Top Music Schools in London: Admissions, Courses, Rankings, Acceptance Rates, and More
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London is home to some of the best music schools in the world, attracting talented students from across the globe. Whether you dream of becoming a professional musician, composer, or performer, these top institutions offer world-class programs, amazing facilities, and the chance to learn from industry legends. In this blog, we’ll explore the top music schools in London, including their courses, rankings, and admissions, so you can find the perfect place to kick-start your music career!
Royal Academy of Music
The Royal Academy of Music (RAM), founded way back in 1822, is the oldest music school in the UK and still one of the very best today! In the 2024 QS World University Rankings, RAM came in #2 globally, just behind RCM. The academy is known for its creative approach to music and offers courses for everyone from beginners to professional musicians. RAM is full of amazing performance spaces and even has a museum filled with rare instruments. Legendary musicians like Sir Elton John and Sir Simon Rattle started their journeys here. Below are the key details of Royal Academy of Music (RAM):
| Aspect | Details |
| Founded | 1822 |
| Global Ranking | #2 in the 2024 QS World University Rankings for Performing Arts |
| Programs | Undergraduate, Postgraduate, and Doctoral degrees |
| Facilities | Duke’s Hall, concert rooms, recording studios, and a museum |
| Students | Under 5,000 students – 53% UK, 19% EU, 28% International |
| Famous Alumni | Sir Elton John, Sir Simon Rattle, Katherine Jenkins, Annie Lennox |
| Location | London, United Kingdom |
Royal College of Music
The Royal College of Music (RCM), founded in 1882, is one of the world’s best places to study music. It ranked #1 globally in the 2024 QS World University Rankings for Performing Arts, making it the top music school in the world! RCM offers a wide range of courses, from undergraduate degrees to PhDs, and is famous for its impressive concert halls, high-tech recording studios, and practice rooms. With over 900 students from around the world, RCM is home to future music stars. Big names like Gustav Holst and Benjamin Britten once studied here too! Below are the key details of Royal Academy of Music:
| Aspect | Details |
| Founded | 1882 |
| Global Ranking | #1 in the 2024 QS World University Rankings for Performing Arts |
| Programs | Undergraduate, Postgraduate, and Doctoral degrees |
| Facilities | Concert halls, recording studios, museum, and practice rooms |
| Students | About 930 students – 45% UK, 21% EU, 34% International |
| Famous Alumni | Gustav Holst, Benjamin Britten, Dame Joan Sutherland |
| Location | London, United Kingdom |
Guildhall School of Music and Drama
The Guildhall School of Music and Drama, founded in 1880, is one of the UK’s most exciting places to study music, acting, and production arts. Ranked #5 in the world for Performing Arts in the 2024 QS World University Rankings, Guildhall is all about creativity and performance. Big stars like Daniel Craig and Bryn Terfel have walked its halls, and with over 1,000 students from across the globe, the energy is always electric! Below are the key details of Guildhall School of Music and Drama:
| Aspect | Details |
| Founded | 1880 |
| Global Ranking | #5 in the 2024 QS World University Rankings for Performing Arts |
| Programs | Undergraduate and Postgraduate degrees in Music, Drama, and Production Arts |
| Facilities | Concert halls, theatres, rehearsal spaces, and studios |
| Students | Over 1,000 students from around the world |
| Famous Alumni | Daniel Craig, Sir Bryn Terfel, Ewan McGregor |
| Location | London, United Kingdom |
Royal Birmingham Conservatoire
The Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, founded in 1886, is a hidden gem in the heart of Birmingham. It became a “Royal” conservatoire in 2017, a rare honor that highlights its incredible contributions to music and the arts. Although not currently in the top QS rankings, this school is known for its world-class facilities, including a 500-seat concert hall, a jazz club, and nearly 100 practice rooms. Famous graduates like Laura Mvula and Shabaka Hutchings started their creative journeys here! Below are the key details of Royal Birmingham Conservatoire:
| Aspect | Details |
| Founded | 1886 (received Royal status in 2017) |
| Global Ranking | Not ranked in the 2024 QS World University Rankings |
| Programs | Undergraduate, Postgraduate, and Doctoral degrees in Music, Acting, and Stage Production |
| Facilities | Concert hall, jazz club, organ studio, 100+ practice rooms, and recording studios |
