Master of Performance (Historical Performance) (Taught)

The Royal College of Music offers a diverse two-year Masters programme with multiple study routes, which allow students to work towards the qualification most suited to their needs. Normally taken over two years, the Master of Performance (MPerf) develops performers’ practical skills, complemented by options which reflect current vocational and professional needs. Such skills are 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.

The Royal College of Music’s Historical Performance Faculty provides intensive training in all aspects of historically informed interpretation from more than 500 years of music history. Students on both historical and modern instruments have the chance to combine unparalleled access to knowledge with a wide range of performance opportunities.

There are outstanding research and study opportunities to support your training, including an extensive collection of manuscripts and early printed editions. Our collection also contains a wide array of historical instruments which are available to borrow. We also have one of the largest collections of early keyboards in any higher education institution.

Individual lessons are offered on the complete range of period instruments by professors who are active as soloists and in leading period instrument ensembles. A full schedule of performing opportunities includes frequent chamber projects and concerts, baroque and classical orchestral projects for both modern and period instruments and regular masterclasses.

This course is also available on a part-time basis over 3 years upon request.

Most students have the option of taking a second study on this course. 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. Second study specialisms are subject to successful audition and the agreement of the relevant Head of Faculty. Auditions take place during the first few weeks of the course, and students will have the opportunity to register for these auditions shortly before the start of the academic year. There is no need to inform the RCM at the point of application.

Alongside your Principal Study, the programme offers a range of options. In most cases, these are divided into Faculty Options, which are exclusive to your specific faculty, and Professional Options, which offer skills relevant to any aspiring music professional.