Promote innovation

From masterclasses and endowed professorships, to groundbreaking research and investment in digital technology, our academic initiatives will provide invaluable learning experiences, inspiring the young artists trained at the RCM and the audiences they reach during their careers.

Enquiry and innovation forms the backbone of the learning experience for all our students, who craft their own courses of study according to their needs and aspirations. The digital revolution provides us with a world of new opportunities by putting us in touch with global audiences for our students, whilst the RCM's research environment enables undergraduates to work alongside leading professors in music education, performance researchers and with other scholars and scientists.

Our research changes lives

Research at the RCM covers a wide range of topics, past and present, to better inform our understanding of the world tomorrow. Our researchers are investigating the influence of European instruments contribution to modern music soundscapes, documenting the lives of migrating musicians displaced by the Second World War and their impact on British culture, and exploring musical care pathways in early years in England and Wales. 

Together with our partners, we are developing dynamic new ways of teaching and learning that have an impact far beyond the world of music. Our flagship interdisciplinary research centre, the Centre for Performance Science, has recently constructed a world leading Performance Laboratory, while continuing to develop research into every aspect of performance as well as the myriad of health and wellbeing benefits associated with music. 

With your support we will help musicians to fulfil their potential with greater confidence, knowledge and awareness of their own health, as well as continuing to demonstrate the important impact music has on the wider world.

Visiting artists

The RCM regularly invites renowned musicians from all over the world to share their expertise and insight with our students. Masterclasses are a vital part of our students’ professional and personal development, and our orchestral musicians enjoy expert leadership from some of the most respected conductors in the field. Your support can ensure that our masterclass programme continues to grow.

Digital futures

Technology facilitates collaboration, innovation and accessibility and enhances the performance experience for audiences and performers alike. By harnessing the power of 21st century technology we will secure our position as a truly global conservatoire and a world-leader in innovative use of digital technologies. Investment in our digital future will enable our students to reach wider audiences through new digital platforms and collaborate with leading musicians and educators around the globe.

Access to our collections

Our internationally significant collection of musical instruments, works of art and manuscripts is the most substantial research resource relating to the history of music held by any UK conservatoire. A digitisation project will allow audiences to discover our collections online and offer online teaching resources.