nurturing potential ma orfrom minor to royal college of music, london · royal college of music,...

Royal College of Music, London

J U N I O R D E P A R T M E N TN U R T U R I N G P O T E N T I A L

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MA ORFROM MINOR TO

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MA ORFROM MINOR TO

WELCOME 1

OVERVIEW 3

PROGRAMME 6Individual Lessons 6Chamber Music 9Orchestra 9Musicianship 9Choir 10Alexander Technique 10Aural 10Performance 10Support & Assessment 12

SPECIAL PROGRAMMES 14Mini-Bass Course 14Visually Impaired Musicians Scheme 16

FEES & BURSARIES 18

HOW TO APPLY 20

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 22

HOW TO CONTACT US BACK PAGE

CONTENTS ★

RCM JD A5 Prospectus v3.qxd:Layout 1 12/12/08 13:01

O N E

WELCOMEThe Royal College of Music Junior Department is an environment of great

enthusiasm, opportunity and enjoyment. Come through our doors on a Saturday andyou find the whole place buzzing with the excitement of music making at a high

level. Hear our Symphony Orchestra and be energised by their exuberance; drop inon our Jazz Ensemble and let their relaxed groove inspire you; be motivated by thesound of individual lessons, ensembles and classes in every corner of the building.

Ours is a varied and vibrant atmosphere which we would like to share with you. If you want to make the most of your musical ability, we are here to help you.

We are committed to nurturing potential and offer a warm, creative yet disciplinedenvironment in which to do so. Enthusiasm, energy, focus, and dedication are

prominent features of our department in students and staff alike, so if this appeals toyou, read through the following brochure and find out more about how you could

be part of the Royal College of Music Junior Department.

Peter Hewitt | Director of the RCMJD

My time at the RCM Junior Department was a crucial part of my training as a young musician. I loved having the opportunity to make music at a high levelwith other young people and my collaboration with such fellow exhibitioners as

John Lill played a large part in shaping my musical future.

Julian Lloyd Webber | Cellist and former RCMJD student

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WELCOME★

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T W O

Agreat programme

run in anoutstandingway

Parent

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OVERVIEWNurturing Potential

Royal College of Music Junior Department (RCMJD) is a specialistterm-time only Saturday school offering advanced training tomusicians between the ages of 8 and 18. Students combinestudying at RCMJD with their general education at their chosenweek-day school. Students come together at the RCM Londoneach Saturday for a tailor-made programme of individualinstrument/voice/composition lessons, chamber music, orchestraland choral training, and general musicianship. Our staff areprofessional performers/composers as well as teachers and offerthe highest standards of tuition and coaching.

Who can apply?You can apply if you will be aged 8-17 in the September of the year you start, andshow above average musical ability for your years in classical or jazz styles. We’relooking for potential and commitment. Students travel to RCMJD from all over thecountry and at the end of a week of school a full Saturday at RCMJD can be hardwork. If you’re unsure as to whether this would suit you or not, why not come andexperience a day with us? Visit days can be arranged on term-time Saturdays fromNovember to February by contacting the RCMJD office.

OVERVIEW★

T H R E E


When is it?RCMJD operates between 9am and 5pm each Saturday during term time, though amore compact timetable may be available for our youngest students. There arethree terms, each of 10 teaching weeks, with a half-term break in each. We do ourbest to ensure that these terms correspond as closely as possible with the majorityof schools.

What is on offer?RCMJD offers an individually-tailored programme of one-to-oneinstrument/voice/composition lessons, chamber music, orchestra, choir and classmusicianship. Alexander Technique and aural classes are also available. Additionallythere are many performance and competition opportunities throughout the year,both internally and externally. Instrumental grade exams may be taken externally in consultation with teachers, and theory exams are an important part of themusicianship curriculum. Each element is discussed in more detail in the following pages.

