Royal Northern College of Music Prospectus by Rhinegold

Undergraduate Prospectus 2013-14

Contents

Welcome

Your future Manchester â&#x20AC;&#x201C; musical city Student life Living here An international community Performance Chamber Music Jazz Historical Performance

8 10 14 16 18 20 23 24 25

RNCM courses

Composition Keyboard Studies Strings Vocal Studies Wind, Brass and Percussion

36 40 46 52 58

The Graduate School Library Student support Fees and financial support How to apply Key dates and contacts How to find the RNCM

65 66 67 68 71 76 77

Bachelor of Music BMus(Hons) GRNCM/MusB(Hons) Bachelor of Arts BA(Hons) Popular Music Performance

Find out more at www.rncm.ac.uk

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5 Making a decision about where to train as a professional musician is one of the most important of your career. You will want to be assured that you will receive outstanding tuition and performance opportunities within a supportive and nurturing environment.

Welcome to the RNCM

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Hansjörg Schellenberger are International Chairs at the College, adding to our body of highly respected teachers and performers. We have strong links and exchange agreements with leading international conservatoires, giving you opportunities to make cultural and professional connections throughout your course that will support you in developing your future career. 2013 will be a milestone year for the RNCM as we celebrate our 40th Anniversary. Special guest performers and alumni will join current students and staff for a series of fundraising concerts and memorable performances both at the College, across Manchester and beyond.

Conservatoire and leading performance venue The RNCM’s unique position as both a conservatoire and the UK’s fifth busiest performance venue means that you will benefit from unparalleled opportunities to perform regularly to public audiences and work alongside professional musicians and visiting artists. You will also enjoy a broad range of musical styles and genres. In the past year we have staged over 400 events and attracted leading artists including the composer Steve Reich, pianist András Schiff, baritone Thomas Hampson, the Endellion Quartet, and percussionist Dame Evelyn Glennie.

The RNCM community sets it apart from other conservatoires; there is a warm and friendly atmosphere and everyone helps and supports each other in their studies. This community feel encourages us to collaborate and find more creative ways to experiment and evolve our music. Abel Selaocoe, 2nd year cellist, BMus, ABRSM scholar

Find out more at www.rncm.ac.uk

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The RNCM is a forward-thinking, internationally-acclaimed conservatoire, located in the heart of Manchester, one of the UK’s most culturally vibrant cities. Our staff are renowned for their expertise and we have an excellent reputation for attracting some of the world’s most distinguished teachers, performers, conductors, composers and scholars. Such outstanding artists as violinists Gábor Takács-Nagy and Yair Kless, soprano Joan Rodgers CBE, composer H K Gruber, trumpeter Håkan Hardenberger, pianist Stephen Hough, violist Nobuko Imai, saxophonist Vincent David, conductor Sir Mark Elder CBE, cellist Ralph Kirshbaum, and oboist

Enabling you to fulfil your potential Our core purpose is to enable talented young people, from across the world, to fulfil their potential as musicians. Through dedicated coaching, a thorough academic grounding, and extensive performance experience, our students thrive and succeed. At the RNCM your individual needs lie at the heart of the training and experience you will receive. We take your future seriously and we support you in fulfilling your personal aspirations.

First-hand experience of the music profession We promote the highest standards of technical and musical achievement and academic enquiry at the RNCM, and put great emphasis on encouraging entrepreneurial skills and creativity. Our courses are designed to give you first-hand experience of the music profession and we work hard to ensure our teaching reflects the professional reality of being a musician. To achieve this, your Principal Study and Academic Studies are complemented by a range of options to develop your professional skills, such as arts administration, presentation skills,

and chamber music coaching. Many of our students are involved in professional musicmaking while studying, and they also benefit from Professional Experience Schemes with the BBC Philharmonic, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic and HallĂŠ orchestras, Manchester Camerata, Opera North and the Black Dyke Band. These schemes offer vital work experience to around 60 students each year.

Partnerships Our partnerships are regional, national and international. Links with education partners include our BA(Hons) in Popular Music Performance*, which we run jointly with Access to Music (Armstrong Learning), teacher training with Manchester Metropolitan University, our GRNCM/ MusB(Hons) course with The University of Manchester, and exciting partnerships with ABRSM, the School of Sound Recording, Opera North and One Education Music (OEM). Our partners in the wider community provide opportunities for outreach projects, while our pioneering Music

for Health training programme brings musicians and healthcare practitioners closer together, offering further openings for future employment. Internationally, the RNCM is the sole UK partner institution of the European Chamber Music Academy, and enjoys links with many leading institutions across the world, providing you with opportunities to study abroad, enrich your learning experience, and make international contacts.

*subject to validation

Find out more at www.rncm.ac.uk

Visiting us In the pages that follow, we explain why we feel the RNCM is a special place for training and educating young musicians. But to truly experience the atmosphere and creative energy of studying and performing here, we recommend that you see for yourself, so donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t hesitate to come to an Open Day, or request an Advice Audition. Whatever your chosen career path, our commitment is to inspire, train and support you in achieving your ambitions, and to provide you with a rich and fulfilling student experience.

8 Your future As a student at the RNCM you are encouraged from the outset to look beyond your studies to your future career, and to take full advantage of the many exciting opportunities available to you in the region, nationally and internationally.

You will be part of a community of outstanding musicians with high aspirations, and we will do all we can to support you in fulfilling your personal ambitions and potential. Your degree is designed to help you to develop the confidence, drive, communication and entrepreneurial skills needed to establish and maintain a successful career in a competitive market place. It will also offer you wide-ranging opportunities for work placements; experiences that will be very important as you build your CV. Professional experience and skills The need to plan your career, develop professional experience and skills, and build professional networks while still a student are critical to your future success. At the RNCM we ensure that you are able to do this so that you are fully equipped for the kind of freelance portfolio career you might expect as a musician. As part of your degree, you will have the following opportunities:

Professional Experience Schemes You will be able to audition for a place on one of the College’s highly regarded Professional Experience Schemes with the BBC Philharmonic, Hallé, the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, Manchester Camerata, Opera North, and Black Dyke Band, among others. Every year we place over 60 of our students on these schemes, and many go on to forge successful careers in the profession as a result of the skills, experience and connections they gain. Work Experience Placements Every BMus(Hons) student will undertake at least one placement during their studies. As well as providing placements within our Professional Experience Schemes, we offer a very large range of other placement opportunities in the fields of music education, music administration/management, concert management, music marketing, and agency work. You apply and interview for these placements as if you were applying for a job in the music industry, enabling you to develop your application and interview skills. The contacts you make and the networks you will develop through these activities will be invaluable to you as you build your future career.

RNCM Outreach Working in the wider community is an integral part of a musician’s career, whether as a freelance musician, or as part of an orchestra or opera company. The RNCM Outreach Team has established strong partnerships with schools, colleges and community groups throughout the region and initiates projects to provide you with the experience and necessary skills to work in the community. With the team’s support, you can be involved from the conception of an idea for a project through to the planning and delivery. Recent projects organised and delivered by RNCM students have focused on composition and song-writing for GCSE students, performance projects for primary school children, specialist days to enhance music provision in secondary schools in genres such as jazz and world music, visit days, and a summer school. The Outreach Team also run RNCM Youth Perform, a weekly, non-audition musical theatre group for local children. The group stages an annual musical at the College, with a team of RNCM students as Assistant Directors.

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Since graduating from the RNCM in 2011, I have made my professional opera debut with English National Opera in the role of Cherubino in their new production of The Marriage of Figaro. Cherubino was a role that I first performed at the RNCM and I am so grateful to have had that performance opportunity at such an early stage in my development as it provided an excellent foundation for me to build upon. I am very proud to say that I studied at the RNCM.

Kathryn Rudge, mezzo-soprano, 2011, The Times New Face of Classical Music 2012. Kathryn made her operatic début with English National Opera in the company’s Young Singer programme and has consequently secured roles with Opera North and Glyndeborne Touring Opera Entrepreneurial Skills To be successful in the music profession, it is important to have the entrepreneurial skills with which to develop, establish and sustain an active career. As a student at the RNCM you will be challenged continually to build your entrepreneurial skills, and to establish and promote your individual identity as a musician. Partners and Mentors Over the years the RNCM has developed important professional partnership links, which will provide you with valuable access to career advice and guidance, as well as crucial opportunities to network and foster contacts to enhance your employability when you graduate. You will have the opportunity to participate with our partners in the wider community through observation and participation with all North West Music Services and organisations such as Brighter Sound, the Seashell Trust, Music Unlimited, Artis and Live Music Now. A full list of our partners can be found on the website www.rncm.ac.uk/partners.

External engagements The Professional Engagements Team co-ordinates over 350 external professional engagements each year for students with music clubs and societies across the North West and further afield, as well as with companies and event organisers. This service gives students the opportunity to perform publicly throughout their degree, gaining invaluable experience and also often earning some additional income. RNCM musicians have given lunchtime recitals at the prestigious Pavilion Arts Centre in Buxton, and performed in regular concerts at Manchester Cathedral; the Leos Quartet performed at functions hosted by Manchester City football club, and at the aftershow party for the Royal Variety Performance; and brass quintet Northern Brass played at Manchester’s Palace Theatre for the Press Night of the stageshow Dirty Dancing.

Find out more at www.rncm.ac.uk

Graduate success An exciting range of career choices are open to you when you graduate from the RNCM, as demonstrated by the success of our alumni. Former students continue to excel as performers and conductors on concert platforms and in major opera houses around the world; as composers working with world-class orchestras and ensembles and for film and television; as music tutors, inspiring the next generation of young people in schools, music services and conservatoires; as freelance animateurs leading community outreach projects; as broadcasters holding high-profile positions; as session musicians touring with well-known pop and rock bands; and as leaders within the wider arts and creative industries and education sector. For further information visit www.rncm.ac.uk/alumni

Manchester a city with a passion for music

Manchester is without doubt one of the most energetic and cosmopolitan cities in the UK, and has a well-deserved reputation as an educational, media, and cultural capital within Europe. Manchester’s history is strongly linked with music and culture; it is here that Britain’s longest established permanent professional symphony orchestra was formed, and where the country’s first public library was established in 1653. The city enjoys a modern day status as a hotbed for classical and contemporary music.

Manchester’s musical history began in earnest when the Hallé Orchestra was formed. Charles Hallé arrived in Manchester in 1858, and was asked to assemble an orchestra for the Art Treasures of Great Britain exhibition. After the exhibition he decided to keep the musicians together, and so began the Hallé Orchestra. In 1893 Charles Hallé founded the Royal Manchester College of Music, where he was Principal and Professor of Pianoforte.

Find out more at www.visitmanchester.com

During the 1950s the Royal Manchester College of Music became home to Harrison Birtwistle, Peter Maxwell Davies, Alexander Goehr and John Ogdon. They were known as the New Manchester Group; avant-garde musicians, who were to go on to leave their mark on the world of classical music. Peter Maxwell Davies and Harrison Birtwistle continue to enjoy close links with the College and still visit to work with student composers and RNCM ensembles.

In 1973 the Royal Manchester College of Music merged with the Northern School of Music, and so the Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM) was born. From the very beginning, the College attracted a wealth of visiting musicians to showcase their works. Northern Dance School, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra (formerly the BBC Northern Symphony Orchestra), the Nash Ensemble, and London Sinfonietta were the first in a long line of world-renowned ensembles to bring their work to the RNCM. The opening of the RNCM coincided with a larger Manchester renaissance, with the beginning of a new chapter for the Hallé under a new director; new theatres in Manchester, which were attracting fresh and talented actors and musicians, and Chetham’s becoming established as a specialist music school. Manchester: a city of culture Manchester is home to three professional orchestras: the Hallé, BBC Philharmonic, and Manchester Camerata, which is resident at the College. There is a wealth of live classical music events across the city

at venues such as The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester’s stunning stateof-the-art international concert venue, and, of course, at the RNCM’s own Concert Hall, Theatre, and Carole Nash Recital Room. Manchester is renowned the world over as a breeding ground for musical innovation and talent. Its track record of producing illustrious contemporary musical talent spans many decades and includes 10cc, The Bee Gees, Buzzcocks, Joy Division, New Order, The Smiths, The Fall, The Stone Roses, Happy Mondays, Oasis, and Autechre. Doves, Elbow and Delphic have now taken over the mantle of Manchester’s popular music heroes. There are plenty of opportunities to see Manchester’s finest performers, alongside artists from across the world, in the city’s many live music venues - from the imposing Manchester Evening News Arena which holds 21,000, to more intimate venues scattered across the city. There are also many music festivals that take place throughout the year, such as Manchester International Festival - a biennial,

artist-led, commissioning festival presenting new works from across the spectrum of performing and visual arts and popular culture; FutureEverything - a global festival of art, music and ideas; and Proms in the Park. The city has more than its fair share of art galleries and museums, all housing collections of international importance. You can see classic masterpieces at Manchester Art Gallery, The Whitworth Art Gallery and The Lowry, or modern art at the Cornerhouse, Cube, the Chinese Arts Centre, and the many independent galleries across the city. The Manchester Museum and the Museum of Science and Industry have an ever-changing timetable of exhibitions, and the imposing architecture of the Imperial War Museum North hosts changing exhibitions around how war shapes lives. Weekends can be spent at one of the city’s hundreds of bars, cafes and restaurants, which cater for every taste in décor, ambience, and food. Or for some breathtaking landscapes you can escape to the nearby Peak District or a little further afield to the Lake District.

Caroline Pether, 4th year violinist, BMus, member of the Zelkova Quartet

No mention of Manchester would be complete without reference to its renowned sporting prowess. As well as its two outstanding premiership football teams, Manchester United and Manchester City, the city has world-class cycling at Manchester Velodrome, premiership rugby in Sale, national and international cricket at Old Trafford, and the international swimming venue Manchester Aquatics Centre. There is a myriad of sporting associations across the city, from archery to volleyball, enabling you to take part in your sport of choice.

