The Royal School of Church Music is an interdenominational association dedicated to improving Church music, regardless of style. Our leadership includes professional church musicians experienced in many styles of music from traditional to contemporary. We offer courses, activities and published resources.

Origins of RSCM

The RSCM originated in the UK in 1927 as the School of English Church Music and became the Royal School of Church Music by command of King George VI in 1945. There are now branches all over the world. There are over 7,000 active members and affiliates world-wide, and 1,500 supporting friends in over 40 countries.

RSCM Australia was born out of a desire to bring together the former Australian branches of the Royal School of Church Music under a single administration. RSCM Australia represents a national voice in church music, and aims to develop co-operative and formal links with the major church bodies in Australia.

There are currently active branches in ACT, NSW, QLD, SA, VIC & WA.

Our Goals

• To promote the study, worthy practice and improvement of music in Christian worship in Australia.
• To facilitate communication between church musicians of all Christian denominations in Australia.
• To encourage the composition and publication of church music in Australia.
• To conduct educational activities in keeping with the above aims.
• To establish formal links with Christian denominations and organisations within Australia.
• To develop, promote, and administer award or certificate schemes at various levels, specifically related to church music in Australia.

What we offer

• RSCM Australia offers members workshops, courses, masterclasses, special services and concerts during the year in capital cities and regional/country areas, which assist church leaders, congregations and musicians in the preparation and presentation of music in worship.
• An annual week-long residential school of workshops in both Australia and New Zealand. These tutorials and services provide an opportunity for fellowship and enrichment at many levels.
• The provision to members of a variety of musical resources, published material and structured programmes suitable for choristers of all ages.
• Australian and New Zealand members receive CMQ (Church Music Quarterly) issued by RSCM UK. It is an invaluable resource with news, articles, repertoire suggestions, and music and CD reviews.
• State Branches produce a regular (usually bi-monthly) newsletter for their members.

Membership of the RSCM is available to individuals, churches and choirs

• Members enjoy access to workshops and festivals, including an annual week-long school in Australia or New Zealand generally with a prestigious international musical director.
• Opportunities to publicise your events and recitals.
• Opportunities to network with like-minded church musicians.
• Branch newsletters.
• Eligibility to enter singers for the RSCM Voice for Life awards and to apply for scholarships providing financial assistance for participation in RSCM activities.
• Depending on your membership level, the magazines Church Music Quarterly and Sunday by Sunday, published by RSCM UK, plus discounts on purchases of sheet music from RSCM UK.

Contact your State Branch for details of membership in your state.