The 2024 Big Give Christmas Challenge: a record-breaking success

Monday 31 March 2025

#UpbeatOnline

For over 15 years, the Royal College of Music (RCM) has proudly participated in the Big Give Christmas Challenge, the UK’s largest online match-funding campaign. Supported by the Reed Foundation, this inspiring initiative has become a cornerstone of the College fundraising calendar, fuelling enthusiasm for the RCM Scholarships Programme and enabling the College to support exceptionally talented young musicians. 

Each year, the Big Give has grown in strength, and the 2024 campaign was the most ambitious yet, with a target of £200,000. During the campaign week, every donation to the RCM Scholarships Fund was doubled by generous match pledgers, making each gift twice as impactful in shaping the future of young musicians. This year, the campaign’s success will directly support 20 Big Give scholars, ensuring financial barriers do not hinder their exceptional talent. 

'I asked the College about getting more involved and was thrilled to be invited to take part in the Big Give campaign. It was such a rewarding experience.'  – Becky Strentz (BMus) 

A standout feature of the 2024 campaign was the RCM telethon, now in its second year. This special initiative placed RCM students at the heart of the College’s outreach efforts, connecting them directly with supporters. Through heartfelt conversations, donors gained a unique window into life at the RCM, while students were empowered to share their passion for music and the transformative role of philanthropy. 

From a student’s perspective, the telethon was equally rewarding. Becky Strentz, a Bachelor of Music (Brass) student and Jane Barker Scholar, shared: ‘I had asked the College about getting more involved and was thrilled to be invited to take part in the Big Give campaign. At first, I was nervous about reaching out to people, but those nerves quickly disappeared. I had so many friendly conversations with people who were genuinely interested in my studies and eager to talk about music. It was such a rewarding experience, and I was so pleased to contribute to the campaign.’ 

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Thanks to the unwavering support of donors, alumni, staff and the wider RCM community, the campaign not only met but surpassed its ambitious goal, raising an incredible £223,418, including Gift Aid. With 172 supporters contributing, The College achieved its highest-ever number of individual donations. 

Among the 1,267 participating charities, the RCM ranked fifth for funds raised among charities supporting young people and retained its position as the top-performing arts organisation in the 2024 Big Give Christmas Challenge. These results ensure that 20 exceptionally talented scholars can continue their studies without financial barriers, enabling them to focus on achieving their full potential and bringing their artistry to audiences worldwide. 

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Every contribution to the RCM Scholarships Fund has a profound and lasting impact. As a charitable organisation, the Royal College of Music relies on the generosity of its supporters to ensure that no talented musician is held back due to financial constraints. By supporting the RCM Scholarships Programme, you are investing in the future of music, fostering world-leading talent, and ensuring that music continues to enrich lives across the globe. 

If you’d like to help the RCM reach even greater heights in 2025 or learn more about the life-changing impact of the RCM Scholarships Fund, visit Support scholarships through the Future Music Fund | Royal College of Music or contact philanthropy@rcm.ac.uk