*
banner

Birmingham Conservatoire tops student survey

Birmingham Conservatoire's BMus (Hons) Composition, Performance and Jazz courses come out on top in the non-independent category of the National Student Survey.

blackboard
 

It has been confirmed that Birmingham Conservatoire has been found to be the highest rated 'non-independent' music college in the 2015 National Student Survey.

Leading non-independent

Part of Birmingham City University, the Conservatoire's BMus (Hons) Composition, Performance and Jazz courses averaged out at 91% for overall student satisfaction — leading the 'non-independent' category alongside the Royal Northern College of Music which gained the highest score for an independent conservatoire (86%).

In comparison, the Royal College of Music scored 85%, Guildhall School of Music and Drama 83%, the Royal Academy of Music 82%, Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance 80%, the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland 79% and the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama 78%.

Exceptional

Birmingham Conservatoire Principal, Julian Lloyd Webber stated: "There is a misconception that the only place to train as a musician is in London.

But with world-class concert halls, such as Town Hall and Symphony Hall, and close connections with leading orchestras such as the City of Birmingham Symphony (CBSO) supporting the training delivered by our exceptional staff, a young musician can receive all the training they need to compete in the modern music industry right here in Birmingham."

There is a misconception that the only place to train as a musician is in LondonBirmingham Conservatoire Principal, Julian Lloyd Webber

Annual survey

The annual National Student Survey looks at all publicly funded Higher Education Institutions in England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the majority in Scotland over a four month period of time (January to April) — to give an overall satisfaction score of their course and their educational experience.

Become a supporter and help make our future secure.

4barsrest continues to be a proudly independent voice. There are no paywalls to overcome to be able to enjoy what we do to keep our journalism at the heart of the brass banding world. Support us with a one-off donation or subscribe from just £2.50 per month.

Support us    


Sparke

All preview roads lead to the Albert Hall...

September 28 • You can hear how the competing bands are getting on with their final preparations on Philip Sparke's work ahead of the National Final at the Royal Hall this weekend.


Hobury Victoria

Results: 2026 Red Admiral Entertainment Contest

September 28 • Horbury hit double top to defeat Championship and First Section rivals in Chorley as Golborne, Blackpool Brass and Driffield Silver also secure section victories.


Blidworth

Result: 2026 NEMBBA Entertainment Contest

September 28 • Blidworth Welfare takes the entertainment honours in Darley Dale.


Bathgate

Report & Result: 2026 Fife Charities Contest

September 27 • Bathgate claims the honours in Kirkcaldy to head on a journey to the Spring Festival.


Dobcross Silver Band -

Sunday 27 September • Dobcross Band and Social Club. Platt Lane. Dobcross. Saddleworth Oldham OL3 5AD


The Hepworth Band - Public Rehearsal ahead of the National Finals

Tuesday 29 September • Batley Town Hall WF17 5DA


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the Irish Guards

Thursday 1 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Eagle Brass

Thursday 1 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Consort Brass Quintet

Friday 2 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Chinnor Silver

September 28 • We are looking for an ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL CORNET to join our ambitious friendly 1st section band.. Rehearsals on a Wednesday in our own bandroom.. Good mix of concerts and contests and an overseas trip planned.. .


Chinnor Silver

September 28 • We are looking for an ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL CORNET to join our ambitious friendly 1st section band.. Rehearsals on a Wednesday in our own bandroom.. Good mix of concerts and contests and an overseas trip planned.. .


East London Brass

September 24 • Percussion - East London Brass are seeking an enthusiastic percussionist to join our friendly, ambitious band. Great music, regular rehearsals and a welcoming atmosphere. Interested? Get in touch for more details!


Alan Fernie

DRSAM, Dip.NCOS
Arranger, composer, adjudicator, conductor


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd