Royal Northern College Of Music (RNCM)

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

Created from the collaborative efforts of the Northern School of Music and the Royal Manchester College of Music, the RNCM was created in 1972. The building itself, after many many *many* false starts over nearly 20 years opened in 1973.

The first principal was a chap called John Manduell. Its focus is on training professional musicians including composers, and now pop musicians. With its students it produces full orchestral concerts, fully staged operas and free weekly concerts.

The college also functions as a music and performance venue for the city.


Formed in 1972 the Northern School of Music (established 1920) and the Royal Manchester College of Music (established 1893) merged to create The Royal Northern College of Music. This rich heritage contributes to its established reputation within the music world.

The RNCM is a highly regarded conservatoire, meaning it's a specialised school dedicated to the study of music. This sets it apart from a general university with a music department.It offers rigorous training for aspiring professional musicians, composers, and conductors. The college provides both undergraduate and postgraduate programs, covering a wide range of musical disciplines. These include classical performance (strings, wind, brass, percussion, keyboard, vocal), composition, and popular music. It is divided into schools of specialisation, allowing for focused study. The RNCM is known for its high standard of teaching, and has received awards that reflect this.

The RNCM is not just a place of learning; it's also a significant performance venue. It hosts a diverse program of concerts, recitals, and operas, featuring both students and established professional artists. This provides valuable performance experience for students and enriches the cultural life of Manchester.

The RNCM is a leading institution that nurtures musical talent, contributes to the performing arts, and plays a vital role in the musical landscape of the UK.