Manchester’s latest addition to the skyline – MediaCityUK – has brought an exciting buzz to the city. MediaCityUK’s vision is to become a leading international hub for the creative and digital industries. It is the new home for the BBC, ITV, the BBC Philharmonic, and many independent TV and film production companies, and is already considered the most technically-advanced television studio complex in Europe. Whatever you’re looking for, Manchester has it. It’s a great place to live as a musician and a student, and you would be hard pressed to tire of its spirit, attitude and creativity.

Find out more at www.visitmanchester.com

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Manchester is a great place to live and study because it is more affordable than London, but still has lots of things going on - not just concerts, but shows, plays, comedy, shops and a huge variety of bars and restaurants. It’s just as vibrant as London but everything is happening within a smaller area so it’s easier to soak everything up!

14 Student life With a total student population of around 95,000 studying across its three major universities, Manchester is renowned for its exciting and diverse student scene.

RNCM students enjoy an endless choice of cultural and social activities, either within the calendar of events organised by the College’s Students’ Union, or across the city. Manchester is alive with opportunities to socialise and have fun, whether that means seeing the latest film at one of the city’s multiplexes or independent cinemas, going to live gigs, classical concerts or comedy nights, visiting art galleries or the theatre, shopping or eating out. In addition to the numerous music venues in and around Manchester, you will be able to enjoy performances in our own venues, with over 400 events hosted at the RNCM each year, including visiting artists, festivals and student performances. As an RNCM student you will have the added benefit of free or heavily discounted tickets for most of these events. If you enjoy the outdoors Manchester makes the ideal base for exploring the North of England. For days out you can head for the stunning countryside of the Lake District, Lancashire and the Peak District. Financially, it is much easier to manage your budget as a student in Manchester than in most other

cities in the UK. Manchester is among the most cost-effective cities to live as a student. If you need to raise extra funds during your studies, there are opportunities for part-time work both within the College and at other local venues, and our Professional Engagements Team co-ordinate paid performance work for students. You will make lasting friendships during your time at the College, and these can continue after graduation and lead to long-term collaborations in the professional world. Chamber ensembles such as the Navarra Quartet, the Heath Quartet, the Rhodes Piano Trio, and the folk duo Twelfth Day were formed at the RNCM, and are now enjoying successful international careers in the music profession. Students’ Union Throughout your time at the RNCM you will be represented and supported by the Students’ Union. The Union is both the student community, to which everyone belongs, and a representative body which liaises between students and staff. The Union team listens to the issues that matter to you and ensures that your views are taken forward.

Dee Dee Roberts, President of the RNCM Students’ Union 2011/12

Find out more at www.rncm.ac.uk

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The RNCM Students’ Union is here to represent you and to provide a voice for the student body. We organise regular social events to accommodate the diverse nature of our student body, and all members of the SU team are here for you to discuss any matter, big or small, in any aspect of your College experience. We want to help you make the most of your time here.

16 Living here

As an RNCM student you can enjoy modern accommodation in the Sir Charles Groves Hall of Residence located next door to the College. The Sir Charles Groves Hall of Residence, which is owned and managed by Liberty Living, is purpose-built with all modern amenities, and offers a truly cost effective place to live as you will be able to walk to lectures or rehearsals in just a few minutes. RNCM students occupy the majority of the 612 rooms in the Hall, giving an even greater opportunity to be part of a safe student community and make friends as soon as you arrive. You will have your own en-suite room in a shared flat for four, sharing a fully-equipped lounge/ kitchen. As a purpose-built residence, the rooms allocated to RNCM students allow you to practice in your room between the hours of 9am and 9pm. Pianists can even arrange to have a loan piano in their room.

There is always someone to turn to in the Hall, as the welfare and support of RNCM student residents is overseen by two senior student residents and a member of staff. The Hall is spacious and modern and includes: • 24-hour security, CCTV and swipe card access • En-suite bathroom, internet access and telephone in every room • Communal areas including a student common room with widescreen TV and pool table • A courtyard garden • Guest flats for visiting relatives and friends • A launderette exclusively for the use of RNCM students You can opt for a completely self-catering package, or opt for a weekday catering package to buy meals at food outlets in the main College building. Further information can be found at www.libertyliving.co.uk

Private accommodation You may prefer to rent a flat or share a house in private accommodation. RNCM students can benefit from our association with Manchester Student Homes, which is an agency owned and managed by the City’s universities. The main advantage of using this agency is that all landlords have to be accredited and adhere to an agreed ‘Code of Standards’, ensuring you are provided with quality accommodation and the best possible service. For further information visit www.manchesterstudenthomes.com

Michael Clark, 2nd year percussionist, BMus

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If you are like me and like to practise early in the morning, staying in the Hall means you don’t have to allow for travelling time as you are right next door! You are within walking distance of the city centre and many local attractions such as parks, museums, concert venues and supermarkets too. It is also in a great location and you feel safe when walking home at night.

18 An international community If you choose to come to the UK to study at the RNCM, you can be assured of receiving a warm welcome.

We will make sure you experience exciting new opportunities and receive all the support you might need to ensure that your time here is enjoyable and fulfilling. There are more than 700 students studying at the RNCM, of which more than 200 are international students, representing more than fifty different countries. Many of our tutors are also drawn from across the world and have international performing careers, creating a culturally diverse and stimulating environment.

Support services and welcome activities We have a great deal of experience in welcoming international students. You will be well-supported even before you arrive in the UK, with comprehensive advice and guidance included in our welcome packs and pre-departure information. When you arrive, our priority is to make you feel at home as quickly as possible, and to help you to settle into your new life at the College in the culturally vibrant city of Manchester. You will be invited to participate in welcome activities where you will meet current students and staff, and where you will receive plenty of useful information about immigration regulations, and practical topics such as registering with a doctor and opening a bank account. You will have the opportunity to join in celebrations and activities at International Induction, which takes place just before the main College induction week, and includes special events for international students. The whole week is designed to help you make new friends and settle into student life here - it’s also a lot of fun!

On-site Hall of Residence You will have the option of living in the College’s on-site Hall of Residence, just two minutes’ walk from the College building, where many RNCM international students choose to live. You will find that living in Halls is very convenient, as you will be able to practice in your own room as well as in the College, and being so close means you will not need to be concerned about getting home late. See pages 16-17 for more information. People to turn to The RNCM will support you in a number of ways. We have a dedicated International Office, and our active Students’ Union organises social activities and events throughout the year, and also represents your views through an elected International Student Representative. We also have an English Language Tutor to help you throughout your studies at the College. If your English is marginally below the entry level, you can participate in our intensive pre-sessional English programme which usually begins in July. For more information see page 75.

Xinghua Xu, 1st year pianist from China

Manchester – an international city Manchester is located in the North of England, about 200 miles (322 km) north of London - only two hours away on the train. The city is a hub for international travel; Manchester International Airport provides direct flights from Manchester to around 200 destinations worldwide, including all major European cities. With a diverse range of cultures, a growing economy, and excellent links to the rest of the world, the City is constantly re-inventing itself, and maintains its reputation as an exciting and cosmopolitan place for students to live and study.

As home to many faiths, there are places of worship for all religions throughout the city. Manchester is renowned as a thriving centre for live music, culture and the arts. Find out more about the many music venues, theatres, galleries and events on pages 11–13, or visit www.visitmanchester.com. It’s easy to explore the city centre by foot and there are also excellent public transport links. Manchester is also within easy reach of many well-known tourist areas of great natural beauty.

Across the City, you will find strong cultural communities, living side by side. Manchester’s Chinatown is one of the largest in the world, while Rusholme, known as the Curry Mile for its award-winning restaurants, is the place to enjoy Indian, Pakistani, Sri Lankan and Bangladeshi traditions. You will also find influences of Italy, Thailand, Japan and Spain in the many restaurants and social settings.

Find out more at www.rncm.ac.uk/international

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I chose to study in the UK as it is a multicultural country and also because of the excellent international reputation of the RNCM. When I first arrived in the UK the RNCM provided all of the essential information I needed and the staff were extremely welcoming and helpful. This support helped me to settle in really quickly.

The International Society The RNCM has valuable links with the International Society of Manchester which will enhance your social and cultural experiences of living in the city and beyond with its full and varied programme of activities. The International Society is committed to promoting international friendship and celebrating cultural diversity in the city and has over 3,000 members. It offers visits to places of great natural beauty and historical interest around the UK every weekend throughout the year. For more information visit www.internationalsociety.org.uk How to apply We accept applications from international students throughout the year. However, we would recommend that you submit your application by 1 October 2012 for entry in September 2013. For further information see How to Apply on pages 74–75.

20 Performance opportunities

Performance sits at the heart of the RNCM experience - no other UK-based conservatoire offers such a range of opportunities to its students, and the programme on offer is world-class. The RNCM is renowned for the quality of performing opportunities for students, and for the scale of its extensive diary of music, dance and theatre events. Our trailblazing artistic programme, which complements the academic curriculum and research activities, will give you access to world-class music-making across a wide range of genres. You will be encouraged to participate in as many of these opportunities as possible to enhance

your learning experience, and to develop your skills and knowledge to become a music leader of the future. You will have the opportunity to participate in a broad range of performance activities: orchestral and ensemble projects, opera, chamber music and smallerscale solo/duo performances. You will be inspired by and learn from some of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading musicians through a series of public

masterclasses, lectures, festivals and specialist instrument days. Performance venues As a leading performance venue the RNCM has outstanding on-site facilities, which are unparalleled among conservatoires: a 446-seat Concert Hall, a 672-seat Theatre, a 120-seat Recital Room, a 150-seat Studio Theatre and a state-of-the art recording studio, all of which are professionally-staffed.

• Working with eminent visiting composers such as Judith Weir, Sir Harrison Birtwistle, Magnus Lindberg and Steve Reich with the New Ensemble, both in Manchester and at other venues across the UK

• Performing with the Symphony Orchestra, Chamber Orchestra, Concert Orchestra or String Orchestra in the RNCM Concert Hall, in Manchester’s Bridgewater Hall, or at venues and festivals across the UK and internationally

• Performing with the RNCM Big Band, recognised as one of the UK’s outstanding jazz orchestras, alongside an impressive list of guest artists, such as vocalists Norma Winstone and Clare Teal, composer Colin Towns, pianist Alex Wilson, trumpeter Guy Barker, and saxophonists Chris Potter and Bob Mintzer

• Working with high-profile visiting conductors such as Sir Mark Elder CBE, Yan-Pascal Tortelier, Vassily Sinaisky, Mark Shanahan, and Jac van Steen

• Giving one of many première performances with the internationally-acclaimed RNCM Wind Orchestra, and recording commercially with them

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• Playing with the highly-regarded RNCM Brass Band • Collaborating with professional artists and ensembles such as Julian Argüelles, Jim Moray, Jacqui Dankworth, Tim Garland, Ólafur Arnalds, the London Sinfonietta, and Astillero Tango on unique and exciting projects • Taking part in one-off large-scale projects designed for unusual locations, including events in recent years at the Imperial War Museum North, Manchester’s Whitworth Art Gallery, Manchester Piccadilly railway station, and Victoria Baths • Touring abroad with one of a number of ensembles, visiting places such as Italy, China and the USA

The RNCM is such a great place for performing because from your very first year you are able to be part of the RNCM orchestras, ensembles and opera productions. As a singer I have appeared as a chorus member in many College operas, and I also took part in a project at Tatton Park which consisted of three days of public concerts. All of these opportunities have helped me gain more confidence as a performer. Gabriella Cassidy, 4th year singer, BMus

Find out more at www.rncm.ac.uk

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Orchestras and ensembles You can expect to enjoy a range of performance opportunities from day one. Projects range from short, intense experiences focusing on individual works, to in-depth explorations of repertoire with guest conductors and directors. Performance opportunities enjoyed by our students have included:

RNCM Opera Whether you are a singer or an instrumentalist, there are many opportunities for you to take part in our wide-ranging opera programme. We have an enviable reputation and strong tradition of success in this field, attracting national reviews and delivering award-winning productions. Recent RNCM operas have included Bizet’s Carmen, Mozart’s La Clemenza di Tito, Barber’s Vanessa, Britten’s Albert Herring, and semi-staged productions of Handel’s Belshazzar and Bernstein’s Candide, as well as a full programme of staged public opera scenes.

Solo and duo public performance As well as an internal series of performance platforms, students present solo or duo programmes to a public audience in our lunchtime concerts. The Spotlight series offers students the chance to propose programmes that complement the evening concert programme, and each year 90 such projects covering a wide range of musical genres are presented as free Spotlight events.

Festivals The RNCM is renowned for its festivals and instrument days, which range from celebrations of the work of a particular composer, to entire weekends devoted to a specific instrument. You can enhance your own study experience through these events as a performer, an audience member, or by attending masterclasses given by world-class musicians. Annual events include the Chamber Music Festival, the Wind Weekend, the Festival of Brass, the Keyboard Weekend and the Day of Song, all of which attract high-profile guest artists and audiences from far and wide.

23 Chamber Music At the RNCM you will benefit from a thriving programme of chamber music coaching, delivered within the RNCM International Chamber Music Studio, led by the cellist of the Talich Quartet, Petr Prause, and pianist Jeremy Young. Chamber music is at the heart of everything we do at the College, and you will be given valuable opportunities to develop your skills and music-making through masterclasses, coaching and performance. The RNCM is the only UK conservatoire to have a dedicated team of chamber music staff delivering regular and structured tuition throughout your course. Tutors include former and current members of the Lindsay, Chilingirian, Talich, Takács and Skampa String Quartets, the Gould and Manchester Piano Trios, Ensemble 360, Zephyr Winds and the Apollo Saxophone Quartet. The Studio has close links with chamber music organisations all over the world, leading to exchange visits with groups from France, Austria, Singapore, Finland, Italy and Australia. The RNCM is the only UK member of the European Chamber Music Academy, and each year a number of the best young ensembles and tutors from all over Europe visit the College for a week of concerts and lessons with distinguished artists and teachers.

