Master of Performance (Conducting) (Taught)

The Master of Performance (MPerf) is an advanced training degree offering tailored tuition, performance opportunities and industry experience, through masterclasses, orchestral projects, opera productions and professional collaborations. Normally taken over two years, the MPerf is designed to prepare you for life as a professional musical artist. You will work alongside world-leading musicians to develop your performance skills to the highest international standard.

This course is particularly relevant for those who aim to enter the profession as practitioners at the highest level and who need to meet the current practical demands of the music industry. With a uniquely immersive conservatoire experience, you will be at the heart of a dynamic environment where creativity and collaboration thrive.

The MPerf qualification can also provide the basis for further artistic development through the RCM’s Level 8 Artist Diplomas in Performance or Opera.

The Royal College of Music’s two-year postgraduate course in orchestral conducting is designed to support students as they develop their own individual conducting style. From contemporary compositions to large symphony orchestra repertoire, recording sessions to rehearsals and concerts, you will be involved in all aspects of musical life at the RCM. A detailed programme of technical and repertoire study compliments a wealth of quality podium time, including public performances with full orchestra plus orchestral and sectional preparation for visiting international conductors. Conductors at the RCM have the opportunity to develop a wide range of skills, gaining an all-round understanding of the artistic, psychological, practical and business issues involved in making a career as an orchestral conductor. The RCM normally accepts just one or two students onto this course each year, ensuring that each student receives a highly bespoke programme of tuition.

Professional engagement will be a key component of your experience as a conductor at the RCM. Industry professionals periodically meet with our students, providing valuable insights and career advice. In addition, visiting conductors of the highest calibre often work with RCM conducting students on preparing performances of key repertoire. Conducting students regularly rehearse and perform with our in-house ensembles, including the RCM Philharmonic, RCM Symphony Orchestra, and various new music ensembles. They often premiere new works by RCM composers working with the RCM New Perspectives ensemble or as part of our cutting-edge From the Soundhouse series. All of these public conducting opportunities are an integral part of the RCM’s annual programme of events. In addition, our students have directed RCM orchestras in external venues, including London’s Royal Festival Hall.

Due to its specialist nature, this course is available on a full-time basis only and secondary specialisms are not available.

The RCM's conducting course is run by two conducting professors, each able to bring different but compatible approaches to teaching. From them, you will gain an all-round understanding of the artistic and practical issues involved in conducting. This, coupled with a detailed programme of repertoire study, will enable you to develop as a free-thinking individual equipped with the practical and theoretical skills necessary to progress in this complex and demanding discipline. In addition to podium time with the RCM Philharmonic, RCM Symphony Orchestra and various new music ensembles, students are encouraged to organise their own concerts and work with ensembles from across the RCM. Conducting students can lead orchestral and sectional preparations for visiting international conductors.