Course summary

The Royal College of Music offers a diverse two-year Masters programme with multiple study routes, which allow students to work towards the qualification most suited to their needs. The Master of Music 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 brass faculty is an active community with an outstanding team of professors, many of whom hold principal positions in major orchestras. In addition to your one-to-one lessons you will attend regular classes and ensemble coaching. The faculty benefits from visiting professors of the highest quality and distinguished visiting international musicians give masterclasses each term. You will have the opportunity to perform in a wide variety of ensembles of various sizes and the RCM orchestras works with some of today’s greatest artists and international conductors. Jazz trumpet and jazz trombone are available as second or related study options to promising students. Brass players also have the opportunity to join the RCM Swing and Big Bands. Related study allows instrumentalists to receive tuition on an instrument closely associated with their principal study. Related studies are approved by the relevant Head of Faculty once a student has started their course. No audition is required and you do not need to let us know about your interest in related study before you arrive at the RCM. Second study allows students to receive tuition in a second specialism, taught and assessed at a lower intensity than their principal study, in an area that does not qualify for related study. Second study specialisms are subject to successful audition and the agreement of the relevant Head of Faculty. Auditions take place during the first few weeks of the course, and students will have the opportunity to register for these auditions shortly before the start of the academic year. There is no need to inform the RCM at the point of application. This course is also available on a part-time basis over 3 years upon request.