You will experience a range of exciting performance opportunities including competitions and prizes, and masterclasses and lectures with world-renowned visiting artists. The annual Chamber Music Festival, the largest of its kind in Europe, attracts a large and enthusiastic audience. Recent festivals have featured the Borodin and Ysaÿe String Quartets, the Amelia Piano Trio, Rachael Podger, David Owen Norris, and Jane Manning, among many others. Recent masterclasses have been given by artists such as Hatto Beyerle, Miguel da Silva, Christoph Richter, Marco van Pagee, Susan Tomes, Hui-Ying Liu-Tawaststjerna, Hansjörg Schellenberger, Tim Reynish and Reiner Wehle. Many of our graduates are members of highly successful chamber groups including the Tokyo Quartet, Fibonacci, Absolution Saxophone Quartet, the Heath, Elias and Navarra String Quartets, Scherzo Brass, and the Rhodes Piano Trio.

Staff International Chair in Chamber Music Gábor Takács-Nagy Artistic Director of International Chamber Music Studio Petr Prause Head of International Chamber Music Studio Jeremy Young LRAM, ARAM Ensembles in Residence Talich String Quartet Gould Piano Trio Junior Fellows Finzi String Quartet Tutors in Chamber Music James Boyd Robert Buckland GRNCM, PPRNCM, FRNCM Levon Chilingirian ARCM, FRCM, HonPhD Peter Cropper FRNCM, FRAM Lynne Dawson MIL Emma Ferrand DipRAM, ARAM, LRAM, FRNCM Pavel Fischer Benjamin Frith BA, ARCM Matthew Hunt Paul Janes MusB, GRNCM, PPRNCM Sally Ann MacLeod PPRNCM Melinda Maxwell BA, ARCM, LTCL, HonARAM Professor John Miller MA, FGSM, FRNCM Craig Ogden BA(Mus), PGDipRNCM, PPRNCM, FRNCM Timothy Reynish

Find out more at www.rncm.ac.uk

Thomas Schulze

24 Jazz

The RNCM provides you with many opportunities to expand your experience and knowledge of jazz styles and improvisation.

The College offers specialist jazzbased instrumental tuition in jazz and Latin percussion, saxophone, trombone, trumpet, piano, flute and double bass. You will also be offered options to pursue a deeper understanding of jazz techniques and gain first-hand experience of the demands of the music industry through jazz electives within your Academic Studies and Professional Skills activities. Tuition is delivered by a team of musicians who are prolific on the professional jazz scene and wellrespected as music educators. Our students benefit from classes with world-renowned visiting artists such as Bob Mintzer, Chris Potter, Victor Mendoza, Kenny Wheeler, and Tim Garland, the College’s Research Fellow in New Music.

Recent performance opportunities include unique and exciting collaborative projects such as Tim Garland’s ongoing Ignite project, featuring to date RNCM saxophone, percussion and string students, and Guy Barker’s Spirit of Django event for big band, chamber orchestra and soloists including Martin Taylor. You may also take part in a series of masterclasses with high-profile international artists such as Evan Parker and Jerry Bergonzi, and regular gigs with the Jazz Collective and the RNCM Big Band. The Big Band has recently performed alongside guests including John Taylor, Gwilym Simcock, Alex Wilson, Mike Walker, Nikki Iles, Colin Towns and Clare Teal. Student success has been achieved by the Beats & Pieces Big Band, comprising many RNCM students and alumni, who were named as winners of the European Young Artists Jazz Festival 2011.

Staff Co-ordinator of Jazz Studies, Tutor in Jazz Saxophone and Improvisation Mike Hall BSc, PGDipRNCM Research Fellow in New Music Tim Garland Tutor in Percussion David Hassell HonARAM Tutor in Double Bass Steve Berry Tutor in Jazz Piano Eileen Guppy MA, GCLCM, ARCM, LRAM, LGSM Tutor in Jazz Trumpet Steve Waterman GTCL, HonARAM International Tutor in Jazz Trombone Jiggs Whigham Tutor in Jazz Saxophone Julian Argüelles Tutor in Jazz Flute Rowland Sutherland Tutor in Jazz Improvisation Carl Raven BMus, PPRNCM

25 Historical Performance

At the RNCM you will be given the chance to develop your skills on both modern and historical instruments, and enhance your knowledge of early performing styles and techniques. The Collegeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s team of specialist tutors cover the study of repertoire and techniques from the Renaissance to the early Romantic Period through a programme of chamber music coaching for classical string quartets, baroque ensembles and classical wind ensembles. Students also benefit from masterclasses, concerts and tuition from world-renowned artists such as Mahan Esfahani, Emma Kirkby, Orlando Consort, Dufay Collective, Joglaresa, I Fagiolini and Charivari AgrĂŠable, and small-scale early music performances with the RNCM Baroque Orchestra.

The College has an extensive collection of instruments available for student loan, including a complete baroque string orchestra, a full range of keyboard instruments including harpsichord, chamber organ and fortepiano, and baroque and classical woodwind and brass instruments. The College is also home to the RNCM Collection of Historical Musical Instruments, which comprises in excess of 300 instruments.

Staff Tutor in Baroque and Classical Violin Dr Pauline Nobes MusM(Perf), PGDipRNCM, MusB, GRNCM, PhD, ARCM Tutor in Baroque Viola Annette Isserlis Tutor in Baroque Cello Susan Sheppard ARAM Tutor in Baroque and Classical Oboe Anthony Robson LRAM, ARCM Tutor in Baroque Bassoon Peter Wesley BA, ARCM, DipRCM(Perf) Tutor in Natural Horn Rebecca Goldberg GMusRNCM, PPRNCM, PGDipRNCM Tutor in Sackbutt and Classical Trombone Susan Addison ARCM Tutor in Vocal Style Philippa Hyde DipRAM See school pages for additional Historical Performance staff.

Find out more at www.rncm.ac.uk

RNCM Schools and Courses RNCM programme information Bachelor of Music BMus(Hons) Bachelor of Music BMus(Hons) 3-year intensive pathway GRNCM/MusB(Hons) Bachelor of Arts BA(Hons) Popular Music Performance

28 29 32 34

Composition Keyboard Studies Strings Vocal Studies Wind, Brass and Percussion

36 40 46 52 58

Find out more at www.rncm.ac.uk

28 Bachelor of Music (Hons)

Four years, full-time CUKAS Code: 300F Application deadline: 1 October 2012

The BMus(Hons) course at the RNCM will give you the opportunity to develop and fulfil your potential as a performer or composer, and will equip you with the employability skills and experience needed to excel in your future career as a musician. On these pages we outline the structure of the degree. As you read through you will learn how the three key areas of study interrelate and together offer a unique learning experience. This combines

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intensive training in performance or composition with academic rigour, and first-hand knowledge of the profession, which will provide you with thorough preparation for a successful career as a rounded musician. The BMus(Hons) comprises 480 credits, normally delivered over four years. The majority of your programme is focused on developing your skills in your Principal Study, applying them to professional skills and contextualising academic studies.

The RNCM has given me the opportunity to play in the Chamber Music Festival, contemporary music performances, and external engagements such as Britten-Pears Orchestra and a project with Tim Garland, the world-renowned saxophonist. My musical inspiration is constantly fuelled and encouraged by my tutors who help me find my own individual style of playing, be it chamber music or solo performance. Abel Selaocoe, 2nd year cellist, BMus, ABRSM scholar

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Bachelor of Music/ BMus(Hons)

Principal Study (240 credits) Principal Study forms the core of all College activity. You will receive a weekly lesson with one of our internationally-renowned tutors, as well as regular performance classes or composition workshops to develop your skills as a performer or composer to the highest level. Activities such as masterclasses with renowned visiting musicians, the Collegeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual Chamber Music Festival, special events in your School, and the Collegeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s many ensembles will support your technical, musical and creative development. Professional Development and Skills (100 credits) Professional Development and Skills run throughout the course. As part of your work-related learning in Years 3 and 4, you will undertake at least one placement, choosing from a range of exciting education and outreach projects, arts administration opportunities, and our Professional Experience Schemes, which give you the opportunity to audition to work with one of our partner orchestras or ensembles, which include the BBC Philharmonic, HallĂŠ, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, Manchester Camerata and Black Dyke Band. Composers can receive credit for external commissions and benefit from extensive outreach work.

The key principle underlying your professional development will be to draw upon every aspect of the curriculum, and to enhance this with the entrepreneurial skills, business skills and the professional experience you will need to enable your vision for your future to become reality.

The BMus programme establishes as many links as possible with RNCM Performance and Programming, for example, the elective menu for 2012/13 complements the RNCM 40th Anniversary focus on Beethoven and associated repertoires.

Contextual Learning: Academic Studies (140 credits) You will attend classes in musicianship, which include how to improvise and build on your aural awareness, historical and contextual studies led by specialist staff with expertise in repertoire across the centuries and styles, performance and repertoire classes in which you explore interpretative issues, and language of music classes where you will learn how the music you play works and how to write sophisticated music in two and four parts.

3-year intensive pathway The College offers, for exceptional candidates, a three-year pathway through the BMus(Hons) course. Normally ten places will be available to applicants who can demonstrate outstanding academic and practical ability, as well as exceptional maturity, at audition and interview.

Later in the programme, a series of electives is offered by leading researchers in music, including exploring issues in historical and contemporary performance practice, composition, notation, orchestration, music and other arts (painting, architecture, cinema), music for the stage, arranging and many more. The ethos is to provide you with the highest quality teaching underpinned by cutting-edge research, all of which is designed to complement your practical work and future career aspirations.

Find out more at www.rncm.ac.uk

All applicants to the BMus(Hons) will initially apply and audition for the four-year route. It is only following audition and consideration of musical and academic ability, that selectors may invite candidates exceptionally onto the three-year pathway. The three-year pathway is also intended to enable such exceptional students to be able to apply for and progress to the one-year MMus at the College and thus potentially enter the profession after four years of conservatoire level training, rather than the usual five or six.

Exchange opportunity During your time at the College you can broaden your horizons still further by studying abroad for a term, or for a full academic year. Exchanges usually take place in Year 3 of the undergraduate degree. We currently have links with institutions across Europe, and in Asia, Australia, Canada, South America and the USA. For more information about exchange opportunities and our full list of partner institutions, visit the International pages of our website www.rncm.ac.uk/international or email international@rncm.ac.uk. Exchanges in Europe are offered through the Erasmus exchange programme. You can visit the pages of the British Council www.britishcouncil.org/erasmus and the Association of European Conservatoires www.aecinfo.org for further information and useful advice.

Additional qualifications Throughout your degree studies you will be offered opportunities to work towards other externally-recognised qualifications at reduced cost. These qualifications will give you additional accreditation when you graduate and are very important to enhance your employability. LRSM & FRSM opportunity The RNCM has negotiated a scheme with the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM) whereby Year 3 students may enter for the award of Licentiate of the Royal Schools of Music (LRSM), and Year 4 students may enter for the Fellowship of the Royal Schools of Music (FRSM). Special arrangements are made for the practical examination so that your end-of-year recital can be assessed concurrently by the RNCM (towards your degree) and also by an examiner of the ABRSM.

CTABRSM opportunity Students have the unique possibility of completing an ABRSM Certificate of Teaching during Years 3 and 4 of study. This option is only available to students at the RNCM. To find out more about the partnership between the RNCM and ABRSM visit www.rncm.ac.uk/abrsm.

Academic Studies Staff Dean of Academic Studies Dr Martin Harlow BA, MPhil, PhD, Dip.NCOS, FRNCM, ARCM Dean of Research & Enterprise Professor Richard Wistreich MA, MA Music, PhD Associate Dean of Research and Enterprise & Director, Centre for Music Performance Research Professor Jane Ginsborg BA(Hons), DipGSMD, BA(Hons), PhD, CPsychol Senior Lecturer, BMus(Hons) Course Leader Dr Lois Fitch BA(Hons), PhD Lecturer in Music, Assistant Course Leader BMus(Hons) Michelle Phillips BA(Hons), MA

Senior Lecturer, GRNCM Course Leader Dr Simon Parkin MusB, GRNCM, PhD, ARCM Director of Professional Studies Kate Buchanan BMus, FHEA Academic Tutors Steve Berry Dr Simon Clarke BMus, MMus, MPhil, PhD

Tutor in Composition, Assistant Course Leader PGDip/MMus Dr David Horne BMus, PhD

Learning Support Tutor, Academic Tutor (Theory, History) Cheryll Duncan BMus, MA, MA, PGCE Language Support Tutor Dr Jean Ammar Cert Ed, Dip Ed, TESOL MEd, TESOL MA, PhD, Dip Management

Dr Alinka Greasley BSc, PhD, PGCLTHE, MBPsS, FHEA

Research Fellows Emeritus Professor Douglas Jarman BA, PhD, FRNCM

Geth Griffith BMus(Hons), PGDipRNCM

Dr Jonathan Savage BA(Hons), PGCE, PhD

Dr Larry Goves BMus, MPhil, PhD

Associate Research Fellow Dr David Ledbetter MA, MusB, DPhil, Dip Staatliche Hochschule Freiburg

Eileen Guppy MA, GCLCM, ARCM, LRAM, LGSM Paul Hindmarsh BMus

Senior Lecturer, PGDip/MMus Course Leader Dr Fabrice Fitch MMus, PhD, Premier Prix de Composition (Conservatoire National de RĂŠgion, Bordeaux)

Co-ordinator of Jazz Studies Mike Hall BSc, PGDipRNCM

Dr Felicity Laurence BSc, DipEd, MA, PhD, LRSM Dr Helen Seddon-Gray GRNCM, MusM, PhD Matthew Sergeant BMus, MPhil Peter Syrus BA, BPhil, ATCL Dr David Vickers BA(Hons), MMus, PhD Dr Nina Whiteman BA(Hons), MusM, PhD Dr Kris Worsley BMus(Hons), MusM, PhD

Find out more at www.rncm.ac.uk

32 Graduate Diploma of the RNCM (GRNCM)

Bachelor of Music MusB(Hons) (The University of Manchester)

Graduate Diploma of the RNCM (GRNCM)/Bachelor of Music MusB(Hons) (The University of Manchester) Four years, full-time CUKAS Code: 399F Application deadline: 1 October 2012

This offers a unique opportunity for students with outstanding practical and academic ability to gain the advantage of simultaneous study at both a world-class conservatoire and a world-class university. Students study on two distinct programmes alongside one another: the Graduate Diploma of the Royal Northern College of Music (GRNCM) and the Bachelor of Music degree (MusB(Hons)) of The University of Manchester. In the first three years both programmes are studied concurrently, with the final year spent solely at the College completing the Graduate Diploma. The GRNCM builds on your ability as a performer or composer, while the MusB(Hons) complements this study with scholarly practical education. The Graduate Diploma consists of two key areas: Principal Study in Performance or Composition and Professional Development and Skills (see BMus(Hons) structure on pages 28 – 31 for details of these key areas of study). All performance tuition, coaching, chamber ensembles and most orchestral playing opportunities are provided by the College throughout the four years.