F O U R

I have had so many opportunitiesand so much fun at Junior College and have made

friends for life in a really

supportive and constructive environmentStudent

“”


Where is it?RCMJD has exclusive use of the Royal College of Music each Saturday. The RCM islocated in South Kensington – a cultural hub of London. It is directly opposite theworld-famous Royal Albert Hall, adjacent to the Royal College of Art and ImperialCollege, London, and just moments away from the renowned museums of SouthKensington: the Natural History Museum, the Victoria & Albert Museum and theScience Museum. The RCM is one of 16 local cultural institutions which make thisarea a unique meeting point for the arts and sciences thatwelcomes people of all ages and backgrounds. For moreinformation see www.exhibitionroad.com

How do I apply?We demand energy, hard work and enthusiasmfrom all our students and staff. If you think you’vegot what it takes, apply by 1 March of the year inwhich you wish to start (entry in September only). Entry is competitive by audition. For more details see HOW TO APPLY on page 20.

Why should I apply?Studying at the highest level underinspirational teachers, and makingmusic with other young people ofsimilar age and ability gives ourstudents a breadth of musicalopportunity and understandingthat is unrivaled. Our bestambassadors are our students andparents – read their commentsthroughout this brochure to heartheir views. You can also come and visit us and talk to current students and parents.Visit days can be arranged on term-timeSaturdays from November to February bycontacting the RCMJD office.

F I V E

OVERVIEW★


PROGRAMMEIndividual Lessons

At the centre of the RCMJD curriculum is the first study (yourmain instrument, which may also be voice or composition), A second study is optional, and study of piano is encouraged but not essential. The default length for first study lessons is 45minutes, and 30 minutes for second study. Longer lessons areavailable at extra cost (see separate fees sheet). First study Jazzinstrumentalists are encouraged to support their studies withclassical tuition and musicianship.

S I X

Being able to interact, socialise with and work with other young musicians allowed me to

expand my musical knowledgeand enjoymenthugely and the

teaching I received fed my inspirationand

encouraged me to work hardto fulfil my musical aspirations

Student ”

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“PROGRAMME★

Our teachers, who include RCM professors andother distinguished musicians, are all highlyqualified and experienced leaders in their field (see enclosed list for details). Students are expected to devote a considerable amount of time each week to practice, as advised by teachers, in order to gain the best possible benefit from the tuition offered. If you learn with an RCMJD teacher, it is expectedthat they will be your only teacher, thoughparticipation in masterclasses and other one-offevents is encouraged after consultation withRCMJD teachers.

A third instrument is not normally recommended for reasons of time. However,harpsichord or organ for pianists, orchestralwind instruments for recorder players andsaxophone for clarinettists may be consideredsuitable. Composition may be a suitable third study, particularly for GCSE and AS/A2 level students, and class-taughtcomposition is also available as part ofmusicianship studies.

All elements of the curriculum as well asall written and spoken correspondenceare delivered in English. It is thereforeessential that all students and parents have a good grasp of both written andspoken English.

A simply

wonderful institution,

priceless staff, a hugely life-enhancingexperience for all the

fortunate students who attend

Parent ”


A warm,

supportive,and

inspiringplace to study

Student

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E I G H T


N I N E

Chamber Music (including Early Music & Jazz)

Chamber Music is regarded as a fundamental element in the training of youngmusicians in the RCMJD. We have over 70 chamber groups including the following:

★ String Quartets★ Piano Trios★ Piano Groups★ Violin Groups★ Cello Groups★ Bass Groups

★ Wind Quintets★ Wind Octet★ Clarinet Choir★ Recorder Ensemble★ Saxophone Ensemble★ Brass Ensemble

★ Brass Dectet★ Percussion Ensemble★ Harp Ensemble★ Guitar Ensemble★ Baroque Ensembles★ Jazz Ensembles

Groups meet for an hour or more each week and there are many performance andcoaching opportunities both inside and outside the college, including collaborationswith players from other London Junior Departments. We encourage our students,where appropriate, to take part in music making outside the RCMJD both locallyand nationally.

