Overview
Gap year students are considered as fully-enrolled members of the Academy’s student body, and have equal access to the Academy’s resources (library, computers, practice rooms etc).
This course is for you if you are about to complete your secondary school (High School) studies and either wish to spend a year at the Academy before taking up a full-time undergraduate programme of study at another institution, or if you would like to receive Academy training but do not require a full programme of study that leads to a degree.
The course principles are:
- To enable students to benefit from one year of conservatoire education
- To provide a tailor-made course of study according to the strengths and needs of each individual student
- To offer the same performance opportunities provided for degree students (with the approval of the Academic Tutor and Head of Programme)
- To offer appropriate academic subjects in consultation with the Academic Tutor and Head of Programme
- To assess practical and/or academic progress by examination
- To provide a transcript of studies showing completed modules (but no degree or other award)
Entry Requirements
- Performance/Composition: High standard of performing potential or composition, strong musicianship, and good aural skills.
- Music Exams: Formal exams are not required, but successful performers are typically at a Grade 8 Distinction level or higher.
- Music Theory: Grade 6 level knowledge is recommended before starting if you aren't taking school music exams.
- Keyboard Skills: No formal minimum required (unless it's your Principal Study), though Grade 5 piano is desirable to support general musicianship.
See Entry Requirements for full academic and international criteria.
Auditions and Interviews
We view the audition process as an open artistic dialogue rather than an exam. Our panel of distinguished composers is looking for your original creative voice, your curiosity, and your potential for growth. Relax, be proud of the music you have created, and let us get to know you as an artist.
Your Portfolio Requirements
The Gap Year pathway is designed for students looking for a focused, one-year intensive development period before embarking on full higher education. You must submit a digital portfolio via the Acceptd portal containing:
- Two Original Scores: A portfolio consisting of two of your own compositions that highlight your current creative direction.
- Audio Recordings: Audio recordings accompanying both submitted pieces.
- Note: While live performance recordings of your work are preferred, clear MIDI or synthesized mock-ups are entirely acceptable if live recordings do not exist.
What to Expect at the Live Audition (London)
Shortlisted Gap Year applicants will attend an in-person audition in London lasting approximately 20 to 30 minutes:
- Portfolio Review: A dedicated discussion with the panel about your two submitted works, exploring how you approach notation, instrumentation, and musical texture.
- Pathway Interview: A conversation focused on what you hope to achieve during this intensive interim year, your current musical tastes, and your future academic and professional goals.
Academic Interview & Aural Skills Assessment
In addition to your composition interview, all undergraduate-level applicants will complete a separate interview with a member of our academic staff. This is an informal conversation to evaluate your broader musical interests and aspirations.
During this session, you will discuss a short extract of music and complete an Aural Skills Assessment to evaluate your foundational musicianship:
- Sight-singing a short test melody.
- Singing the middle notes in a played chord.
- Identification of musical intervals.
- Sight-reading of rhythms.
- Simultaneous polyrhythms: Sight-reading two different rhythms at the same time (singing one rhythm while clapping the other simultaneously).
Please note: Specimen tests are not published or distributed in advance.
Guidelines for Remote / Video Applicants
If you are applying from outside the UK and cannot attend the live auditions in London or at an international hub, your portfolio will be evaluated digitally via Acceptd.
- The Spoken Video Introduction: Your digital profile must include a short spoken introduction in English. Use this video to introduce yourself, briefly explain the concepts behind the pieces in your portfolio, and share why you want to study composition at the Academy.
- Online Interview: If your portfolio passes the initial screening, you will be invited to a live online interview with the composition faculty and an academic staff member.
For more information see auditions.