@rcm.ac.uk

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