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Sparks events

Events for ages 4-12Events for teenagersEvents for schoolsGamelan workshops
Children playing guitars at a Sparks Family Create event
Whether you are introducing children to music for the first time, or looking for inspiring ways to delve deeper, RCM Sparks has a programme of events just for you. We are delighted to share the unforgettable thrill of live performances, workshops and courses with schools, families and young people here at the Royal College of Music and in the local community.

Booking Sparks events

You can book for Sparks events over the phone or in person at the Royal College of Music Box Office.

Please note that some event places are for children on their own, while others require an adult attendee. More information is provided in the listing for each event.

We offer free places to eligible families, subject to availability.

Events in the summer holidays (ages 4-18)

Join us during the summer holidays for a range of exciting courses, workshops and family-friendly events.

We do not have anything to show at the moment. Check back regularly for the latest news about our events, or you can subscribe to our mailing list.

Events for families & children (ages 4-12)

Our Family Create, Ignite and Explorers programmes bring music to life in unforgettable ways, with practical opportunities to participate and insightful connections with wider festivals and performances.

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Sparks at Recorder Festival: Recorders Rock!

01 March 2020, 11:00am
Amaryllis Fleming Concert Hall

Ages 6–12

Calling all young recorder players! Join us for a unique opportunity to play as a mass ensemble accompanied by a professional live band.

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Sparks at Keyboard Festival: Family Create

22 March 2020, 11:00am
Recital Hall

Ages 4+

Encounter an outsized floor keyboard, virtuoso live performances, top of the range Steinway grand pianos, electronic keyboards, arts and crafts, storytelling and heritage objects from the RCM Museum. 

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Sparks Spring into Song! Ignite

08 April 2020, 10:30am
Inner Parry Room

Ages 6–9

Join Katie Teage as she sows the seeds for a lifetime love of singing in this dynamic and fun morning of springthemed songs, arts and crafts and storytelling.

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Sparks Spring into Song! Explorers

15 April 2020, 10:30am
Concert Hall

Ages 10–12

Join Katie Teage as she sows the seeds for a lifetime love of singing in this dynamic and fun spring-themed choir-in-a-day.

More events for families and children

Events for teenagers (ages 13-18)

Our bi-annual Springboard Composition Courses allow teenagers to explore their creativity, supported by inspiring professionals and emerging Royal College of Music composers.

We do not have anything to show at the moment. Check back regularly for the latest news about our events, or you can subscribe to our mailing list.

Events for schools

We present one free lunchtime concert every term specially tailored for school children. Hosted by a professional presenter and accompanied by a free teacher resource pack, our lunchtime concerts for schools are a fantastic opportunity to introduce young people to the excitement of classical music and to the unrivaled experience of seeing it performed live.

We also run a number of other events and concerts for school groups throughout the year.

We do not have anything to show at the moment. Check back regularly for the latest news about our events, or you can subscribe to our mailing list.

Gamelan workshops

The gamelan is the traditional orchestra of Indonesia, and the Royal College of Music has one of the largest sets in Europe. Gamelan has established itself at the centre of music education in the UK and features in the GCSE music course.

RCM Sparks offers practical and creative gamelan workshops for all abilities. From school pupils (early years to sixth form) to businesses, community groups to groups of friends, sessions can be tailored for each group's requirements. A typical taster session lasts 90 minutes and includes a short introduction to the cultural context of gamelan and a chance to have a go at playing the instruments. By the end of the session you will be able to perform a short piece of traditional Javanese or Balinese music.

Find out more