Royal School of Church Music
The Royal School of Church Music is an international charity dedicated to supporting and developing church music through training, publications and events. Founded in 1927, the organisation works with churches, schools and musicians around the world to nurture singing, develop musical skills and sustain high standards in worship.
About Royal School of Church Music
The RSCM’s work centres on a range of well-established programmes and initiatives. Voice for Life provides a structured training scheme for singers of all ages, helping choirs develop musicianship and vocal skills through progressive awards. Church Music Skills offers practical training and accreditation for church musicians, while Hymnpact! supports singing in schools and encourages connections between schools and their local churches.
Alongside these programmes, the organisation publishes a wide range of music and training materials through RSCM Press, and produces regular publications including Church Music Quarterly and the liturgical planning guide Sunday by Sunday.
The RSCM also runs courses, workshops and festivals throughout the year, supporting singers, organists, directors of music and worship leaders at every stage of their development.
National initiatives such as the RSCM Youth Choir provide performance and training opportunities for young singers.
Working collaboratively with churches, music organisations and educational partners, the RSCM continues to champion high-quality church music and support those who lead it. As the organisation approaches its centenary in 2027, it remains committed to strengthening the tradition of church music and ensuring it continues to flourish in communities around the world.
Watch
An excerpt from Songs of the Spirit, a major new work commissioned by award-winning British composer Thomas Hewitt Jones to celebrate the RSCM's centenary in 2027. Choirs are invited to become co-commissioners in this project in exchange for exclusive benefits. Visit the RSCM website for full details.
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All opportunitiesLatest from Royal School of Church Music
- News17 Jun 2026RSCM launches new award for young church musicians
The Royal School of Church Music has launched a new award recognising young musicians who are making a significant contribution to the flourishing of church music.
- NewsPartner News21 Apr 2026RSCM applications for two key Choir Project roles close on 28 April
The Royal School of Church Music is inviting applications for vacancies within The Choir Project, its partnership initiative with the Church of England.
- Appointment20 Apr 2026RSCM appoints Sarah King as Deputy Director for Education
The Royal School of Church Music has appointed Sarah King as its new Deputy Director for Education, with the role beginning in June.
- News23 Feb 2026Royal School of Church Music and Church Music Society announce publishing partnership
The Royal School of Church Music (RSCM) and the Church Music Society (CMS) have announced a new partnership that will see the RSCM become the exclusive publisher for all CMS titles from 2 March 2026.
- News16 Feb 2026Royal School of Church Music secures £400,000 for national youth choir initiative
More than 200 new or revitalised parish church choirs for children and young people are set to be launched across England following a £400,000 investment from the Church of England.
- News04 Feb 2026Alexandra Skevington wins RSCM Harold Smart Composition Competition 2025
The Royal School of Church Music has announced Alexandra Skevington as the winner of the 2025 Harold Smart Composition Competition. Judges described the field as exceptionally strong and were unanimous in their admiration for Skevington’s submission.