Wales-based and world class

One of the best conservatoires in Europe

RWCMD was confirmed as being among Europe’s very best conservatoires, following an independent quality review. MusiQuE sets international standards in higher education conservatoire training and is the ultimate test of quality in conservatoire training. The College achieved top marks through comprehensive peer review. It is the first time a UK institution has put itself forward for this level of review, across music, drama and under-18 provision.

The 5 Things You Need to Know About RWCMD Quality

1 In the recent international MusiQuE quality review, RWCMD achieved top marks.

2 RWCMD is the first UK institution to achieve this gold standard level of quality assurance across music, drama and under 18s.

3 Reviewers were especially impressed with the RWCMD approach to individual student experience, multidisciplinary collaboration and overall ambition.

4 After closely examining every aspect of College, the review concluded RWCMD is a shining example of best practice across European conservatoires.

5 We will wear this badge of honour with pride, as a reflection of the exceptional people and unique community we have at RWCMD.

Bringing harp home to Wales

After years of planning, the 14th World Harp Congress arrived at College in Summer 2022. Held every three years around the world, it represents harp from more than 50 countries and seeks to promote the exchange of ideas, stimulate contact, and encourage the composition of new music for the harp. Over the week, more than 800 delegates from 37 countries took part in recitals, masterclasses, workshops, concerts and lectures.

Artists as makers

Our ethos is that artistry lies in much more than performance alone. Our students are the makers of work, constantly breathing new possibilities into all kinds of creative practice. Those possibilities are limitless, and we strive to offer an environment which pushes boundaries so that our graduates make a powerful mark on the world.

Musicians as Makers in Society, led by RWCMD Principal Professor Helena Gaunt, is a concept emerging from the international four-year Association of European Conservatoires project Strengthening Music in Society.

As we move forward into innovative approaches to music education, we are creating more and more work across our disciplines of music and drama. That offers fresh opportunities through collaboration and, importantly, prepares our students for the careers ahead of them.