James Williams, RCM Director, introduces the next edition of Upbeat, in which we celebrate composers past and present, from Gustav Holst’s 150th anniversary to alumni at the cutting edge of new music.

Find out more about the new Director of the Royal College of Music, James Williams, in our exclusive Q&A.

In Holst’s 150th anniversary year, Upbeat discovers the man behind the music, focusing on his time at the Royal College of Music and his friendship with fellow alumnus, Ralph Vaughan Williams.

Upbeat introduces ten of the many RCM composition graduates blazing a trail in the UK and around the world.

Described as ‘powerful’, ‘extraordinary’ and ‘tantalizing’ by reviewers, the Royal College of Music Symphony Orchestra and Chorus made their spectacular debut at the world’s biggest classical music festival, the BBC Proms, to critical acclaim.

Royal College of Music (RCM) pianist Jacky Zhang captivated the judges throughout all stages of the prestigious BBC Young Musician of the Year competition, earning his place in the final three. RCM Junior Department harpist Jamaal Kashim also impressed the judges securing a unanimous victory in his quarter-final, progressing to the competition’s semi-final.

His Majesty The Emperor of Japan today experienced the Royal College of Music’s unique blend of heritage and innovation.

For the 15th year in a row, the Royal College of Music is delighted to have been selected to take part in the Big Give Christmas Challenge, the UK’s biggest match funding campaign.

Upbeat caught up with Ivana Gavrić to hear about life after the RCM and how the Creative Careers Centre helped forge her career.

The Royal College of Music (RCM) achieved excellent results in the annual National Student Survey (NSS), excelling in teaching quality, learning opportunities and student voice.

Hear the latest news from our global community of alumni, including prestigious awards, recent performances and new releases.

Read about the achievements of staff members from all parts of the RCM.

From prestigious performances to glittering awards, find out about just some of the recent achievements of RCM students.

The work of the RCM is made possible by our community of donors.

Remembering the lives of those associated with the Royal College of Music.