The MusB(Hons) of The University of Manchester is a highly-regarded degree programme involving the interrelated study of musical performance, composition and musicology (including ethnomusicology). Full details of the MusB(Hons) programme are available on the University’s website at www.arts.manchester.ac.uk/ subjectareas/music/ undergraduatestudy. For many years the RNCM and The University of Manchester have offered entry for a small number of highly talented students to study simultaneously on both these high quality programmes in what has become known for brevity as the ‘Joint Course’. Entrance to the GRNCM/MusB(Hons) programmes is highly competitive and both institutions are involved in the selection process, setting the highest standards for both performance and academic ability. The GRNCM/MusB(Hons) course is treated as one course by the Student Loans Company for fees purposes.

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Shortlisting and audition requirements Applicants should submit an application form along with a short recording of at least two contrasting pieces (maximum 15 minutes) for the purposes of shortlisting. Shortlisted applicants will be auditioned at the RNCM and interviewed at the University in December in accordance with the published requirements of each institution. Composers’ portfolios are assessed by a panel with selected candidates being called for an audition and interview.

The course actually offers a vast and varied amount of performance opportunities. I have been fortunate enough to perform with the chamber and symphony orchestras at university, as well as playing in the RNCM Concert and Opera Orchestras. The most rewarding aspect for me is how both institutions have created a finely-tuned balance between programming classical repertoire, and music which is perhaps not played as often as it should be. Your musical boundaries are stretched and challenged - which is ultimately why we are here. Henry Clay, 2nd year oboist, GRNCM/MusB(Hons)

Find out more at www.rncm.ac.uk

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Applications for the two programmes are made via CUKAS to the RNCM and the deadline for September 2013 entry is 1 October 2012. For full details see How to Apply on page 72. Applicants who are not shortlisted for both the GRNCM/MusB(Hons) will automatically be considered, and offered an audition, for the RNCM BMus(Hons) degree.

34 Bachelor of Arts (Hons) Popular Music Performance

Three years, full-time CUKAS code: 201F Application deadline: 1 October 2012

Principal Study available in Vocals Piano/Keyboard Guitar Bass Guitar Drum Kit *Subject to validation

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The BA(Hons) Popular Music Performance degree, delivered in association with Access to Music (part of the Armstrong Learning group), provides intensive training for instrumentalists and singers with a high level of performing ability who intend to work as freelance musicians in the popular music industry, or to prepare for postgraduate study.

The course is delivered at the RNCM, Access to Music Manchester and Blueprint Studios, where you will work with teaching staff who are highly-respected academics and active professionals in the music industry, working as session musicians, recording artists, composers, musical directors, writers, managers, promoters and performers in their own right.

The course comprises 360 credits over 3 years, with half of the programme dedicated to developing skills in your Principal Study. In addition to the rigorous instrumental/ vocal teaching, the programme also develops your academic and creative skills, and cultivates business acumen and entrepreneurial activity through employment and employability training.

Principal Study (180 credits) Principal Study is at the core of your training and focuses on your technical instrumental/vocal development through individual and group tuition. You will gain skills in effective practice strategies leading to solo performance recitals, and ensemble rehearsal techniques leading to live and studio

Studying at a conservatoire is a unique experience for popular musicians. We enjoy a wide range of performance opportunities, some of which are self-initiated with fellow students, some from our tutors, and others from the external engagement team. We also gain first hand experience of a professional studio at work, through lessons at Blueprint Studios. We regularly meet artists already working in the profession; we recently enjoyed a fantastic workshop with Jessie J’s session band, and a masterclass with musician Pablo Cook. Caroline Hendry, 1st year singer, BA(Hons)

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Bachelor of Arts BA(Hons) Popular Music Performance*

35 performances. You will also learn how to integrate music technology into performance, in both live and studio situations. In Year 3 you will have the opportunity to devise, produce and realise a final major performance project. Musicianship (100 credits) Musicianship underpins your technical and practical skills development through the study of music theory, aural perception, transcription, sight-reading and improvisation. You will have the opportunity to apply these to your original work in the composing, arranging, and musical direction modules, in which you will also be encouraged to explore interpretative and theoretical skills. Professional Development and Skills (80 credits) Professional Development gives you the knowledge and skills to establish and sustain a career as a self-employed freelance musician. You will study music business, finance, self-promotion, music workshops, marketing and networking, and you will be encouraged to explore employment opportunities while studying for your degree. You will also gain a contextual understanding of the historical, psychological, sociological and political elements of the popular music industry, alongside the development of academic research, writing and presentation skills.

Performance Opportunities Manchester is a creative, digital and media hub and has a vibrant popular music scene rooted in a rich cultural history. The city is home to major international live performance venues and more intimate venues where RNCM students perform regularly. As a student on the BA(Hons) Popular Music Performance degree, you will be actively encouraged to develop your own collaborative performance projects throughout the programme. You will have opportunities to work with students on the RNCM BMus programme with classical and jazz backgrounds, with degree students at the School of Sound Recording, and with students on Access to Music’s BA(Hons) Music Business programme. You will also have the opportunity to audition for ensembles such as the RNCM Session Orchestra, Gospel Choir and Big Band, and to be part of the ATOM Live events company. Students have recently performed with high-profile artists including Craig David, Tinchy Stryder and Cee Lo Green; toured with Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds; and appeared alongside violinist David Garrett at the 2011 Royal Variety Performance at the Lowry Theatre. For details about how to apply, entry requirements, advice auditions, audition fees and English Language requirements see pages 71 – 75.

Find out more at www.rncm.ac.uk

Staff Course Director Andy Stott BA, PGCE, MA Assistant Course Director Katie Chatburn BMus, LRAM, PGCE Senior Lecturer, Musicianship Tutor, Musical Director, Bass Guitar Tutor Dr Mauricio Pauly MusB, MusM, PhD Musicianship Tutor Rodrigo Constanzo MusB Professional Practice Tutor Hannah McGuigan BMus Musical Director, Drum Tutor Bryan Hargreaves BA Vocal Tutor Nicki Allan BA, PGCE Guitar Tutor Johnny Heyes BA Keyboard Tutor Matt Steele BA, MA

36 We are committed to helping you realise your creative potential as a composer, and equipping you with the technical means to develop a personal style. You will receive tuition from our professional and supportive staff, all of whom are highly experienced and will encourage you to unleash your full potential.

Composition Composition

At the RNCM, we feel it is critical for you to learn your craft by hearing how your compositions work in practice, so every piece of music you write is performed and recorded. You will have the opportunity to work with world-renowned staff, including HK Gruber, the RNCM’s International Chair in Composition.

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As a performance venue, the RNCM is a magnet for world-class composers of the calibre of Magnus Lindberg, Sir Harrison Birtwistle, Louis Andriessen and Sir Peter Maxwell Davies, all of whom have visited the RNCM in recent years and worked with composition students. World-class ensembles who have also worked with student composers include the BBC Singers, Manchester Camerata, Liverpool 10/10, the Smith Quartet and the Apollo Saxophone Quartet.

Something really extraordinary about the RNCM is the amount of performance possibilities there are for your music. There are regular ‘Brand New Days’ and ‘Labs’, which are open workshops and performances with the RNCM orchestras and ensembles. More generally, there is a vibrant, friendly and very open atmosphere here, which makes it a wonderful place to work and meet people. Aaron Parker, 3rd year composer, BMus

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Principal Study available in

37 Getting in touch Admissions/audition enquiries: admissions@rncm.ac.uk Composition course enquiries: louise.jones@rncm.ac.uk

38 Undergraduate Programme The undergraduate degree programme consists of Principal Study and many related composition or performance activities, such as external commissions, electroacoustic music, and creative leadership skills. Practical activity is placed into context in Academic Studies, professional skills training and work-related learning.

Composition

Principal Study You will receive individual tuition and a technical class each week throughout your degree, alongside tuition in electro-acoustic composition, seminars and regular composers’ ‘laboratories’ where you will work alongside RNCM contemporary music ensembles. In Year 1 you will also receive subsidiary piano tuition. Through Principal Study you will enhance your technical skills and their application in various compositional contexts. Progress is evaluated through mid-year assessments which take place in Years 1, 2 and 3. As a student composer at the RNCM you will regularly have your work performed in public concerts. You will work closely with the specialist New Ensemble and other groups dedicated to the performance of new music. Three times each year, the RNCM Symphony Orchestra is available for rehearsals, performances and recordings of student orchestral compositions.

Academic Studies The academic course is designed to complement your composition activities. In Years 1 and 2 you will take Historical and Contextual Studies, Musicianship, Language of Music and Performance Studies, in which you will be encouraged to explore interpretative, repertoirefocused practical and theoretical skills. You will be able to specialise in particular historical styles, ranging from the Renaissance to the present day. In Years 3 and 4 you will specialise in your chosen repertoire as well as contemporary styles. You will select an elective from a range of topics, many of which complement the RNCM’s wider artistic programme, offering a diverse and interactive approach to learning about music from expert, internationally-recognised tutors.

Recent highlights • The College held three ‘Brand New Days’ with public performances of orchestral music composed exclusively by RNCM student composers • Student composers had their works played by professional ensembles including the Manchester Camerata, the BBC Singers, the Kreutzer Quartet and Exaudi • Composer festivals focused on the works of Howard Skempton, Brian Ferneyhough, Judith Weir and Christopher Rouse. All the festivals featured works by student composers • RNCM alumni Sally Beamish, Emily Howard and Gavin Higgins were selected for the New Music 20x12 project. The project is a UK-wide programme consisting of twenty outstanding new works, each lasting 12 minutes, which have been commissioned the London 2012 Cultural Olympiad.

HK Gruber

39 Masterclasses Sir Sir Peter Maxwell Davies, alumnus and Master of the Queenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Music, is among the list of high-profile composers to give masterclasses to composition students. Other composers who have visited the RNCM recently and worked with composition students include Brian Ferneyhough, Judith Weir, Gabriel Jackson, Howard Skempton, and our International Chair HK Gruber.

Professional Skills and Development To prepare you for your future career, you will take a Professional Skills course focused on performance and composition, entrepreneurial, and presentation skills, including writing skills ranging from concert reviewing and essay support through to CV and promotional materials. Classes in memorization techniques, sightsinging, and open chamber music coaching sessions will take place alongside classes on negotiating the music profession, presenting yourself, and effective research. In Years 3 and 4 you will select a work-related learning placement, such as teaching experience, outreach projects, Music for Health or arts administration. You will also have the opportunity to work with experienced professionals including our professional partners such as Northern Ballet School, Manchester Camerata and our own RNCM Performance and Programming Team. You will also select specialised composition or performance activities to enhance the range of profession-orientated skills in your professional portfolio. Options include Chamber Music, conducting, external commission, quick study, electro-acoustic music and Professional Experience Scheme.

Staff Head of School Professor Adam Gorb MA, MMus, ARAM, FRNCM

Visiting Tutors in Composition Simon Bainbridge FRCM, HonRAM Tim Garland

Director of Contemporary Music Clark Rundell BMusEd, FRNCM International Chair in Composition HK Gruber Tutors in Composition Professor Gary Carpenter LRAM, ARCM Professor Adam Gorb MA, MMus, ARAM, FRNCM Dr Larry Goves BMus, MPhil, PhD Dr David Horne BMus, PhD Dr Emily Howard MA, MMus, PhD Paul Patterson FRAM, FRSA, FRNCM

Tutor in Electro-acoustic Composition Dr Thomas Scott GRNCM, MusB, MusM, PhD For sound clips, staff biographies and up-to-date information and news, visit www.rncm.ac.uk/composition

40 In the School of Keyboard Studies we will challenge, encourage and support you in reaching your full potential. Our high-profile and committed international tutors create a nurturing environment in which to work, and give you the skills essential to becoming a versatile professional.

Keyboard Studies Principal Study available in Piano Accompaniment* Organ Harpsichord * available at undergraduate level from Year 3

Through expert one-to-one tuition and outstanding performance opportunities you will build your technical resources, interpretative insight and communication skills. We attract students from all over the world, and the international diversity of the School enriches the learning experience of all our students due to the wide range of styles and approaches adopted.

The standard and number of instruments available to you is exceptional. Each piano tutorial space has a Steinway and these, alongside our Yamaha pianos, furnish the RNCM with one of the most impressive fleets in Europe. Our practice facilities are also impressive, with no piano being more than ten years old. Organists have access to instruments in the Collegeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s venues, and benefit from the institutionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s close association with the cathedrals in Manchester, Salford and Blackburn. For historical performance we have a fine array of harpsichords and fortepianos in our collection of historical musical instruments.

41 Getting in touch Admissions/audition enquiries: admissions@rncm.ac.uk Keyboard Studies course enquiries: louise.jones@rncm.ac.uk

Keyboard Studies

Principal Study Throughout your degree you will receive regular tuition and classes from your tutor. To support tuition there is a weekly performance class, internal recitals, and a student-led showcase recital series. Through Principal Study you will enhance your technical skills, sight-reading proficiency in studies and concerto. Progress is evaluated through midyear assessments which take place in Years 1, 2 and 3. You will have many opportunities to perform within the College including masterclasses, festivals, concerto auditions, orchestral experience, chamber music and competitions. Extensive external professional engagement opportunities are also on offer throughout your degree.

