We are delighted to share the unforgettable thrill of live performances, workshops and courses with schools, families and young people here at the Royal College of Music and in the local community.
RCM Sparks run events for children and families every term. Current events are displayed below. Tickets are released at the latter end of each term for events taking place the following term.
19 October 2025, 12:00pm
Amaryllis Fleming Concert Hall
Dive into an unforgettable orchestral adventure featuring enchanting melodies and thrilling rhythms inspired by the ocean’s beauty, mystery, and power.
26 October 2025, 11:00am
Various locations
The RCM’s highly anticipated Woodwind and Brass Festival returns for its second year, under the artistic direction of faculty heads Marie Lloyd and Amos Miller.
28 October 2025, 10:30am
Various locations
This two-day course, run by GALSI and RCM Sparks, is for young brass or percussion players who identify as female or non-binary.
30 October 2025, 9:45am
Jay Mews Upper Studio
This popular two-day course focuses on creative musicmaking, storytelling, instrumental playing and singing.
26 October 2025, 11:00am
RCM Museum
Discover and engage with the RCM Museum's amazing collections in a variety of family-friendly activities.
We do not have anything to show at the moment. Check back regularly for the latest news about our events, or you can subscribe to our mailing list.
We present one free lunchtime concert every term specially tailored for key stage 2 school children. Hosted by a professional presenter and accompanied by a free teacher resource pack, our lunchtime concerts for schools are a fantastic opportunity to introduce young people to classical music and to the unrivalled experience of seeing it performed live.
14 October 2025, 11:30am
Britten Theatre
Join the RCM Jazz Orchestra for an exciting mix of Ed Puddick's quirky arrangements and intricate originals, influenced by the whole big band tradition but with a modern twist.
14 October 2025, 1:15pm
Britten Theatre
Join the RCM Jazz Orchestra for an exciting mix of Ed Puddick's quirky arrangements and intricate originals, influenced by the whole big band tradition but with a modern twist.
225 practical workshop opportunities
for children, young people and families
In the 2024-25 academic year
The gamelan is the traditional orchestra of Indonesia, and the Royal College of Music has one of the largest sets in Europe. Gamelan has established itself at the centre of music education in the UK and features in the GCSE music course.
RCM Sparks offers practical and creative gamelan workshops for groups of up to 30 people. People of all ages (early years upwards) including those with disabilities, can enjoy gamelan workshops. Playing the gamelan is both fun and relaxing, requires no previous experience, and sessions can be tailored to suit the needs of each group.
A typical taster session lasts 90 minutes and includes:
By the end of the session you will be able to perform a short piece of traditional Javanese or Balinese music.
Workshops held at the Royal College of Music are usually offered subsidised rate of £125 (including booking & administration fee, excluding VAT) for a session lasting 90 minutes.
If you have any queries about booking a gamelan workshop for your premises or would like to talk to us about the practicalities of a gamelan session, please contact our Gamelan team.
The Royal College of Music Museum has undergone a major development, providing new facilities including a new purpose-built gallery and a hands-on discovery area. RCM Sparks is working in close partnership with the RCM Museum to develop of programme of learning and participation events that explore the wonders and historical treasures of the RCM collections.
Please get in touch to find out more.
Royal College of Music
Prince Consort Road
London SW7 2BS
United Kingdom
Registered charity No. 309268
