About Us

Founded in 1882, the Royal College of Music enjoys a reputation as one of the world's leading conservatoires, providing specialised musical education and professional training at the highest international level for performers, conductors and composers. Enabling students to develop musical skills, knowledge, understanding and resourcefulness which will enable them to contribute significantly to musical life in this country and internationally.

Since its foundation by the Prince of Wales, later Edward Vll, the College has been linked with the Royal family. Its patron is currently Her Majesty The Queen. For 40 years, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother was President; in 1993 HRH The Prince of Wales became President, Her Majesty The Queen Mother becoming President Emerita.

The College's influence on the development of music in the last 100 years is incalculable. Through its doors have passed some of the most distinguished and influential figures in British music history. The College's influence is not merely historical, however: it continues to grow, year by year attracting some of the finest talent of each generation.


Former students include:

Composers

Sir Arthur Bliss
Gustav Holst
Ralph Vaughan Williams
Benjamin Britten
Sir Michael Tippett

Lord Lloyd-Webber