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Academic Studies The academic course is designed to complement your performance or composition activities. In Years 1 and 2 you will take Historical and Contextual Studies, Musicianship, Language of Music and Performance Studies, in which you will be encouraged to explore interpretative, repertoire-focused practical and theoretical skills. You will be able to specialise in particular historical styles, ranging from the Renaissance to the present day. In Years 3 and 4 you will specialise in your chosen repertoire as well as contemporary styles. You will select an elective from a range of topics, many of which complement the RNCM’s wider artistic programme, offering a diverse and interactive approach to learning about music from expert, internationally-recognised tutors.

There are a vast number of world-class pianists who come to the RNCM to give masterclasses and concerts, for instance, both John Lill and Steven Osborne visited the RNCM recently. Whilst it is easy for pianists to consider the piano merely a solo instrument, the School of Keyboard Studies is so well integrated that there are many opportunities to join chamber ensembles and accompany other instrumentalists and singers. Ryan Drucker, 1st year pianist, BMus

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Undergraduate Programme The undergraduate degree programme consists of Principal Study and many related performance activities, such as chamber music, accompaniment, advanced skills for organists, and creative leadership skills. Practical activity is placed into context in Academic Studies, professional skills training and work-related learning.

Stephen Hough

Professional Skills and Development To prepare you for your future career, you will take a Professional Skills course focused on performance, entrepreneurial, and presentation skills, including writing skills ranging from concert reviewing and essay support through to CV and promotional materials. Classes in memorization techniques, sightsinging, and open chamber music

Masterclasses RNCM students have recently enjoyed masterclasses with International Chair Stephen Hough, as well as internationally-acclaimed visiting artists and teachers, such as András Schiff, Dmitry Bashkirov, Jean-Efflam Bavouzet, Andrzej Jasinski, Leslie Howard, John O’Conor, Jerome Rose and Arie Vardi coaching sessions will take place alongside classes on negotiating the music profession, presenting yourself, and effective research. In Years 3 and 4 you will select a work-related learning placement, including gaining vital teaching experience, taking part in outreach projects, or participating in Music for Health and arts administration. You will have the opportunity to

Recent highlights • The RNCM Keyboard Weekend focused on the music of 20th and 21st century American composers. RNCM students performed works by Ives, Gershwin, Reich and Barber, among others. The closing recital was given by Peter Jablonski, one of the world’s finest interpreters of American music • Internationally-renowned pianist and RNCM alumnus Steven Osborne performed the complete works of Ravel for broadcast on BBC Radio 3

work with experienced professionals and our own RNCM Performance and Programming Team. You will also select specialised performance activities to enhance the range of profession-orientated skills in your portfolio. Options include Professional Experience Schemes, Chamber Music, conducting, contemporary piano, jazz piano, and for organists, Church music and advanced skills.

44 Staff Head of School Graham Scott GMusRNCM, PPRNCM

Keyboard Studies

Peter Lawson GRSM, ARMCM Sally Ann MacLeod PPRNCM Murray McLachlan MA, LRAM

Deputy Head of School Helen Krizos LMusA International Chair in Piano Studies Stephen Hough

Tutor in Pedagogy Helen Krizos LMusA

Dina Parakhina PGDip, MDip (Tchaikovsky Moscow Conservatory)

Staff Pianist Co-ordinator Dr David Jones BMus, PGDipRNCM, MusM(Perf), PhD Staff Pianists Roderick Barrand MusB, GRNCM, ARNCM

Dr Stephen Savage PhD Harvey Davies GRNCM

International Tutors in Piano Studies Michel Beroff

Graham Scott GMusRNCM, PPRNCM Colin Stone

Phillipe Cassard

Jonathan Fisher BMus, MMus Jonathan Gooing BMus(Hons), MMus, LRSM

Jeremy Young LRAM, ARAM Nelson Goerner FRNCM International Tutor in Fortepiano Studies Stefano Fiuzzi International Tutor in Organ Studies Thomas Trotter International Tutor in Harpsichord Terence Charlston Visiting Tutor in Song Duos Julius Drake FRAM Senior Tutor in Piano Paul Roberts ARAM, FGS Tutors in Pianoforte Benjamin Frith BA, ARCM John Gough GMusRNCM, PPRNCM, ARCM, FLCM Paul Janes MusB, GRNCM, PPRNCM Helen Krizos LMusA

Tutor in Jazz Piano Eileen Guppy MA, GCLCM, ARCM, LRAM, LGSM Tutor in Contemporary Piano Peter Lawson GRSM, ARMCM

Dr David Jones BMus, PGDipRNCM, MusM(Perf), PhD Miyako Machida PGDipRNCM, PPRNCM Benjamin Powell BMus, MMus, PPRNCM, MPhil

Tutors in Accompaniment John Gough GMusRNCM, PPRNCM

Stephen Reynolds GRSM, ARMCM

Paul Janes MusB, GRNCM, PPRNCM

Jonathan Scott BMus, PPRNCM, ARCM, FTCL

Dr David Jones BMus, PGDipRNCM, MusM(Perf), PhD

Ruth Webb BMus, PPRNCM, PGDip

Tutors in Organ Darius Battiwalla BA, MusM, FRCO, PPRNCM

Alexis White BMus, MMus

Simon Lindley FRCO(CHM), FTCL, GRSM(Lond), ARCM, LRAM Jeffrey Makinson BMus, FRCO, PGDipRNCM, PPRNCM, PGCE, ARCM, LTCL

Tutors in Subsidiary Piano Helen Fairer BA, PGDipRNCM, PPRNCM Stephen Reynolds GRSM, ARMCM For sound clips, staff biographies and up-to-date information and news, visit www.rncm.ac.uk/keyboardstudies

46 As a student in the School of Strings you will be part of a vibrant and supportive community of outstanding students and inspirational staff, including leading international tutors and world-class visiting artists.

Strings Principal Study available in Violin Viola Cello Double Bass Guitar Harp

Gábor Takács-Nagy

Widely recognised as one of Europe’s finest string faculties, the School enjoys an international reputation for training string players of the highest calibre. Through expert coaching and a wide array of solo, orchestral and chamber music performance opportunities, we will give you comprehensive preparation for a professional career in music.

You will have the invaluable opportunity for a placement with four leading professional orchestras, the Hallé, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, BBC Philharmonic, and Manchester Camerata, which is resident in the College. You can also work with historical instruments and in the RNCM Baroque Ensemble.

Our students have the opportunity to work with International Chairs such as Gábor Takács-Nagy, International Chair in Chamber Music and founder of the worldrenowned Takács Quartet, Ralph Kirshbaum, International Chair in Cello, Nobuko Imai, International Chair in Viola, and many other highprofile visiting international artists.

As one of the UK’s leading performance venues, all students enjoy opportunities to perform to public audiences throughout the academic year in the College’s inspiring Concert Hall, Theatre and recital rooms.

Masterclasses Recent masterclasses have been given by Julian Rachlin, Paul Galbraith, Garth Knox, RNCM International Chair in Chamber Music Gábor Takács-Nagy, International Chair in Violin Yair Kless, International Tutor in Violin Gérard Poulet, and International Tutor in Cello Gary Hoffman.

Getting in touch Admissions/audition enquiries: admissions@rncm.ac.uk Strings course enquiries: margaret.kaye@rncm.ac.uk

Strings

Undergraduate Programme The undergraduate degree programme consists of Principal Study and many related performance activities, including chamber music and orchestra. Practical activity is placed into context in Academic Studies, professional skills training and work-related learning.

Principal Study Throughout your degree you will receive regular instrumental tuition and classes from your tutor. The School also has an ‘open class’ policy and you will be encouraged to attend as many classes as possible given by tutors other than your own. You may participate in regular string recitals and progress is evaluated through mid-year assessments that take place in Years 1, 2 and 3. You will prepare for a formal recital at the end of the year and you may also audition for external professional engagement opportunities throughout your degree. You will enjoy many performance activities and opportunities including chamber music, auditions for RNCM orchestras and ensembles, internal competitions, and participation in the RNCM’s festivals and masterclasses.

You will participate in speciality classes focusing on highly relevant areas of learning, such as orchestral excerpts, historical performance, repertoire development, viola for violinists, performance techniques and leadership skills.

Rachel Shakespeare, 4th year cellist, BMus

‘‘

There is a fantastic chamber studio at the RNCM and many internationally-renowned musicians visit to offer tuition to ensembles. We have ‘Speciality Orchestral Classes’ with the many Principal Study tutors who are orchestral musicians, and often Principals of their section; each tutor holds a session specifically on standard orchestral repertoire. Being the only conservatoire in Manchester, the RNCM has great placement schemes with the many professional orchestras in the region.

Ami Oike winner of the 2011 RNCM MIVC with Edward Gregson

In Years 3 and 4 you will select a work-related learning placement, including gaining teaching experience, taking part in outreach projects, participating in Music for Health, or arts administration. You will also have the opportunity to work with experienced professionals including our professional partners such as the BBC Philharmonic, Hallé, Manchester Camerata and our own RNCM Performance and Programming Team. You will also select specialised performance activities to enhance the range of profession-orientated skills in your professional portfolio. Options include chamber music, conducting, directed ensembles, advanced jazz improvisation, and Professional Experience Schemes.

Recent highlights • RNCM string students on the International Artist Diploma course undertook a tour to China, performing in Hong Kong, Guangzhou and Hainan • The second RNCM Manchester International Violin Competition (MIVC) attracted competitors from all over the world, including Japan, China, Korea, Russia, USA and Australia. Competitors enjoyed masterclasses from jury members including Almita Vamos, Pierre Amoyal and Kazuki Sawa.

50 Staff Head of School and Dean of Performance Studies Professor Malcolm Layfield DipRSAMD, FRNCM Deputy Head of School Chris Hoyle GRNCM, PPRNCM Senior Lecturer in Strings Dr Louise Lansdown BMus, PGDipRNCM, MMus, MPhil, PhD

Strings

Thomas Kemp MA, MMus, FRSA Mark Knight AGSM

Karine Georgian Grad (Moscow) Professor Malcolm Layfield DipRSAMD, FRNCM

Chris Hoyle GRNCM, PPRNCM

Miranda Playfair LTCL

Nicholas Jones ARCM

Maciej Rakowski MA

Hannah Roberts ARCM, PPRNCM, FRNCM

Yuri Torchinsky PGDip, MDip Tchaikovsky Moscow Conservatory

International Chair in Viola Nobuko Imai

Steven Wilkie GMusRNCM, PGDipRNCM

International Chair in Cello Ralph Kirshbaum BA, FRNCM

Catherine Yates GMusRNCM(Hons), PPRNCM

International Tutor in Violin Gérard Poulet

Tutor in Baroque Violin Dr Pauline Nobes ARNCM, GRNCM, MusM(Perf), MusB, PGDipRNCM, PhD

International Tutors in Cello Gary Hoffman BMus, Artist Dip. (Indiana State University)

Philip Higham BMus, PGDip, International Artist Diploma RNCM

Professor Wen Zhou Li BMus, Dip (Beijing), FRNCM

International Chair in Violin Professor Yair Kless BAMus, MAMus

International Tutor in Viola Thomas Riebl

Emma Ferrand DipRAM, ARAM, LRAM, FRNCM

Visiting Tutor in Viola Simon Rowland-Jones ARCM

Gillian Thoday LRAM, Konzert Dip (North West German Music Academy) Nicholas Trygstad BMus(Hons) Eduardo Vassallo Dip (Maastricht Conservatoire), Dip (International Menuhin Academy, Gstaad) Tutor in Baroque Cello Susan Sheppard ARAM Tutors in Double Bass Roberto Carillo Jirˇ í Hudec

Tutors in Viola David Aspin ARCM

Max Zeugner

Raphael Wallfisch FRAM, FGSM Mark Knight AGSM International Tutor in Double Bass Božo Paradcˇ ik Tutors in Violin Leland Chen Levon Chilingirian ARCM, FRCM, HonPhD Pavel Fischer

Dr Louise Lansdown BMus, PGDipRNCM, MMus, MPhil, PhD Alex Robertson GMusRNCM, PPRNCM Asdis Valdimarsdottir Tutor in Baroque Viola Annette Isserlis

Thelma Handy DipRCM Benedict Holland PPRNCM

Tutors in Cello Peter Dixon FRAM, ARAM

Visiting Tutor in Guitar Gordon Crosskey BSc, ARCM, FRNCM Tutor in Guitar Craig Ogden BA(Mus), PGDipRNCM, PPRNCM, FRNCM Tutor in Harp Eira-Lynn Jones GMusRNCM, MMus Tutor in Dalcroze Eurythmics Karin Greenhead For sound clips, staff biographies and up-to-date information and news, visit www.rncm.ac.uk/strings

52 The RNCM is renowned as one of the most inspiring conservatoires in the world to pursue vocal studies. As well as receiving one-to-one tuition from an international body of highly professional and supportive staff and worldclass visiting artists, our unique team-teaching approach allows you to benefit from the collective expertise of our tutors.

Vocal Studies Principal Study available in All voice types, covering the full range of repertoire

We offer unparalleled performance opportunities for singers, including lieder and oratorio performances, choral work, chamber music, and our fully-staged public opera productions that regularly receive external acclaim. Among the many high-profile guest artists who visit the College to work with RNCM singers are RNCM President Sir Willard White, International Chair in Singing Joan Rodgers CBE, Roger Vignoles, David Owen Norris, Anthony Spiri, Julius Drake, Barbara Bonney and Thomas Hampson, as well as conductors Sir Mark Elder CBE, Mark Shanahan and Garry Walker. Our focus throughout is on the development of your voice, and the essential musicianship, performance and communication skills you will need as a singer. We place particular emphasis on musicianship and ensemble skills to achieve expressive and generous singing.

