Course summary

The Royal College of Music offers a diverse Masters programme with multiple study routes, which allow students to work towards the qualification most suited to their needs. Normally studied over two years, the MMus may also be studied on a fast-track basis over 12 months. The Master of Music (MMus) qualification develops students’ critical, analytical and research skills, as well as their ability to express themselves verbally to a high level. Such skills are particularly relevant for those who are interested in studying the background and context of the music they perform and analyse, and those who hope to teach or communicate about music beyond their principal study (for example as professional educators, facilitators or curators). This is in addition to continuing to develop students’ practical skills to a very high standard. The MMus can also provide the basis for further research through our Level 8 doctoral degrees. The Percussion Faculty currently boasts more than 40 former students in the UK’s leading orchestras. The backbone of our teaching has a clear orchestral bias, but today’s training covers all aspects of percussion activity, enabling you to enter the profession equipped with the musical tools of the trade. Percussion students at the Royal College of Music enjoy the benefits of a vibrant faculty housed in a purpose-built percussion suite. We have state-of-the-art technology and practice facilities for teaching world percussion alongside the orchestral repertoire. Percussion students have numerous opportunities to take part in public performances as soloists, in chamber groups and in the RCM’s various orchestras and ensembles. Orchestral performances are often directed by internationally renowned conductors, providing invaluable experience of truly world-class rehearsal and performance. The RCM is the first institution in the UK to offer solo Marimba as a principal study at postgraduate level. The course aims to prepare students for a career as a solo artist through intensive training in all aspects of solo performance, and also includes ensemble and chamber coaching and masterclasses with world-renowned marimbists. Due to the intensive nature of the programme, we are unable to offer a secondary specialism to percussionists.