Founded in 1973 through the merger of the Royal Manchester College of Music and Northern School of Music, the Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM) is continually recognised as one of the world’s most forward-thinking conservatoires.

Home to over 900 students from more than 60 countries, it is dedicated to providing an outstanding education that propels students into careers as inspiring and versatile musicians, fully-equipped for exciting futures both on and off stage.

Alongside the pioneering Bachelor of Music with Honours, the RNCM Undergraduate School includes the ground-breaking Bachelor of Music with Honours in Popular Music (the UK’s first four-year degree in this subject) and the Graduate Diploma of the RNCM (a specialised programme for busy performers and intelligent musical thinkers run in partnership with The University of Manchester).

Revalidated in 2021, these programmes offer flexibility to create bespoke packages that fully support future career aspirations. They also complement the RNCM Graduate School, which provides a stimulating environment for advanced studies in performance (including conducting), composition, musicology, music psychology, and music education.

Additionally, the College is home to Junior RNCM, a vibrant community of gifted young musicians aged eight to 18. Each Saturday during term time, they study with exceptional tutors, perform with like-minded people, learn transferrable skills for life, and create a solid platform for further study at a conservatoire or university.