One-to-one lessons
One-to-one lessons are at the very heart of every RCM student’s learning experience. The RCM’s impressive
list of professors includes renowned instrumental and vocal soloists, distinguished repertoire and
operatic coaches, prominent composers and conductors, plus principal players in major London orchestras
such as the as the London Symphony Orchestra, Philharmonia Orchestra, London Philharmonic Orchestra, BBC
Symphony Orchestra and Royal Opera House Orchestra. Our world-class professors offer students not only
first-rate teaching, but also mentorship and networking opportunities during their BMus course.
All principal studies for undergraduate music courses are delivered through a combination of one-to-one
tuition complemented by performance classes, workshops, masterclasses, lessons from visiting professors,
ensemble activities, seminars and lecture series as appropriate.
Study options
The majority of students focus on a single principal study instrument or specialism. Single study
students may want to pursue additional related or second study tuition alongside their principal
specialism, but this is not a requirement for the Bachelor of Music degree.
Single study: principal & related study
Related study allows instrumentalists to receive tuition on an instrument closely related to their
principal study, such as oboe and cor anglais, flute and piccolo or piano and harpsichord.
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.
Single study: principal & second study
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. Examples
include piano and violin, or trumpet and composition.
You will apply and be auditioned for your principal study specialism only. If your application is
successful you will be eligible to audition for second study when you start your BMus qualification at
the RCM.
Joint principal study
Students with an equally high level of ability in two areas may undertake joint principal study for their
degree in music, in which their two specialisms are taught and assessed with equal weight. This is a
demanding option, requiring a very high level of practical skill.
Due to the large number of scheduled vocal classes it is not possible for singers or percussionists to
undertake Joint Principal Study.
If you wish to undertake joint principal study you should submit only one application and select joint
principal study on your application form. You will be auditioned for and may be offered a place to study
two specialisms at equal intensity. Depending on your performance at audition, the RCM may decide to
offer a place on only one of the two principal studies.
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