Tchaikovsky’s letters, a flute made of bone and much more await at RNCM’s archive heritage open days

Known worldwide for its exceptional musical education and captivating performances, the RNCM’s rich collection of instruments, letters from renowned composers, historic photographs, and rare recordings is a treasure trove waiting to be unveiled.

And best of all, you can get involved during their Heritage Open Days which take place on September 16 and 17.

So don’t just take our word for it, go and see these treasures for yourself.

The RNCM’s collection includes pieces that tell the College’s own story and the early story of Manchester music, as an organisation that was formed in 1973 from a merger of the Royal Manchester College of Music (RMCM) which was founded by Sir Charles Hallé in 1893 and the Northern School of Music (NSM) which began its life in 1920.

It’s also an internationally significant collection, with pieces that are both extremely rare and extraordinary.

Not normally open to the public, during Heritage Open Days visitors are invited to enjoy behind-the-scenes tours of the College, take part in Family Friendly craft activities and relish the chance to explore the museum.

The weekend will also see the launch of a new Digital Heritage Booth, which will be permanently located at the College for people to drop in and listen to incredible symphonies and masterclasses that have taken place over many years.

All of the activities are free, too.

The Highlights of RNCM’s Collection

A lot of the instruments in the Collection of Historic Instruments (of which there are 375!) have to be seen to be believed.

Amongst the beautifully ornate marquetry, decoratively carved wood and delicately finished details are some real feasts for the imagination.

The Curious

One of the favourite objects of younger visitors is an instrument that looks like it belongs in a fairy tale with its fantastical serpent’s head.

In fact it is a buccin brass trombone that would have originated in France around 1830 and was designed to be a celebratory instrument, with the head of the serpent appearing over the head of its player parading in carnivals and festivals.

Another curiosity dates back to the late 1800s and at some point made its way from Tibet to Manchester.

Known as a kangling, which literally translates as leg-flute, it is rather gruesomely made from a human thighbone and is a sacred instrument that would have been used in special spiritual rights.

The priceless

The shining jewel of the RNCM’s collection is a piccolo violin made by Antonio Stradivari himself in 1685 in his home town of Cremona, Italy.

It is in fabulous condition despite its age and even though it shows some signs of wear and damage it is still on occasion used in very special performances at the College.

A little more challenging to play, but possible in the right hands, is a 1901 violin made by John Shaw of Manchester, which measures just over 10cm long! It is believed to be the world’s smallest playable violin and is perfect in every detail.

Perfectly composed

They are some of the finest composers the world has ever seen, but perhaps less well known is that Tchaikovsky, Elgar and Brahms were also friends who regularly corresponded with each other sending letters back and forth.

These fascinating letters now form part of the RNCM’s collection and place history within your grasp.

There many composers represented in the collection.

Some in rather unusual ways, and this includes a cast of Chopin’s left hand and a lock of Mendelssohn’s hair!