OrchestraThe RCMJD has five orchestras and places are allocated according to the student’sage, orchestral ability and progress. All orchestras have a team of tutors to assist infull rehearsals and sectionals. The orchestras are:

PROGRAMME★

MusicianshipAll students take part in weekly musicianship classes which help to increaseperception and knowledge of music and encourage creative responses to it. Theseclasses provide a thorough grounding in listening skills, aural, contextual awarenessand active performance, and they support all other elements of the curriculum. All students are required to take ABRSM Theory Grade 6 and afterwards maychoose to take classes in composition and improvisation or continue with highertheory grades. In addition, classes for Year 12 and 13 students are available to helpprepare for entrance to conservatoire and university music courses and to supportAS and A2 work at school.

★ Symphony Orchestra★ Chamber Orchestra★ Sinfonia

★ String Orchestra★ Symphonic Wind Orchestra


ChoirChoral singing is an integral part of the RCMJD curriculum for all. It develops auralawareness, vocal technique and general musical perception. The RCMJD has fivechoirs catering for varying ages, voices and abilities:

★ Chamber Choir ★ Mixed Choir ★ Girls’ Choir

Alexander TechniqueFree classes (taken in pairs and subject to timetabling) in Alexander Technique arealso available on Saturdays by special request and teacher recommendation. RCMJDhas two Alexander Technique teachers.

AuralFor those preparing for ABRSM exams grades 6-8 the RCMJD offers free Aural Testcoaching by request (subject to timetabling).

PerformanceEach week a Performers Platform provides opportunities for students to performsolo or ensemble works in front of an informal audience (accompanist provided).Experienced tutors give performance feedback as well as tips and techniques.Regular competitions, adjudicated by leading professionals in the music world,provide valuable experience and exposure for students who take part. Over 25regular concerts per year showcase the ongoing work of ourorchestras and ensembles including an annual SymphonyOrchestra concert at St John’s, Smith Square. Our musiciansare also regularly invited to perform outside the RCMJDfor special concerts and events.

PROGRAMME ★

★ Treble Choir★ Training Choir

T E N


E L E V E N

The junior department has

always been a joy to us. In particular, collecting the children at

the end of their sixth full day of the week and seeing how

alive and vibrantthey are as a result of a day spent

following a passion in likeminded company

Parent

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”


Support & AssessmentAt RCMJD we pride ourselves on the high level of individual care and support weoffer to our students and are always alert to each individual’s aims andachievements. In return we expect a high level of commitment and personalresponsibility from students and parents alike. All our staff are willing to help andadvise where necessary and a Director’s Surgery each Saturday ensures that thosewishing to discuss particular issues have the opportunity to do so. Students areassessed regularly and reports given twice each academic year. All Year 12 studentswill have a one-to-one interview with the Director to discuss their career plans andlife after RCMJD. Whilst many of our students go on to study music at universitiesand conservatoires both in the UK and abroad, a good number choose alternativecareers, and career support is always on hand.

PROGRAMME ★

We’re amazedat how you manage to treat such a

large number of

very diversechildren as

individuals!Parent

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”T W E LV E


T H I R T E E N

A big thank you to all the staff who have helped me to

grow,not just as a musician,

but as a person,during my four years at Junior Department

Student

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”


F O U R T E E N

SPECIAL PROGRAMMESMINI-BASS COURSE

The Mini-Bass course is our pioneering scheme for beginners agedbetween eight and ten. A fully-insured instrument is provided forpractice purposes at home. Established in 1985 in association withthe Yorke Trust, this exciting initiatitive allows students to learndouble bass on specially-designed instruments in individual lessonsand small groups. Tuition also encompases basic theory andensemble work. Most students will proceed to the RCMJD as fullmembers in due course.

Who can apply?Students are accepted from the age of eight (occasionally six or seven) on the basis of ashort and straightforward musical aptitude test, and must also show a keenness to learn.