RNCM Opera We present a wide-ranging programme of opera each season, continuing a long-tradition of achievement in this field and provide intensive training in all aspects of preparation for performance, including stagecraft, diction, and language tuition. The College is proud of its outstanding performance venues, which include an exceptionally well-equipped theatre, tailored for full-scale public productions, and a smaller and more intimate Studio Theatre. Our students can enjoy a diverse yet demanding repertoire, which has most recently included Bizet’s Carmen, Johann Strauss’ Die Fledermaus, Offenbach’s La Belle Hélène, Mozart’s La Clemenza di Tito, Ravel’s L’heure Espagnole and L’enfant et les sortilèges, Tchaikovsky’s Eugene Onegin, Puccini’s La Rondine, Barber’s Vanessa, and Britten’s Albert Herring.

53 Getting in touch Admissions/audition enquiries: admissions@rncm.ac.uk Vocal Studies course enquiries: sue.marsden@rncm.ac.uk

Vocal Studies

Andrew Brown, 2nd year singer, BMus Undergraduate Programme The undergraduate degree programme consists of Principal Study and many related performance activities, such as language tuition and creative leadership skills. Practical activity is placed into context in Academic Studies, professional skills training and work-related learning. Principal Study Throughout your degree you will receive dedicated voice tuition. Teaching will include the full range of repertoire including Lieder, Italian Song, English Song, French mélodies, Oratorio, Historical Performance and Opera. You will also receive coaching in a range of areas including performance, physical awareness, phonetics, chamber music and improvisation. You will study a range of subjects including one year’s tuition in each of three languages – Italian, German and French, and receive tuition in languages for singing. Examples of other subjects include Alexander Technique, diction and stagecraft.

You will take part in Choral and ensemble classes to enhance your musicianship and sight-reading skills. Progress is evaluated through end-of-year assessments which take place in Years 1, 2 and 3. Performance opportunities within the College will include weekly performance classes as well as recitals, masterclasses, festivals, operas and opera excerpts. There are also numerous competitions open to singers. You may audition for external professional engagement opportunities throughout your degree course and you will be encouraged to create your own performing opportunities, and to audition with one or more of the major opera companies visiting the RNCM each year. You are also encouraged to audition for an Oratorio Showcase and for choral and ensemble opportunities.

‘‘

What I really like about this course is the amount of opportunities we are given. For instance, the opera is a fantastic way to experience performing on stage. Singers at the RNCM benefit from team teaching, allowing each student to receive vocal tuition from a number of internationally-renowned tutors. We also have numerous classes in languages, performance and movement. The RNCM is a great place to prepare you for the challenges presented by a professional career as a singer.

Academic Studies The academic course is designed to complement your performance activities. In Years 1 and 2 you will take Historical and Contextual Studies, Musicianship, Language of Music and Performance Studies, in which you will be encouraged to explore interpretative, repertoirefocused practical and theoretical skills. You will be able to specialise in particular historical styles, ranging from the Renaissance to the present day. In Years 3 and 4 you will specialise in your chosen repertoire as well as contemporary styles. You will select an elective from a range of topics, many of which complement the RNCM’s wider artistic programme, offering a diverse and interactive approach to learning about music from expert, internationallyrecognised tutors.

Joan Rodgers CBE

In Years 3 and 4 you will select a work-related learning placement, including gaining teaching experience, taking part in outreach projects, participating in Music for Health, or arts administration. You will also have the opportunity to work with experienced professionals including our professional partners such as Opera North, HallĂŠ, Manchester Camerata and our own RNCM Performance and Programming Team. You will also select specialised performance activities to enhance the range of profession-orientated skills in your professional portfolio. Options include opera excerpts, musical theatre, movement and dance, French Lieder, and Professional Experience Schemes.

Masterclasses RNCM singers took part in masterclasses with internationally-renowned guest artists including baritones Thomas Hampson and Roderick Williams, sopranos Christine Brewer and the RNCMâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s International Chair in Singing Joan Rodgers CBE, tenor James Gilchrist, and mezzo-sopranos Sarah Connolly and Catherine Wyn-Rogers.

56 Staff Head of Vocal Studies Lynne Dawson MIL Head of RNCM Opera Stefan Janski LRAM, LUD, DipNCSD, FRNCM, FHEA Deputy Head of Vocal Studies Susan Roper BA, Magister Linguae (Florence), PGDipRNCM

Vocal Studies

Jeffrey Lawton FRNCM David Lowe MA(Hons), HonARAM Stuart MacIntyre BA, FTCL, LLCM Paul Nilon PPRNCM Mary Plazas GMus(Hons), PPRNCM

Tutor in Russian Song Nataliya KompaniyetsJouri BEng(Hons), BA(Hons), PGDipRNCM, PPRNCM, PGCertPAE, FHEA Tutors in Acting, Stagecraft and Diction Garth Bardsley MA Caroline Clegg MA Kevin Jones

Music Staff Co-ordinator Kevin Thraves DipRCM, ARCM

Deborah Rees PPRNCM

International Chair in Singing Joan Rodgers CBE

Susan Roper BA, Magister Linguae (Florence), PGDipRNCM

Director, RNCM Chamber Choir Jamie Burton

Barbara Robotham ARMCM, FRMCM, FRNCM, FUCLan

Chorus Master, RNCM Chamber Choir Dr David Jones BMus, PGDipRNCM, MusM(Perf), PhD

Thomas Schulze

International Tutors Ryland Davies

Peter Alexander Wilson DipRSAMD

Julius Drake FRAM

Louise Winter GRNCM, PPRNCM

David Owen Norris (Professor of Musical Performance, University of Southampton)

Tutor in English Song Barbara Robotham ARMCM, FRMCM, FRNCM

Anthony Spiri (Professor of Piano Chamber Music, Musikhochschule Cologne)

Tutors in French Song Lynne Dawson MIL

Tutor in Dalcroze Eurhythmics Karin Greenhead Dip. Sup. et Prix, Institut Jaques-Dalcroze, GenĂ¨ve, Suisse, GRSM, ARCM Tutors in Historical Performance Terence Charlston Roger Hamilton

Ann Taylor GRNCM, PPRNCM, ALCM

Tutor in Lieder Studies Thomas Schulze Tutor in Oratorio Mark Rowlinson MA, ARAM Tutors in Operatic Repertory Patricia MacMahon LRAM, ARCM, FRSAMD Martin Pickard (Opera North)

Roger Vignoles

Henry Herford MA, ARNCM, GRNCM

Principal Study Tutors David Maxwell Anderson BA, DipRCM, PGDip

Tutors in Italian Song Susan Roper BA, Magister Linguae (Florence), PGDipRNCM

Lynne Dawson MIL

Antonia Sotgiu GRNCM

Sandra Dugdale AGSM

Peter Alexander Wilson DipRSAMD

Colin Iveson GLOC

Tutors in Opera and Dramatic Interpretation Derek Clark (Scottish Opera) Alexander Crowe MA, LRAM, FRNCM Paul Wynne Griffiths (Royal Opera House) Stefan Janski LRAM, LUD, DipNCSD, FRNCM, FHEA

57 Recent highlights Tutor in Vocal Health Frances Ascott BSc(Hons), MRCSLT

Kathryn Rudge (right) as Cherubino in the ENO’s production of The Marriage of Figaro © Sarah Lee

Tutor in Vocal Mechanics Stuart MacIntyre BA, FTCL, LLCM Music Staff Alexander Crowe MA, LRAM, FRNCM Robin Humphreys BMus, PPRNCM Russell Medley GRNCM, ARNCM Tutor in Movement and Dance Bethan Rhys Wiliam CertEd, Practitioner NLP Tutors in Language Studies Frédérique Guéry BA, MRES, MCIL, NRPSI Jarmila Hickman BA, MA Dr Beate Peter BA, PhD, FHEA, PGCE, CELTA Antonio Tilli Dottore in Lettere Moderne (Chieti) Visiting Tutors Isobel Flinn Audrey Hyland Mary King FRNCM Mark Shanahan Rosemary Walton For sound clips, staff biographies and up-to-date information and news, visit www.rncm.ac.uk/vocalstudies

• The RNCM announced an exciting new partnership with Opera North aimed at nurturing and inspiring young musical talent. The partnership will provide professional development opportunities, hands-on experience of auditions, mentoring from Opera North artists, and engagement with the company’s performance programme for RNCM singers, instrumentalists and composers. Patrons of the new scheme are acclaimed opera singers Sir Willard White, Joan Rodgers CBE, Sir John Tomlinson and Alice Coote. • Lynne Dawson was appointed Head of the School of Vocal Studies at the RNCM in September 2010. Lynne is established as one of Britain’s most versatile and popular sopranos, and has worked worldwide with Symphony Orchestras and worldrenowned conductors, with more than 80 recordings in her personal discography • Mezzo-soprano Kathryn Rudge has just completed the RNCM Postgraduate International Artist Diploma course, and recently received wonderful reviews for her performance as Cherubino in English National Opera’s production of Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro, and for Sextus in Opera North’s production of Handel’s Julius Caesar

58 We will develop your solo, ensemble and chamber music skills through first-class tuition and by giving you the widest possible range of performance opportunities.

Wind, Brass and Percussion Principal Study available in Flute Oboe Clarinet Bassoon Saxophone French Horn Trumpet Trombone Tuba Cornet* Tenor Horn Baritone Horn Euphonium Percussion / Timpani Doubling instruments may be the focus of students’ Principal Study at Postgraduate level only. * incorporating optional soprano cornet and flugel horn

At the RNCM, the range of repertoire you will experience is broad. Whilst we place a strong emphasis on the performance of new music, and collaborate closely with students and staff in the School of Composition, we nurture the established traditions of European wind, brass and percussion playing, including orchestras, other large ensembles, chamber music, historical performance and Jazz. You will work with our international tutors, visiting tutors, and guest artists, who will lead masterclasses and workshops in their specialist areas. Our students have recently worked with high-profile musicians including oboists Alex Klein and François Leleux; horn players Richard Watkins and Delphine Gaultier; trumpeters Kristian Steenstrup and Uwe Komischke; trombonists John Kenny and Miguel Tantos; flautist and composer Barbara Thompson; saxophonists Otis Murphy and John Harle; percussionists Pedro Carneiro and Dame Evelyn Glennie; clarinettists Maximiliano Martin and Eric Mandat; bassoonists Sergio Azzolini and Yoshiyuki Ishikawa; and flautists Richard Craig and Sir James Galway.

You will be offered a wide range of performance opportunities from the beginning of your studies. These will include solo recitals, masterclasses, RNCM orchestras, wind, brass and percussion ensembles, Brass Band, New Ensemble, Big Band, chamber music and competitions. Students also perform in specialist public focus days which include the Festival of Brass, Wind Weekend, Saxophone Day and Day of Percussion. We also offer the opportunity to audition for placements with the world-class BBC Philharmonic and Hallé Orchestras and the Black Dyke Band through our Professional Experience Schemes. Successful students work with the orchestra/ band and receive mentoring support from professional players. The College has also recently agreed a professional relationship with the Mahler Chamber Orchestra in Europe. During your time at the College, you may also apply for external engagements. These opportunities range from background music with a chamber group through to fullevening solo recitals.

59 Getting in touch Admissions/audition enquiries: admissions@rncm.ac.uk Wind, Brass and Percussion course enquiries: suzy.stonefield@rncm.ac.uk

Wind, Brass and Percussion

Principal Study Throughout your degree you will receive individual tuition each week. You will also benefit from lessons on a doubling, associated, or Jazz instrument. Students electing to undertake such studies may offer performance on these instruments and/or improvisation as part of their programme of assessments. The School owns a comprehensive range of doubling and historical instruments which students may borrow. Typically, wind and brass students have one Principal Study teacher and, when appropriate, a second tutor for doubling skills. In certain cases, further subdivision of teaching may be requested. Most saxophone students learn with three tutors, and percussion students learn with all five tutors.

‘‘

You will also have weekly instrumentspecific classes, which will be taken by all teachers of your instrument in rotation. These cover a wide range of subjects from orchestral extracts, scales and reading techniques through to cadenza writing and contemporary techniques. Progress is evaluated through mid-year assessments which take place in Years 1, 2 and 3, an audition assessment in Year 4, and an end-of-year recital in each year of study.

At the end of my first year I was selected to be Principal Flute of the RNCM Symphony Orchestra. This was such a great experience as the concert was at the Bridgewater Hall, and working with Yan Pascal Tortelier was so inspiring. The RNCM offers a great platform for students to have performance opportunities and the external engagements team have set up many concerts and regular work for my trio. We have had a lot of support and coaching from great RNCM tutors and high-profile guest tutors. Sarah Bennett, 2nd year flautist, BMus, member of the Tempest Trio – RNCM Chamber Ensemble of the Year 2011

‘‘

Undergraduate Programme The undergraduate degree programme consists of Principal Study and many related performance activities, such as chamber music, orchestral auditions and creative leadership skills. Practical activity is placed into context in Academic Studies, professional skills training, and work-related learning.

In Years 3 and 4 you will select a work-related learning placement, including gaining teaching experience, taking part in outreach projects, participating in Music for Health, or arts administration. You will also have the opportunity to work with experienced professionals including our professional partners such as the BBC Philharmonic, Hallé, RLPO, Manchester Camerata and our own RNCM Performance and Programming Team. You will also select specialised performance activities to enhance the range of profession-orientated skills in your professional portfolio. Options include wind/band audition, advanced jazz improvisation, directed ensembles, and Professional Experience Schemes.

