Recently a group of BA (Hons) Musical Instrument Craft (Woodwind Making and Repair) students embarked on a captivating visit to the Royal College of Music (RCM) Museum in London. The trip offered a unique opportunity to explore the rich history of musical instruments, with a special focus on the development of woodwind instruments.
The visit began with a guided tour through the museum’s meticulously curated collection. The students were able to see firsthand the evolution of musical instruments, a fitting exploration for the students studying the Historical and Contextual Studies module in their first year.
The carefully selected items on display provided the students with an in-depth understanding of how musical instruments have developed over centuries, and how woodwind instruments, in particular, have played a pivotal role in shaping the soundscapes of different eras.
After the tour, the students were led to the Wolfson Centre, where they had the privilege of handling some of the historic woodwind instruments in the museum’s collection. This hands-on session was not only a chance to inspect the construction and design of the instruments, but it also offered valuable insights into the changes in woodwind design over time. This was particularly relevant for the students’ Anatomy and Design of Musical Instruments module, which explores how the materials and craftsmanship of an instrument can influence its sound and playability.
The visit also sparked conversations among students about the possibility of recreating or even designing modern interpretations of these historic instruments for their future projects. For many, the trip provided a tangible connection to the craft of instrument-making, an art that they might explore in more depth as they advance in their studies.
As the visit came to a close, the students expressed their gratitude for the experience, which complemented their academic studies and further fuelled their passion for both music and instrument history.
Woodwind Making and Repair Coordinator, Patrick Abbott, said: “The RCM Museum visit was not just an academic trip; it was an inspiring journey through the history of musical instrument design.”
“It’s experiences like this that really help our students appreciate the deep connection between music, culture, and craftsmanship.”
This visit marks an important part of the students' journey through the Musical Instrument Craft degree programme, providing them with both the theoretical knowledge and the practical insight needed to refine their skills and deepen their appreciation for the rich history of musical instruments.
Learn more about the BA (Hons) Musical Instrument Craft (Woodwind Making and Repair) course.