What is on offer?Students are given a 30-minute individual lesson and will also take part in a 30-minutegroup session during which they study basic music theory through a carefully tailoredand accessible scheme of work. Mini-Bass students can also take part in a choir (1hour) and, when ready, an orchestra (up to 1 hour 15 minutes). Students may extendtheir programme to include second study lessons and/or further musicianship classesby arrangement with the Director. After 3 or 4 years, a Mini-Bass student is usually at alevel to audition successfully as a full member of the RCMJD.


When is it?Like the RCMJD as a whole, the Mini-Bass course takes place between 9am and 5pm on Saturdays during term time, though the course willnot fill all those hours and timetables will be kept as compact aspossible for our youngest students.

Where is it?At the RCM (see OVERVIEW page 5).

How do I apply?To apply for the Mini-Bass scheme please fill out the applicationform enclosed putting “Mini-Bass” in the first study field and ifyou are a total beginner, put “0” for the number of years youhave been learning . If you currently play an instrument, noteit down under second study and don’t forget to tell us howlong you’ve been learning. Don’t worry if you can’t completeevery section. For more general information on how to apply aswell as the closing date for applications, see the HOW TO APPLY

section on page 20.

Students on the Mini-Bass scheme have gone on to play in some of the world’s top orchestras including the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, the AmsterdamConcertgebouw, the London Symphony Orchestra and the Philharmonia Orchestra.

F I F T E E N

SPECIAL PROGRAMMES★

Saturdays were always the

highlight of his week –as well as hard work, there was clearly a lot of

fun and laughter!Parent

“”


S I X T E E N

SPECIAL PROGRAMMESVISUALLY IMPAIRED MUSICIANS SCHEME

The RCMJD Visually Impaired Musicians’ Scheme (VIMS) providesan opportunity for motivated visually impaired students of allmusical abilities from beginner to advanced to study music in anexciting and supportive environment. Students are taught byleading specialists for one-to-one lessons as well as group work. A key element is the use of and training on specially developedcomputer technology for the visually impaired. The scheme aimsto build confidence, discipline and self-motivation throughaccomplishment in music. These life-long skills are especiallyimportant to young people with a visual impairment. Studentsfrom the course have gone on to study full-time degree courses atConservatoires and Universities.

Who can apply?Any visually impaired young person between the ages of 8 and 17 may apply.Beginners must be 12 or under though more experienced musicians may beaccepted up to the age of 17. You must have a strong desire to learn music andshould have good natural rhythm and pitch. All students will be interviewed andassessed on the basis of a short musical aptitude test and, where appropriate,performance on their main instrument.


S E V E N T E E N

What is on offer?Specialist tuition from RCMJD teachers and Musicians in Focus – one of Europe’sleading providers of information and support for visually impaired music studentsand professionals – coupled with cutting-edge technology provides an unrivalledtraining ground for visually impaired musicians. We offer an individually tailoredtimetable of one-to-one instrumental lessons, music theory and notation classes,choral training, keyboard skills, rhythm and pitch training, and music technology.The skills gained through the technology encompass all areas of study for the future,regardless of subject.

When is it?Like the RCMJD as a whole, the Visually Impaired Musicians’ Scheme takes placebetween 9am and 5pm on Saturdays during term time though a more compacttimetable may be available for our youngest students.

Where is it?At the RCM (see OVERVIEW on page 5). VIMS students have access to our AssistiveTechnologies Suite where they can work with cutting-edge technology for the visually impaired.

How do I apply?To apply for the Visually Impaired Musicians’ Scheme and for more informationplease contact Jacqueline Clifton in the first instance. If emailing please copy in theRCMJD office on [email protected]

Jacqueline Clifton, Director – Musicians in Focus6 Hafod Street, Cardiff, CF11 6RA Tel: 029 2023 1113 [email protected]

For more information about Musicians in Focus, please see their website at www.musiciansinfocus.org

If you require this information in large typeor Braille please contact the RCMJD office on 020 7591 4334 or email [email protected]

SPECIAL PROGRAMMES★

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FEES & BURSARIES ★

FEES & BURSARIESThe enclosed sheet gives details of next year’s fees. Please note that itis our intention that students who are successful at audition shouldnot be prevented from coming to RCMJD through financial hardship.

Those needing support may apply for a bursary from RCMJD.These are means tested and allocated according to financial needby an independent committee. Parents wishing to apply shouldrequest more information by ticking the appropriate box on theapplication form. Please note that the Bursary form may requireyou to have made applications to other funders in addition toRCMJD application.

We are extremely grateful that the RCMJD bursaries are supported by the RoyalCollege of Music, the Wolfson Foundation, the Worshipful Company of Drapers, the Leverhulme Trust, the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music, the H RTaylor Trust and the Elsa and Leonard Cross Charitable Trust. HM Government’sMusic & Dance Scheme funding initiative also supports around ten percent of ourstudents. We are also grateful to the large number of schools, local authorities,business and organisations who independently support the studies of many students.In particular we would like to recognise with gratitude the Musicians’ BenevolentFund, Awards for Young Musicians, and Miss E B Wrightson’s Charitable Trust.

E I G H T E E N

”

“The relationship that

developed with my teachers

was invaluable,as was working alongside some of the

‘next-generation’s’ top musicians

Student


FEES & BURSARIES★

N I N E T E E N

Being able to interact, socialise with and work with other young musicians allowed me to

expand my musical knowledge and

enjoymenthugely

Student ”

“


T W E N T Y

HOW TO APPLYEntry to the RCMJD is by audition in March/April for entry in September the same year. This is our only audition period,though we may offer auditions outside this period in exceptional circumstances.

The closing date for applications is 1 March for entry in September the same year.(For example the closing date for applications for September 2013 is 1 March 2013).

An application form is enclosed with this brochure. You can request further copiesby contacting the RCMJD office, or download it from our website www.rcm.ac.uk/junior.Please fill in ALL the fields on the application form and if you want to leave any partof it blank please make it clear that you meant to do that.

With your completed application form you will need to send us:

★ A recent passport-size photograph★ A cheque for the stated audition fee made payable to ‘Royal College of Music’

and clearly marked with the applicant’s name on the reverse

How old do I need to be to apply?Students are admitted from the age of eight upwards and normally remain in theRCMJD until the end of secondary schooling, provided that they continue to merittheir place. Students are normally admitted for a minimum of two years’ study. Ifyou are interested in studying for one year only, please contact the RCMJD officebefore applying. Please note that we do not normally admit Gap Year students, andthat if you want to apply as a first study singer, you should be at least 14 yearsold for reasons of vocal maturity.


HOW TO APPLY★

How good do I have to be to get in?Entry is subject to audition. Present attainment and potential, the number of places available for each instrument and suitability for the course are all taken intoconsideration. You don’t need to have taken exams, but as a rough guide, your first study should be roughly ABRSM Grade 5 distinction level, at the age of 11. On instruments often started at a later age, particularly viola, bassoon, horn,trombone, tuba, harp, organ and double bass, a different level may be acceptable. If in doubt please contact the RCMJD.

What do I have to do for the audition?The audition may be one or two-stage and you will be advised of specificrequirements at the time of application. You should be prepared for:

★ Principal instrument*: two short contrasting pieces ★ Second instrument* (if you play one): one short piece★ Sight reading: on the principal instrument only★ Aural tests★ Musical Discussion

* Composers will be required to submit scores in advance.

The audition panel will discuss your general musical interests with you. You mustuse the official accompanist and will have time to reherse with him/her beforeaudition. The decision of the audition panel is final and thoughfeedback will be provided in the letter we send you after audition, we are unable to enter into further correspondenceabout results.

When do I know if I’ve been offered a place?Results are sent directly to your parents as soon aspossible after the audition period. If you accept anoffer of a place you will then be asked to complete ashort written paper to help us put you in the mostsuitable musicianship class.


FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Do you have open days?We don’t have an open day as such, preferring to give prospective students theopportunity to get a real hands-on feel of life at RCMJD. We are happy to arrangefor you to come and spend a day with us, shadowing a current student of similar ageand instrument. Visit days are an informal arrangement and are available on a first-come first-served basis from November to February each year. Please contact theRCMJD office for more information.

How amazing do I have to be?Entry is competitive and every young musician is different so this is a toughquestion. However, we’ve provided some guidance in the HOW TO APPLY section onpage 20. If appropriate, ask your teacher as they will have the best idea of howyou’re doing as a musician. Alternatively, come and visit us and decide for yourself!

I’m not sure I can afford it – is there any financialhelp available?It is our aim that students who are successful at audition should not be preventedfrom coming to RCMJD by financial hardship. Please see the FEES & BURSARIES

section on page 18 for more information.

I don’t play the piano either as a first or secondinstrument. Does that matter?No, though we’d encourage you to take it up as keyboard skills are always useful toevery musician.

T W E N T Y T W O


I only play one instrument. Can I still come to RCMJD?Of course! There are a number of studies where we might encourage you to play an additional instrument if you wanted to but it is not a requirement andwill not compromise you at audition if you do not. Situations in which we mightencourage a second instrument (depending on age and development) are:

Piano – 1st study pianists may be encouraged to play an alternative (orchestral)instrument so that they may take part in orchestras;

Composition – 1st study composers may be encouraged to play an instrument toallow them to take part in ensemble activities;

Singers – 1st study singers are particularly encouraged to learn piano.

I’m great at my first instrument but I’ve only juststarted my second instrument. Will this disadvantage me at audition?Not at all! It’s potential we’re looking for, and it’s the first instrument we care mostabout so don’t let that worry you. Well done for being adventurous and tryingsomething new!

I don’t read music and only play/sing/compose by ear. Can I still come to RCMJD?Reading music is a very important skill for musicians of every style and level. If your playing/singing/composing is exciting and musical then it shouldn’t be aproblem at audition, but we would expect you to learn to read music at the earliest opportunity, and be keen and hard working enough to do so.

T W E N T Y T H R E E

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS★

I am so thankful for my time at JD since I have made some

strong friendships, been given some

wonderful opportunities and I’m sure it

will stand me in good stead for the futureStudent

“”


T W E N T Y F O U R

I’m only little! Please can I do just half a day?We do not offer a half-day curriculum as such. However, each student has anindividually crafted timetable and we will of course try and give our youngeststudents as compact a day as possible.

Isn’t this only for people who want to go on to studyat a conservatoire?Absolutely not! Whilst most of our students go on to study at conservatoire, ormusic at university, recent graduates of the RCMJD have gone on to a variety ofdifferent courses and careers such as engineering, languages, medicine and evenrocket science! The aim of the RCMJD is that by the time you leave aged 18 you willbe of a standard that allows you to apply successfully to study at conservatoire ifyou want to. Advice on what you do with your future is on hand every step of theway, and you will have a private interview with the Director when you are in Year 12to discuss your career options.

We have never ceased to be impressed by the dedication

and talent of staff and pupils in the

unique environmentthat makes up the RCMJD.

Students leave with a

wealth of musical abilityand experience that will

stand them in good stead wherever

their career paths may lead

Parent ”

“

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ★


“ I have

warm memoriesof my time here: the

stimulating atmosphere,wall-to-wall music,

inspiring teachersand friendships made

have all been very specialStudent ”

T W E N T Y F I V E


The RCMJD Office is open 11am to 3pm Tuesday to Friday and 8am to 5pm on term-time Saturdays. If you want to come and visit us in person, please let us know.

Royal College of Music Junior Department Prince Consort Road, London, SW7 2BS

T: 020 7591 4334 E: [email protected] W: www.rcm.ac.uk/junior

I recommend JD to any musical family or child –

It’s a very special musical community

Parent

“”


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MA ORFROM MINOR TO

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