| Students | Over 900 students from the UK and abroad |
| Famous Alumni | Laura Mvula, Shabaka Hutchings, Rhydian Roberts |
| Location | Birmingham, United Kingdom |
Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM)
Based in Manchester and founded in 1973, the Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM) is a powerhouse in the performing arts world. In the 2024 QS World University Rankings, it landed at #5 globally, which is a huge achievement! RNCM is famous for its vibrant atmosphere, with over 400 live performances each year, giving students the chance to shine on stage regularly. The college is home to talented musicians from all over the world and has produced stars like Stephen Hough and Stjepan Hauser of 2CELLOS fame. Below are the key details of Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM):
| Aspect | Details |
| Founded | 1973 (after merging two historic music schools) |
| Global Ranking | #5 in the 2024 QS World University Rankings for Performing Arts |
| Programs | Undergraduate, Postgraduate, and Doctoral degrees in a range of music disciplines |
| Facilities | Concert hall, theatre, studio theatre, recital hall, and extensive practice spaces |
| Students | Around 900 students from across the globe |
| Famous Alumni | Stephen Hough, Stjepan Hauser (2CELLOS), Sir Mark Elder |
| Location | Manchester, United Kingdom |
Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance
Formed in 2005 by merging Trinity College of Music and Laban Dance Centre, Trinity Laban is a top spot for students who love music and dance. Ranked #19 in the world for Performing Arts in the 2024 QS Rankings, this school is famous for its modern style and creative vibe. With bright, open studios, performance halls, and a forward-thinking approach, Trinity Laban is a place where students really shine. Alumni like Debbie Wiseman and Sir Matthew Bourne got their start here! Below are the key details of Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance:
| Aspect | Details |
| Founded | 2005 (merger of Trinity College of Music and Laban Dance Centre) |
| Global Ranking | #19 in the 2024 QS World University Rankings for Performing Arts |
| Programs | Undergraduate and Postgraduate degrees in Music and Dance |
| Facilities | Dance studios, concert halls, and specialist libraries |
| Students | Over 1,200 students from around the world |
| Famous Alumni | Debbie Wiseman, Sir Matthew Bourne, Fela Kuti |
| Location | London, United Kingdom |
Conclusion
Choosing the right music school is a big step toward a successful career in the arts. London’s top music schools like RCM, RAM, and Guildhall offer incredible opportunities, expert teachers, and a chance to join the ranks of famous alumni. With each school offering something unique, from classical music to cutting-edge performance spaces, there’s a perfect place for every aspiring artist. Take your passion for music to the next level and discover where your talent can truly shine!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best music school in London?
The Royal College of Music (RCM) is currently ranked #1 in the world for Performing Arts in the 2024 QS World University Rankings, making it the top music school in London and globally.
What courses do top music schools in London offer?
London's top music schools offer a wide range of programs, including:
- Undergraduate degrees (Bachelor of Music, BA in Musical Theatre, etc.)
- Postgraduate degrees (Master of Music, MA in Composition, etc.)
- Doctoral programs (PhDs in various musical fields)
- Specialized courses in performance, composition, production, and dance.
Can international students apply to music schools in London?
Yes! All of these schools welcome international students. In fact:
- RCM has about 34% international students.
- RAM hosts students from over 50 countries, making them globally diverse and supportive.
How much does it cost to study at top music school in London?
Tuition fees vary depending on the course and student’s residency:
- UK students: Around £9,250 per year.
- International students: Between £20,000 – £30,000 per year. Scholarships and financial aid are available at most schools to help with costs.
What are the acceptance rates for these top music schools in London?
Acceptance rates vary by school and course but are generally competitive. Prestigious schools like RCM and RAM have rigorous audition processes, and only a small percentage of applicants are admitted each year. For example:
- RCM and RAM acceptance rates are estimated to be between 10-20%.
Other schools like Trinity Laban and Guildhall may be slightly higher but still selective.
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