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Composition and Contemporary Music

Head of Composition:
Professor Simon Bainbridge FRCM, Hon RAM

Senior Administrator:
Helen Thorp BA, Hon ARAM

Music Support Administrator:
Tabby Cheyne BA

Telephone 020 7873 7479
Email composition@ram.ac.uk

Chris Brown (BMus)

(Picture: Photo of Chris Brown at a sound mixing desk)

‘I came to the Academy primarily as a composer of commercial music. The new combined course has allowed me to write several media based compositions, and has also given me the opportunity to learn more about contemporary writing. Already this year I have written TV theme tunes for orchestra, a song for a jazz trio, a sextet and pieces for various wind ensembles.

Whilst studying here, I have written for many different ensembles ranging from orchestra to a jazz trio. All of our finished work is performed to a high standard by Academy players.

Whatever instrument I’m writing for, I can always find players to try things out and help answer any questions I have— this is an invaluable part of studying at a conservatoire. The professors take an active interest in our work and represent a broad range of different styles within the industry. Their expertise is essential in preparation for the challenges we’ll face in the real world.’


‘One of the premier places to learn how to play or compose classical music and opera—jazz and media music, too’
The Independent, April 2004

‘There were no vacant thoughts from the Royal Academy of Music student composers in the Manson Ensemble concert with Peter Maxwell Davies. These world premieres filled fewer minutes and clung tightly to their composition gambits. All received gutsy performances from the Royal Academy of Music students; this was a concert full of hope’
The Times, June 2006