Percussion (ages 12-18)

There is no deadline to apply, however booking is first come, first serve – so we recommend applying as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. We aim to review applications every two weeks, however this is subject to staff availability.

Please see Entry Requirements tab for further information about the supporting materials which are required for application.

Payment of the balance of the tuition fee is payable once applicants have been notified that they have been successful in their application to the course and completed their booking.

The summer school will consist of a mixture of individual lessons, ensemble and performance classes. Details of what you can expect in each of these sessions are listed below.

Individual Lessons

One to one coaching with expert tutors will develop your interpretation and understanding of prepared repertoire as well as helping with overall technical development. You will be encouraged to observe one another’s lessons and learn from peer observation.

Chamber Music

All students will be assigned chamber music groups which will be coached throughout the course in preparation for an informal sharing at the end of the week.

Performance Class

This class gives you the chance to perform prepared repertoire to your peers and receive feedback on developing all aspects of performance.

Repertoire Class

Repertoire class will give percussion players the opportunity to work as a section and explore the finer details of the orchestral repertoire and the different instruments needed across the section.

Percussion Ensemble

Conducted by Calum , an end of week sharing will demonstrate the range of areas explored throughout the summer school.  It will highlight solo, duo, chamber and ensemble performances, showing the vast diversity that the percussion world has to offer.

This Summer School is for talented musicians playing at an intermediate/advanced level (minimum ABRSM Grade 5 or equivalent) on tuned and untuned percussion, who are looking for an inspiring and enriching experience.

You will be asked to submit 2 videos of the student performing, lasting no longer than 3 minutes each when booking onto the course

• 1 video should demonstrate your current ability on tuned percussion
• 1 video should demonstrate your current ability on untuned percussion

This course is open to young percussionists aged 12—18 years old, Grade 5+ (ABRSM or equivalent) who are looking for a fun, inspirational musical experience.

During the course you will:

• achieve a greater awareness of the physical aspects of playing percussion, including body percussion
• explore the various techniques required for tuned and un-tuned percussion
• explore world percussion, hand drumming and hand-held accessories
• build repertoire for examination recitals
• gain greater confidence in performing for an audience
• meet like-minded percussionists and enhance your experience of ensemble skills

Students are asked to prepare at least one piece for any of the disciplines (timpani, snare drum or tuned percussion) so that they can be placed in an appropriate group.

Please bring along your sticks and mallets and wear loose comfortable clothing.

The course runs Monday, 29 July – Friday, 2 August, from 10am to 5pm.

There will be a short sharing of the work students have been engaging with on the Friday afternoon for invited family and friends.

Summer Accommodation

We are pleased to welcome students from across the world to our Summer Schools. Our course fees do not include accommodation or food, and these should be organised by the student. Our campus is located in Glasgow city centre, and you can find the addresses below.

We recommend Base Glasgow, as purpose-built accommodation for Conservatoire students, with Rehearsal Rooms, Practice spaces and Dance Studios. Base Glasgow is perfectly suited for our summer school students; both safe and secure, with 24/7 staff presence and only 3 mins walk from our main Renfrew Street building, keeping travel costs to a minimum.

Classic En-Suite rooms come with a 3/4 bed, en-suite bathroom, ample storage, mirror, study desk and chair. The shared area includes a spacious lounge and kitchen area.

Please note that Short Courses staff are not affiliated with BASE or on site outwith the summer school teaching hours, and therefore cannot take responsibility for students outside of these hours.

For more information about booking accommodation at BASE Glasgow you can contact them directly via website BASE – Student Accommodation in Glasgow or email baseglasgow@herestudents.com.

Alternatively, there are plenty of hotels, hostels, and b’n’b options available. We are located close to transport links should you wish to stay outside the city centre. If you are travelling to Glasgow for a course, we strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance that covers course fees, travel, accommodation, and cancellations due to COVID-19 – as RCS will not refund in this circumstance. You can view the Cancellations and Refund policy for full information.

For students under 18 years old, we strongly advise travelling with a responsible adult should any emergency situations arise during class. Students are only monitored by staff during class times.

Renfrew Street Campus: 100 Renfrew Street, Glasgow, G2 3DB
Wallace Studios Campus: 210 Garscube Road, Glasgow, G4 9RR