Manchester has earned its place as one of the UK’s greatest music cities—home to legendary bands like Oasis, The Smiths, and The 1975. Today, the city continues to thrive as a creative hub where aspiring musicians, producers, sound engineers, and performers come to sharpen their craft. Fortunately, Manchester offers a long list of reputable music schools with fully equipped studios, world-class instructors, and industry-standard training programs.
This guide breaks down the Top 15 Music Schools in Manchester, their specialisations, program details, and estimated fees so you can choose the right institution for your music journey.
Top 15 Music Schools In Manchester And Fees
1. Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM)
The Royal Northern College of Music is arguably the most prestigious conservatoire in Manchester. It delivers elite-level training for classical, jazz, contemporary, and performance students. RNCM is known for its international faculty, world-class facilities, and highly competitive entry process. Students enjoy access to performance halls, ensemble rooms, professional recording studios, and more than 450 annual concerts.
Programs Offered:
- Bachelor of Music
- Master’s Degrees in Performance, Composition & Conducting
- Junior RNCM Program
- Specialist summer schools & professional development workshops
Estimated Fees:
- UK Students: £9,250 per year
- International Students: £27,500 per year
- Short courses: £500 – £3,000
RNCM is ideal for serious musicians committed to a long-term professional career.
2. BIMM Institute Manchester (British & Irish Modern Music Institute)
BIMM Manchester is one of the UK’s top modern music colleges, focusing on real-world training for singers, instrumentalists, producers, songwriters, and music business students. Known for linking students with top industry figures, BIMM offers collaborative opportunities with record labels, festivals, and live venues across the city.
Programs Offered:
- BA (Hons) in Music Production
- BA (Hons) in Songwriting
- BA (Hons) in Vocal or Instrumental Performance
- BA (Hons) in Music Business
Estimated Fees:
- UK Students: £9,250 per year
- International Students: £16,650 per year
If you want modern, industry-driven music training, BIMM is a top pick.
3. Spirit Studios (School of Sound Engineering & Music Production)
Founded in 1984, Spirit Studios is Manchester’s leading school for audio engineering, electronic music, mixing, mastering, and live sound. The studio has produced Grammy-winning alumni and offers hands-on learning with real equipment.
Programs Offered:
- BSc (Hons) Audio Engineering
- Electronic Music Production Courses
- Studio Engineering Diplomas
- Live Sound Training
Estimated Fees:
- Degree Programs: £9,250 per year
- Short Courses: £600 – £2,500
Perfect for future sound engineers or producers.
4. Manchester School of Music (University of Manchester)
The University of Manchester offers a highly respected academic program for students focused on composition, musicology, ethnomusicology, and performance. It balances deep theory with creative practice.
Programs Offered:
- BA in Music
- MA & PhD in Musicology, Composition & Performance
Estimated Fees:
- UK Students: £9,250 per year
- International Students: £26,000 per year
Ideal for academic-driven musicians wanting both research and performance training.
5. The Manchester College – School of Music & Performance
This college is known for its vocational approach and affordable programs. Students gain practical experience through live performances, studio sessions, and project-based assessments.
Programs Offered:
- Level 2 & 3 Diplomas in Music
- HND in Music Performance or Production
- Foundation Degrees
Estimated Fees:
- FE Courses: Free – £2,500 (UK students)
- HE Courses: £9,000 per year
A budget-friendly option for beginners and intermediate musicians.
6. Chetham’s School of Music
Chetham’s is the largest specialist music school in the UK for young people aged 8–18. It prepares talented young musicians for conservatoire auditions and national performances.
Programs Offered:
- Full-time specialist music education
- Junior music program
- Summer intensives
Estimated Fees:
- Day Students: £24,000 per year
- Boarding: £38,000 per year
(Bursaries available)
Best suited for highly gifted young musicians.
7. Salford University – Music & Media School
Known for its strong media, audio technology, and recording programs, Salford University provides cutting-edge facilities including state-of-the-art recording studios and live rooms.
Programs Offered:
- BA in Music
- BSc in Audio Production
- MA in Composition & Sound Design
Estimated Fees:
- UK Students: £9,250 per year
- International Students: £16,500 per year
Good for those wanting academic and technical training.
8. Access Creative College Manchester
Access Creative College is an alternative for young creatives seeking high-energy, modern training in DJing, music production, and performance.
Programs Offered:
- Level 2 & 3 Diplomas in Music Performance
- Music Production Courses
- DJ Technology
Estimated Fees:
- UK Students (16–18): Free
- Adult Courses: £3,000 – £6,000
A popular choice for developing artists.
9. Futureworks School of Media & Music
This school emphasises music production, sound design, and audio post-production for film, TV, and games.
Programs Offered:
- BA in Music Production
- BSc Audio Engineering
- Diploma Courses
Estimated Fees:
- Degree Courses: £9,250 per year
- Short Courses: £600 – £1,800
Great for students wanting industry-specific audio skills.
10. Manchester Midi School (Sano Studio)
This school specialises in electronic music, DJing, and studio technology. It’s popular among aspiring EDM, techno, and house music producers.
Programs Offered:
- Music Production Diplomas
- Electronic Music Masterclasses
- DJ Courses
Estimated Fees:
- Courses: £600 – £4,500
Perfect for modern producers and DJs.
11. Nordoff Robbins Manchester Centre
Nordoff Robbins is the UK’s leading provider of music therapy. Their Manchester centre offers highly specialised training in therapeutic music practice.
Programs Offered:
- Master’s in Music Therapy
- CPD Training Programs
Estimated Fees:
- MA Program: £9,000 – £12,000 per year
Ideal for musicians aiming to work in healthcare settings.
12. The Music Place Manchester
This school focuses on private lessons, group classes, and ensemble experiences for children and adults. They offer flexible schedules and personalised instruction.
Programs Offered:
- Piano, guitar, vocal & drum lessons
- Early years music classes
- Ensemble development
Estimated Fees:
- Private Lessons: £20 – £45 per hour
A great choice for hobbyists or part-time learners.
13. MAPAS Music School (Salford)
MAPAS is a community-focused music school offering affordable training for kids and adults. Its programs encourage performance through bands, orchestras, and community concerts.
Programs Offered:
- Instrument tuition
- Group & ensemble lessons
- Youth orchestras
Estimated Fees:
- Lessons: £7 – £12 per session
Affordable for families and beginners.
14. One Education Music Manchester
This centre works heavily with schools across Manchester, offering instrumental tuition and vocal lessons for kids and teenagers.
Programs Offered:
- In-school music tuition
- Private lessons
- Band coaching
Estimated Fees:
- Lessons: £6 – £18 per session
Great for young learners.
15. The Harmony Hub Manchester
This reputable studio offers private coaching in singing, composition, and instrumental performance. It’s ideal for learners who prefer one-to-one instruction.
Programs Offered:
- Vocal coaching
- Piano & guitar lessons
- Beginner to advanced training
Estimated Fees:
- £20 – £40 per hour
A flexible and friendly school for all ages.
Conclusion
Manchester remains one of the best cities in the UK to study music—thanks to its vibrant culture, world-famous music scene, and top-tier schools. Whether you want classical training, modern production skills, voice coaching, or academic study, you’ll find a music institution that matches your goals.