Recent highlights Tempest Flute Trio

• The College’s Wind Orchestra, one of the most widelyrespected wind orchestras in the world, has released more than 30 commercial CDs, and is often heard on BBC Radio 3. The Orchestra was the first conservatoire ensemble to be invited to perform at the BBC Proms, and has performed at festivals such as Aldeburgh, Cheltenham and Huddersfield, as well as at festivals in Holland, Japan, Switzerland and Poland. More recently, the Orchestra performed at the World Association of Symphonic Bands & Ensembles Conference in Cincinnati, Ohio, USA, and gave the UK première of Stockhausen’s choreographed Lucifer’s Dance at the RNCM, followed by a performance at the Royal Festival Hall •H igh-profile appointments for alumni included Stephanie Jones, Fourth Horn with the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra; Andrew Nicholson, Principal Flute with the West Australian Symphony Orchestra; Richard Brown, Principal Trombone with the BBC Philharmonic; Tom Verity, Principal E flat Clarinet with Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra; Xiaodi Liu, Acting Associate Principal Oboe with the Houston Symphony Orchestra; Luke Whitehead, contrabassoon with the Philharmonia; Zhe Chen, clarinet with the Dun Shan Wind Orchestra in Beijing; Ben Thomson, tuba with the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra; Joao Mogo, trumpet with the Algarve Symphony Orchestra; and Russell Jackson, Principal Trumpet with South Bank Sinfonia • Student successes have recently included 4th year saxophonist Jennifer Palfreyman winning the CASS Young Soloist Competition; 4th year percussionist Le Yu winning the under-23 category in the Percussion Arts Society of Italy’s International Competition; 1st year flautist Maria Chybowska reaching the finals of the Cimarosa Competition in Italy; saxophonist Amy Roberts voted Rising Star at the British Jazz Awards 2011; and Tempest Flute Trio (Helen Wilson, Holly Melia, Sarah Bennett) signing a record deal with the Nonclassical Label.

62 Staff Head of School Dr Paul Goodey BMus, MMus, DMus, DipRCM Deputy Head of School and Director of Brass Studies Professor John Miller MA, FGSM, FRNCM Director of Percussion Studies Simone Rebello GMusRNCM, PPRNCM International Chair in Brass Studies Håkan Hardenberger International Chair in Saxophone Vincent David International Chair in Woodwind Studies Hansjörg Schellenberger

Wind, Brass and Percussion

International Tutor in Percussion Birger Sulsbrück

Dr Paul Goodey BMus, MMus, DMus, DipRCM

Consultant in Woodwind Studies Melinda Maxwell BA, HonARAM, LTCL, ARCM

Melinda Maxwell BA, ARCM, LTCL, HonARAM

Senior Tutor in RNCM Brass Band Dr Nicholas Childs DMA, MA, FLCM, ARCM Musical Director of RNCM Big Band & Jazz Collective Mike Hall BSc, PGDipRNCM Visiting Tutor in Flute Peter Lloyd FRNCM, FGSM, ARCM Tutors in Flute Katherine Baker BMus, DipRAM, ARAM, FRAM Wissam Boustany PPRNCM

International Tutor in Flute Anders Ljungar-Chapelon

Richard Davis MMus

International Tutor in Clarinet Reiner Wehle

Laura Jellicoe GMusRNCM, PPRNCM

International Tutor in Bassoon Stefano Canuti

Linda Verrier PPRNCM

International Tutor in French Horn Frøydis Ree Wekre International Tutor in Trombone Chris Houlding International Tutor in Jazz Trombone Jiggs Whigham International Tutor in Tuba Jens Bjørn-Larsen

Tutor in Piccolo and Alto Flute Joanne Boddington BMus, ARCM Tutor in Baroque Flute and Ecosonics Dr Stephen Preston AGSM, PhD

Hugh McKenna LRAM, ARCM, ARAM Jonathan Small ARCM Valerie Taylor ARAM, LRAM, ARCM Tutors in Cor Anglais Thomas Davey BMus, MMus, ARAM Rachael Pankhurst BMus, GRNCM, PPRNCM, LRSM Tutor in Baroque Oboe Anthony Robson FRAM Tutors in Clarinet John Bradbury MA, ARAM Nicholas Cox MA, SolDip (Musikhochschule Hannover) Professor Linda Merrick GRSM, MMus, PhD, FRNCM, ARAM, LRAM, FLCM, FRSA, FHEA, HonVCM Antonio Salguero Montesinos Premio Extraordinario de Honor Fin de Carrera Christopher Swann GRSM, LRAM

Tutor in Jazz Flute Rowland Sutherland AGSM

Tutors in E Flat Clarinet Mandy Burvill

Associate Tutor in Flute Noemi Gyori

Christopher Swann GRSM, LRAM

Tutors in Oboe Jennifer Galloway GMusRNCM, PPRNCM

Tutors in Bass Clarinet Colin Pownall ARCM Sarah Watts BMus(Hons) LRAM, Tweede Fase (Rotterdam Conservatorium)

63 Tutor in Early Clarinet Dr Lesley Schatzberger BA(Hons), ARCM, DUniv Tutors in Bassoon and Contrabassoon Bill Anderson ARAM, LRAM

Tutors in Trumpet John Dickinson Murray Greig GMusRNCM, MMus, PPRNCM Professor John Miller MA, FGSM, FRNCM

David Chatwin ARCM Rhys Owens DipRCM

Tutor in Sackbutt and Classical Trombone Susan Addison ARCM(Hons), HonRAM, HonLRAM Tutors in Tuba Ewan Easton MBE Robin Haggart BMus, LRAM, ARAM

Simon Durnford ARCM Lawrence Perkins GRNCM

Tracey Redfern BMus, PPRNCM, PGDipRNCM

Graham Salvage ARAM, LRAM, ARCM

Gareth Small GRSM, ARAM, LRAM, LTCL

Peter Wesley BA, ARCM, DipRCM(Perf)

Visiting Tutor in Trumpet Mark O’Keefe DipCSM, ALCM, LTCL, FTCL, PPRNCM, MMus

Tutors in Saxophone Julian Argüelles Robert Buckland GRNCM, PPRNCM, FRNCM

Brian Kingsley ARCM Leslie Neish BMus(Hons), PGDip, PPRNCM Tutors in Euphonium and Baritone Horn Steven Mead BA, ALCM, FRNCM David Thornton BA, PPRNCM

Tutor in Jazz Trumpet Steve Waterman GTCL, HonARAM Tutor in Natural Trumpet David Hendry GRNCM, PGDipRCM

Tutor in Tenor Horn Leslie Howie BMus(Hons), PGCE Sheona White BA(Hons), PGCE

Carl Raven BMus, PPRNCM Andy Scott GRNCM Tutor in Jazz Saxophone and Improvisation Mike Hall BSc, PGDipRNCM Tutors in French Horn Lizzie Davis AGSM Rebecca Goldberg GRNCM, PPRNCM, PGDipRNCM Timothy Jackson

Tutors in Cornet Richard Marshall BA, LRSM Dr Roger Webster MMus, PhD

David Hassell HonARAM Visiting Tutor in Cornet Mark Wilkinson

Paul Patrick LRAM, ARAM

Tutors in Trombone Simon Cowen BMus

Simone Rebello GMusRNCM, PPRNCM

Roger Cutts AGSM

Andrea Vogler BMus(Hons), PGDipRNCM

Robert Holliday GRNCM, PPRNCM

Julian Plummer GRNCM, PPRNCM Lindsey Stoker GMusRNCM, PPRNCM Visiting Tutor in French Horn Jonathan Goodall ARMCM

Tutors in Percussion Elizabeth Gilliver GMusRNCM, PPRNCM

Tutor in Bass Trombone Adrian Morris PPRNCM Visiting Tutor in Trombone Mark Frost

Tutor in Timpani Ian Wright FRNCM For sound clips, staff biographies and up-to-date information and news, visit the School of Wind, Brass and Percussion pages of the RNCM website www.rncm.ac.uk/ windbrasspercussion

RNCM Graduate School If you decide to continue your studies at postgraduate level, the RNCM‘s Graduate School offers a superb environment to pursue advanced musical studies in performance, conducting or composition, and to carry out research in musicology, music psychology, composition and performance. A wide range of innovative courses are available to train instrumentalists, singers, composers and conductors to a fully professional level. Flexibility is the key, and you will be given the opportunity to follow a range of specialist pathways as a soloist, orchestral musician, chamber musician, accompanist, or conductor, or to create a bespoke programme of study.

Qualifications include: • Postgraduate Diploma • Master of Music • Master of Performance • Master of Philosophy • Doctor of Philosophy • RNCM Postgraduate International Artist Diploma (solo performance, chamber music, opera studies) • Junior Fellowship in Conducting • Hallé/RNCM String Leadership Diploma • Postgraduate Diploma in Performing Arts Leadership (ARTIS) • PGCE in Music with Specialist Instrumental Teaching

Find out more at www.rncm.ac.uk

Full details of The Graduate School courses can be found on the RNCM website www.rncm.ac.uk/graduateschool

66 Library

The RNCM Library has a wide range of materials to support learning, research and performance, and is a key resource for all areas of your degree programme. You will have access to over 90,000 catalogued items of books and printed music, and 90 current journal titles, together with a reserve stock collection of some 5,000 items, including a number of complete and collected editions, and a substantial collection of parts for orchestra, wind band and jazz band. Audio visual materials include commercial videos, television broadcast recordings, and an extensive archive of College performances. The Library also offers online access to e-books, databases, selected journals and audio-visual streaming services.

Within the Library you will have access to PCs with music software as well as standard programs, listening stations and a viewing room. Our knowledgeable Library staff have vast musical expertise and will help you make the best use of the resources. RNCM students also have access to other academic libraries both in the North West and further afield for reference purposes.

Archives & Special Collections You will be encouraged to make use of the Libraryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Archives and Special Collections. The RNCM Archives are of international significance and include the papers of individuals with connections to the RNCM and its predecessors, including the correspondence of Sir Charles HallĂŠ with EJ Broadfield, Gustav Behrens and others; the compositions of Arthur Butterworth, Arnold Cooke, John Golland, John Ogdon, Thomas Pitfield and Alan Rawsthorne; and the performing archive of the Philip Jones Brass Ensemble. The College Archivist is on hand to offer any advice. The RNCM Collection of Historic Musical Instruments, consisting of over 300 instruments, some in playing condition, is open to all RNCM students and staff by appointment. The Collection includes violins by Stradivarius and Guarnerius, and wind instruments from the 18th and early 19th centuries.

67 Student Support The RNCM has a strong community of staff and students and excellent services to support you through your studies.

Welfare, counselling and financial guidance Our dedicated Student Services Team are your first point of contact if you need advice or guidance on anything from welfare to student finance, both before you join us, and during your time at College. We also offer a free and confidential counselling service for RNCM students to discuss any personal concerns.

IT support In addition to PCs in the Library, there is an IT Studio and Wi-Fi hotspots throughout the College. The College uses the web-based application Moodle to support teaching and research. It is also used as a communication tool for students and staff to promote College events, news and activities. Help for students with disabilities If you have a disability the RNCM will offer you support from the audition stage onwards. A copy of the Collegeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Disability Statement is available online at www.rncm.ac.uk If you would like to discuss any of your needs, email our Student Support and Welfare Administrator at welfare@rncm.ac.uk.

Find out more at www.rncm.ac.uk

Alexander Technique One-off or regular weekly Alexander Technique classes are available for a small charge. The Alexander Technique is a tried and tested approach for improving personal performance and avoiding undue physical effort or stress. Chaplaincy The College chaplains are available for confidential consultation on personal matters. There is also a chaplain specifically for international students and speakers of Mandarin Chinese. For more details visit www.stpeters.org.uk Find out more at www.rncm.ac.uk/studentsupport.

68 Fees and financial support The RNCM charges tuition fees to all students for each year of study. Fees for all UK and EU undergraduate students are regulated by the UK Government.

Government changes to the system of funding English colleges and universities will come into effect from September 2012. In response, the RNCM will set tuition fees for UK and European Union undergraduate students at £9,000. Financial support may be available to you through scholarships and bursaries, details of which can be found on page 70.

Tuition Fee Status To determine the status of students for fees purposes, the RNCM follows regulations issued by the UK Government. Broadly, in order to qualify for UK and EU status you must have lived continuously in the UK or other EU country for purposes other than full-time education for at least three years prior to September in the year in which the course starts. If you do not qualify for UK and EU status, you will be enrolled as an international student.

Undergraduate Tuition Fees per year* *2013-14 fees are to be confirmed; 2012-13 fees are provided for reference

UK and EU students

£9,000

Fees for International and Isle of Man/Channel Island students Undergraduate (except vocal students): £15,400 Undergraduate (vocal students): £16,100

Equivalent and lower qualifications According to UK Government policy, UK and EU students who are studying for a qualification which is at a level equivalent to, or lower than, a qualification which they have already gained, are not eligible for funding from the Higher Education Funding Council. You may therefore be charged the full international student tuition fee for your course of study.

Financial support for UK students UK students may be eligible for the following support: • Student loan to cover tuition fees in full • Student loan or maintenance loan to help with accommodation and living costs • For UK and EU students receiving a fee loan there is no payment of a fee to the College, the loan is paid back through the tax system after graduation • Maintenance Grant or Special Support Grant which is assessed on a sliding scale dependent upon household income. The Maintenance Grant may reduce the entitlement to the repayable maintenance loan. The Special Support Grant is available to students in receipt of meanstested benefits and is assessed on the same basis as the Maintenance Grant, except that it does not reduce the entitlement to the maintenance loan • Possibility of support from the Access to Learning Fund for those with very limited means, or for students who experience unplanned financial difficulties

• UK students with disabilities can also apply for Disabled Students Allowance for some types of condition • EU students can apply for a fee loan to cover fees in full Please visit www.direct.gov.uk/ studentfinance to access further information on financial support for students. Financial support for international students There are a number of organisations to which international students can apply for financial support. A good place to start is the ‘Funding your studies’ section of the British Council website www.britishcouncil.org

Find out more at www.rncm.ac.uk

Payment of tuition fees Tuition fees are payable prior to registration at the start of the academic year. For UK and EU students the fee will normally be paid directly through the Student Loans Company/Student Awards Agency for Scotland. You will need to provide proof of this at enrolment. For students paying fees themselves, it may be possible to pay by instalments. Students from outside the UK must pay fees in the UK pounds. Any bank charges incurred must be paid by the student.

RNCM Scholarships

RNCM Bursaries

National Scholarship Programme

A number of Scholarship Awards are offered to applicants who demonstrate outstanding ability and potential at audition. You can find out more about scholarships on our website www.rncm.ac.uk/ scholarships. In addition:

UK and EU undergraduate students The RNCM may provide bursaries of up to £1,160 (based on 2012/13 figures) according to individual students’ financial circumstances. Full details can be found on our website www.rncm.ac.uk/scholarships

The College has a limited number of fee reduction bursaries to offer to undergraduate students resident in England only, under the Government’s new National Scholarship Programme.

ABRSM Home Scholarships Each year the RNCM nominates one outstanding undergraduate applicant for an ABRSM Scholarship. The award, for UK students only, is for the duration of the undergraduate course. ABRSM EU Scholarships Each year the RNCM nominates one outstanding undergraduate applicant for an ABRSM Scholarship. The award for EU (non-UK) students only is for the duration of the undergraduate course. ABRSM Overseas Scholarships Each year the RNCM nominates one outstanding undergraduate applicant for an ABRSM Scholarship. The award, for non-EU students only, is for the duration of the course and covers full fees and part maintenance.

International students International applicants to the RNCM may apply for bursaries towards the cost of fees and maintenance. These awards are limited in number and are allocated on the basis of need and merit. In return, students are expected to undertake directed activities for the benefit of the College.

Further information about the National Scholarship Programme is available on our website www.rncm.ac.uk/scholarships Further enquiries Student Finance Manager studentfinance@rncm.ac.uk

71 How to apply

Before you apply You can find out more about the RNCM student experience by visiting our website www.rncm.ac.uk for up-to-date information about your course, the latest RNCM news, and podcasts about our exciting performance programme. You can also come to one of our Open Days, which are the perfect opportunity to make an informal visit to the RNCM. During our Open Day you can tour the College and the Halls of Residence, meet current students and members of the tutorial staff, attend a concert, observe some of the School activities, and talk to support services staff. Open Days usually take place twice a year.

Advice Audition If you want to get a better idea of whether the RNCM is the right place for you, you can come along for an Advice Audition. These auditions cost £50 (based on 2011/12 figures) and usually take place between January and June by appointment only. £20 of the Advice Audition fee will be refunded if you apply for an entry audition within 12 months. Enquiries should be directed to Admissions: admissions@rncm.ac.uk

The Open Day for 2013 entry applicants will take place on 25 September 2012. You can find out more about Open Days and reserve your place on our website www.rncm.ac.uk/openday.

Find out more at www.rncm.ac.uk

Entry requirements BMus(Hons) 4-year FT CUKAS code: 300F • A successful audition in the year prior to entry demonstrating a high standard of performance (composition ability for composers) and potential, of at least ABRSM Grade 8 standard. For full audition requirements please visit www.rncm.ac.uk • At least 18 years of age on 31 December in the year of entry • Passes at GCE A level (A2) in two subjects at grade E or above, normally including music, and passes in three different subjects at GCSE level (grades A*-C) or equivalents • Candidates with Scottish, Irish or other equivalent qualifications should contact Admissions at admissions@rncm.ac.uk or on +44 (0) 161 907 5260

72 BMus(Hons) 3-year intensive pathway* * applicants for the 3-year pathway should apply for the standard 4-year BMus(Hons) on CUKAS As well as meeting the standard requirements for the BMus(Hons), entrants to the three-year BMus(Hons) must meet the following additional requirements: • Passes at GCE A level (or equivalent) at grade A or A* in at least three different subjects, normally including Music (i.e. AAA at A2) • Pass in the Diploma in Music Performance of the ABRSM (DipABRSM), or a Level 4 equivalent, normally in the Principal Study instrument, to have been achieved by 30 April prior to the year of entry GRNCM/MusB(Hons) 4-year full-time CUKAS code: 399F Entrance is highly competitive and applicants will normally demonstrate a record of practical and academic excellence. Applicants are expected to achieve the following minimum requirements for consideration for entry to the GRNCM programme: • A successful audition by RNCM staff in the year prior to entry demonstrating a high standard of performance/composition ability and potential, of at least ABRSM Grade 8 pass • Normally be 18 years of age by 31 December in the year of entry • A successful interview by The University of Manchester • Meet the detailed academic and language entry requirements of The University of Manchester MusB (AAA at GCE A Level including Music, ABRSM grade 8 pass as at September 2012)

BA(Hons) Popular Music Performance 3-year full-time CUKAS code: 201F · A high level of performing ability – equivalent to ABRSM/ Rockschool/Trinity grade 8 · At least 18 years of age on 31 December in the year of entry · Passes at GCE A level (A2) in 2 subjects, or a Rockschool Level 3 Music Practitioner qualification, or a National Diploma in a music related subject, or international equivalent · 4 passes (A*–C) at GCSE including Maths and English · Pass at ABRSM Grade 5 theory · Candidates with Scottish, Irish or other equivalent qualifications should contact Admissions on +44 (0) 161 907 5260 · For full audition information and requirements please visit www.rncm.ac.uk and www.accesstomusic.co.uk English Language requirements For entrants who have not completed a course of GCE A levels, or who are not from a UK Border Agency (UKBA) designated majorityEnglish speaking country, an English Language requirement has to be fulfilled, normally by 1 April in the year prior to entry. This will be a qualification recognised as equivalent to CEFR B2, e.g. IELTS 5.5 with no less than 5.5 in any skill. The Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) provides a basis for the mutual recognition of language qualifications. For a definition of accepted English Language qualifications under the CEFR, please visit the UK Border Agency website www.ukba. homeoffice.gov.uk/sitecontent/ applicationforms/new-approvedenglish-tests.pdf

Completing your application Your application will be made through the Conservatoires UK Admission Services (CUKAS) website www.cukas.ac.uk. When completing your online application you will need the following information: • the RNCM institution code R57 • course codes which can be found on the relevant programme pages 25– 35, and on the CUKAS website By completing your application via the CUKAS system you will be able to easily track the progress of your application, pay your audition fee, accept offers and confirm decisions online from anywhere in the world. The deadline for UK/EU applications for 2013 entry is 1 October 2012. For international applicants see page 74. Late applications may be considered subject to the availability of places.

Auditions Audition fees For most courses you will need to pay an audition fee online through the CUKAS website. Fees are as follows: BMus(Hons) (single instrument)

£55

GRNCM/MusB(Hons)

£55

BA(Hons) Popular Music £55 Performance Late applicants will be charged an additional fee of £10 The audition experience Auditions usually take place in December, though some international candidates’ auditions may be held later in the year. You will be notified of your audition date via the CUKAS Track System at www.cukas.ac.uk The audition is a competitive process and demand for places is very high. The minimum standard is Grade 8, but a higher level may be needed to be successful.

The format of auditions will vary according to Principal Study School, but generally you will be expected to prepare, in advance, up to three pieces contrasting in both period and style. An accompanist will be provided as appropriate. For full details of audition requirements visit the How to Apply pages on our website. The audition itself will last between 10 and 45 minutes, depending on instrument, and will usually include performance of your prepared pieces, a sight-reading test and an interview about your aspirations and musical interests. The panel will be looking for your potential at audition, not a completed artist. You should think about engaging the panel by keeping your performance fresh, with a wide range of mood and colour in your playing; and showing an understanding of today’s music profession. If you have a disability for which special provision may be needed before or during your audition, please contact Admissions at admissions@rncm.ac.uk

Find out more at www.rncm.ac.uk

Assessment of academic ability You will also be assessed on your ability to successfully complete the academic requirements of the course primarily on the basis of your educational record and academic references. Some applicants may be asked to provide recent authenticated examples of their own work in history of music and theory, or take a short written test, or both. At least two weeks’ notice will be given in such cases. Notification of audition results You will receive notification of the result of your audition via the CUKAS website by the end of December 2012. If you are offered a guaranteed place, you will also receive an offer letter by post. If you are successful at audition and offered a place you are advised to confirm acceptance by 31 January 2013. Useful contacts: Admissions/audition enquiries: admissions@rncm.ac.uk Open Day enquiries: opendays@rncm.ac.uk

74 International applicants

We accept applications from international students throughout the year. However, we would recommend that you submit your application by 1 October 2012 for entry in September 2013. You will need to apply via the Conservatoires UK Admissions Service (CUKAS) website www.cukas.ac.uk. If you have any problems applying via CUKAS or need any additional support when completing your application, you should contact the International Admissions Administrator at international@rncm.ac.uk

Entry requirements • A successful audition in the year prior to entry demonstrating a high standard of performance (composition ability for composers) and potential • At least 18 years of age on 31 December in year of entry • The potential and ability to successfully complete the RNCM course • Passes at GCE A level (A2) in two subjects at grade E or above, normally including music, and passes in three different subjects at GCSE level (grades A*-C) or equivalents, or for applicants with international qualifications, successful completion of university entry level education • All teaching at the RNCM is carried out in English and you need to have sufficient fluency in both written and spoken English. You will require proficiency in English as follows:

BMus(Hons) IELTS 5.5 or equivalent in each and every component (or CEFR B2). GRNCM/MusB(Hons) IELTS 7.0 or equivalent, with at least 5.5 in each and every component. Please check The University of Manchester prospectus for further details. You will need to provide proof of your IELTS score or equivalent before 1 April 2013 • Confirmation that you have adequate funding to cover course fees and living expenses

Auditions If you are unable to audition in person you will need to send an authenticated good quality recording of your audition pieces. Asia auditions Each year, the RNCM holds overseas auditions in selected countries. You can access details of the audition dates and venues on our website. Applications and further details can also be obtained via our international agents: China Professor Song Yi songyi783@hotmail.com tel: +86 13911212507 and +86 15901066228 Korea Ms Seungsil Chang korea@rncm.ac.uk tel: +82 2 518 5133

Pre-sessional English language course If English is not your first language, we can provide you with further support through our pre-sessional English course. The course is aimed at students who have received an offer of a place to study at the RNCM but whose level of language falls marginally below the entry requirements for their course. The course starts in late July and lasts for six weeks. It will improve your listening, speaking, reading and writing skills. The course also provides an introduction to the UK and British culture. The entry requirement for this pre-sessional course for the BMus(Hons) is IELTS 5.0 or equivalent with no component below CEFR B1, as specified by the UK Border Agency.

Find out more at www.rncm.ac.uk

Useful contacts: Admissions/audition enquiries: international@rncm.ac.uk International Office: international@rncm.ac.uk Visa advice and information: www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/ visas-immigration/studying www.ukcisa.org.uk/student/ immigration.php Where to apply Applications for our programmes are made via the Conservatoires UK Admissions Service (CUKAS) website www.cukas.ac.uk. The RNCM CUKAS institution code is: R57

76 Key dates and contacts Important dates CUKAS applications open* Mid-June 2012

Term dates 2013/14 International Induction 11–13 September 2013

Patron Her Majesty the Queen

Open Day 25 September 2012

Induction Week 16 September – 22 September 2013

President Sir Willard White CBE, OM (Jamaica)

CUKAS applications deadline* 1 October 2012

Autumn Term 23 September – 15 December 2013

Auditions* December 2012

Spring Term 6 January – 30 March 2014

Preview Day for offer holders 15 January 2013

Mid Year Recess 17 February – 23 February 2014

* International students may apply and be auditioned at other times of the year.

Summer Term 22 April – 6 July 2014 Useful contacts Admissions Office: admissions@rncm.ac.uk Tel: +44 (0)161 907 5260 International Office: international@rncm.ac.uk Tel: +44 (0)161 907 5337

Principal Professor Jonty Stockdale BA(Hons), DPhil, FLCM Vice-Principal Professor Linda Merrick GRSM(Hons), MMus, PhD, FRNCM, ARAM, LRAM, FLCM, FRSA, FHEA, HonVCM Dean of Academic Studies Dr Martin Harlow BA, MPhil, PhD, Dip.NCOS, FRNCM, ARCM Dean of Performance Studies Professor Malcolm Layfield DipRSAMD, FRNCM Dean of Research & Enterprise Professor Richard Wistreich MA, MA Music, PhD

77 How to find the RNCM Manchester is located at the heart of the UK, and is easily accessible by air, road and rail. The city is at the centre of a busy motorway and rail network, and is home to a major airport, Manchester International Airport, which serves around 200 destinations worldwide.

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The RNCM is situated just 1 mile (1.6km) south of the city centre, and is a bus or tram ride away from Manchester International Airport, and Piccadilly, Victoria and Oxford Road train stations.

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Tel: +44 (0)161 907 5200 Fax: +44 (0)161 273 7611 www.rncm.ac.uk

The RNCM is a Higher Education Corporation under the terms of the Education Reform Act 1988 and the Further and Higher Education Act 1992. It receives public funding from the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE). Freedom of Information and Data Protection Under the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act 2000 and also under the provisions of the Data Protection Act 1998, individuals have a general right of access to information that is held by the Royal Northern College of Music. The RNCM is committed to openness in relation to both its staff and students and also to the general public, and insofar as is possible, will provide an applicant with any information they may request.

Commitment to Equality and Diversity The RNCM is committed to eliminating discrimination and encouraging diversity as an employer, higher education provider and as a performance venue. Our aim is that where possible our organisation will be truly representative of all sections of society and each will feel respected. Our aim is to provide equality and fairness in all our activities and not to discriminate on the grounds of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, gender and sexual orientation. We oppose all forms of unlawful and unfair discrimination. Every effort is made to ensure that the information in this Prospectus is correct at the time of going to press. However, it is likely that changes will occur during the lifetime of this publication.

Photography by Paul Cliff, Anthony Redmond, Daniel Hopkinson, Phil Wood and Marketing Manchester. Printed by Belmont Press

Royal Northern College of Music 124 Oxford Road Manchester M13 9RD UK

Tel: +44 (0)161 907 5200 Fax: +44 (0)161 273 7611 www.rncm.ac.uk