At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a fully funded year of intensive musical training and academic preparation.
- Company: Royal Academy of Music, a prestigious institution for aspiring musicians.
- Benefits: Fee-free programme, £16,500 living-cost bursary, and access to top-notch facilities.
- Other info: Gain one-to-one tuition, ensemble coaching, and mentoring in a vibrant London setting.
- Why this job: Transform your musical talent and prepare for conservatoire auditions with expert guidance.
- Qualifications: Must be 18-20, state educated, and demonstrate financial need.
The predicted salary is between 16500 - 16500 £ per year.
The Royal Academy of Music Foundation Year is a fully funded one year programme supporting state educated musicians aged 18–20 who’ve experienced financial or other barriers to opportunity. It is designed to support talented students who demonstrate the potential to succeed at undergraduate conservatoire level but would benefit from an additional year of intensive musical and academic preparation before auditioning.
From July 2026, up to five students each year will receive one-to-one tuition, ensemble training, mentoring, academic study and structured guidance for undergraduate applications and auditions. The programme aims to widen access to advanced music study by supporting musicians who may not yet have had access to specialist training or preparation for conservatoire auditions. The programme is generously supported by the Clore Duffield Foundation, enabling it to be fee‑free and to provide substantial financial support to participating students.
Course Outline
The Foundation Year runs from July to June and combines online preparation with in‑person study in London.
- July – August: Online study including principal study, musicianship and academic preparation.
- September – December: In‑person study in London focusing on principal study, ensemble work and preparation for undergraduate applications and auditions.
- January – March: Continuation of principal study alongside aural, analytical and contextual studies. Students receive audition feedback and guidance on next steps.
- April – June: Performance projects, ensemble work and a final showcase, alongside preparation for progression to undergraduate study.
Throughout the year students receive:
- Weekly one‑to‑one principal study tuition
- Small‑group classes in musicianship and academic studies
- Ensemble coaching and collaborative projects
- Application and audition guidance
- Pastoral and mentoring support
- Opportunities to engage with Academy rehearsals, masterclasses and performances
Funding and Support
The Foundation Year is fee‑free.
- A £16,500 living‑cost bursary
- Access to University of London accommodation
- Additional financial support where required, including assistance with high‑quality instruments
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Have been educated at a UK state school
- Be aged 18–20 at the start of the programme
- Demonstrate financial challenge through means‑tested assessment
- Be able to commit to the full year of study, including relocation to London from September 2026
Entry Requirements
Musical Requirements
The Foundation Year is intended for musicians who demonstrate the potential to reach undergraduate conservatoire standard within one year. Applicants should demonstrate:
- Strong general musicianship and aural awareness
- Clear technical and artistic potential
- Readiness to undertake intensive musical training
Applications are welcomed across all principal studies taught at undergraduate level at the Royal Academy of Music. If music is not being studied as an academic subject at A Level (or equivalent), we recommend knowledge of music theory at approximately Grade 6 level (ABRSM or Trinity College London) before starting the course. For applicants whose principal study is not a keyboard instrument, piano skills at approximately Grade 5 level (or equivalent) are desirable, though not essential. The programme is particularly suitable for musicians who may have previously auditioned for conservatoires but would benefit from an additional year of focused preparation before re‑applying. All applicants will be required to audition as part of the selection process.
Academic Requirements
The Foundation Year prepares students for progression to conservatoire or university music study. Applicants intending to progress to undergraduate study should normally be working towards, or already have achieved, the academic qualifications required for entry to a university or conservatoire. For entry to the Royal Academy of Music BMus programme, this requires: Applicants intending to progress to other universities must ensure they meet the academic entry requirements of those institutions.
Progression
The Foundation Year does not guarantee automatic entry to an undergraduate programme at the Royal Academy of Music. Students must complete the standard undergraduate application and audition process, and entry remains competitive. The programme is designed to provide the preparation, support and guidance needed to approach these auditions with confidence. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to audition and attend an interview at the Royal Academy of Music. Travel costs for shortlisted applicants will be fully covered.
New Foundation Course at Royal Academy of Music for 18-20 year olds in London employer: Soundandmusic
The Royal Academy of Music is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering the next generation of talented musicians through its fully funded Foundation Year programme. Located in the vibrant city of London, the Academy offers a supportive and inclusive work culture, with ample opportunities for personal and professional growth, mentorship, and access to world-class resources. By joining our team, you will play a vital role in widening access to advanced music education and making a meaningful impact on the lives of aspiring musicians from diverse backgrounds.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land New Foundation Course at Royal Academy of Music for 18-20 year olds in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current students or alumni from the Royal Academy of Music. They can give us insider tips on what the audition process is really like and how to stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Make sure we’re not just rehearsing our pieces but also working on our performance skills. Consider recording ourselves to spot areas for improvement before the big day.
✨Tip Number 3
Get familiar with the application process. We should check out the Royal Academy of Music’s website for any updates or specific requirements. It’s all about being prepared and knowing what to expect!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to showcase our personality! During auditions, it’s important to let our passion for music shine through. Be confident and show them why we’re the perfect fit for the Foundation Year.
We think you need these skills to ace New Foundation Course at Royal Academy of Music for 18-20 year olds in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to get to know the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your unique musical journey and experiences.
Show Your Passion:Make sure to express your love for music and why this Foundation Year is important for you. We’re looking for students who are eager to learn and grow, so let us feel your enthusiasm!
Tailor Your Application:Take the time to read through the programme details and align your application with what we’re looking for. Highlight your strengths and how they fit with the Foundation Year’s goals – it’ll make a big difference!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your materials and ensures you’re following the correct process. We can’t wait to see what you’ve got!
How to prepare for a job interview at Soundandmusic
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in your principal study and can discuss your musical journey confidently. Brush up on your aural skills and be ready to demonstrate your technical abilities during the audition.
✨Show Your Passion
Let your enthusiasm for music shine through! Talk about what inspires you, your favourite composers, or pieces that have impacted your musical development. This will help the interviewers see your genuine love for music.
✨Prepare for Questions
Think about potential questions they might ask, such as your goals for the Foundation Year or how you’ve overcome challenges in your musical journey. Practising your answers can help you feel more at ease during the interview.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Remember, it’s a two-way conversation! Ask insightful questions about the programme, the mentoring process, or performance opportunities. This shows you’re genuinely interested and helps build rapport with the interviewers.
