The Royal Irish Academy of Music:

A Legacy of Musical Excellence and Educational Influence


Music has always held a special place in the hearts of the Irish people, with a rich and vibrant tradition that spans centuries. At the heart of this musical legacy lies the Royal Irish Academy of Music (RIAM), an institution that has played a pivotal role in shaping Ireland's musical landscape and nurturing countless talented musicians. From its humble beginnings to its influential role in the educational syllabus, the RIAM stands as a testament to the power of music education and the enduring pursuit of artistic excellence.




The Birth of the Royal Irish Academy of Music

The Royal Irish Academy of Music (RIAM) traces its origins back to 1848 when it was founded as the Dublin Academy of Music. At that time, a group of visionary musicians and scholars recognised the need for a dedicated institution to provide world-class music education in Ireland. The founding members, including composer John Andrew Stevenson and organist William Vincent Wallace, sought to create an institution that would nurture talent, elevate musical standards, and promote the arts.

  • Early Years and Growth:

In its early years, the Dublin Academy of Music rapidly gained prominence and became a central hub for musical training and performance in Ireland. The institution attracted renowned musicians and educators, and its reputation for excellence spread far and wide. As its student body grew and its influence expanded, the academy underwent several relocations to accommodate its increasing needs.

  • Royal Charter and Renaming:

In 1872, the Dublin Academy of Music received a royal charter, officially becoming the Royal Irish Academy of Music. This prestigious recognition affirmed its position as a leading institution for music education in Ireland. With the royal charter, the RIAM became an official part of the country's cultural landscape and further solidified its commitment to fostering musical excellence.

  • Development and Modernisation:

Throughout the 20th century, the RIAM continued to evolve and adapt to the changing musical landscape. It embraced new teaching methodologies, incorporated innovative technologies, and expanded its curriculum to encompass a wide range of musical disciplines. The academy's commitment to keeping pace with musical trends while maintaining its traditional values has allowed it to remain at the forefront of music education in Ireland.

  • Alumni and Influence:

Over the years, the RIAM has nurtured and produced an impressive roster of alumni who have made significant contributions to the music world. Many graduates have achieved notable success as performers, composers, conductors, educators, and musicologists, both nationally and internationally. Their accomplishments stand as a testament to the rigorous training and high standards upheld by the academy.

  • Collaborations and Partnerships:

The RIAM has fostered collaborations and partnerships with esteemed musical organisations, both within Ireland and abroad. These alliances have provided students with unique performance opportunities, masterclasses with world-class artists, and exposure to diverse musical traditions. Such collaborations have enriched the educational experience at the RIAM and broadened students' horizons, enabling them to develop a global perspective on music.

  • Preservation of Irish Musical Heritage

Central to the RIAM's mission is the preservation and promotion of Ireland's rich musical heritage. The academy has been instrumental in safeguarding traditional Irish music and incorporating it into its curriculum. By incorporating elements of Irish musical traditions, such as Irish traditional music, sean-nós singing, and Irish harp, the RIAM ensures that students receive a comprehensive education that celebrates the unique cultural identity of Ireland.



.Sure there's the lads now, back in the sepia days...
Educational Influence
The Royal Irish Academy of Music stands as a beacon of musical excellence and educational influence in Ireland. Its legacy, rooted in a deep appreciation for music and a commitment to nurturing talent, has shaped generations of musicians and contributed to the rich cultural tapestry of the nation. From its early days to its present stature, the RIAM continues to foster the growth of aspiring musicians, leaving an indelible mark on the Irish musical landscape. Through its educational syllabus, community outreach, and dedication to artistic excellence, the RIAM ensures that the harmonious melodies of Ireland will continue to resonate for generations to come.

  • Nurturing Musical Talent:
Throughout its storied history, the RIAM has consistently upheld its mission to nurture and cultivate musical talent. By offering a comprehensive range of music programs, from instrumental and vocal studies to composition and musicology, the institution has fostered the growth and development of countless aspiring musicians. Its faculty, comprised of distinguished artists and educators, provide mentorship and guidance, ensuring students receive a well-rounded and rigorous musical education.

  • Contributing to the Educational Syllabus:
One of the remarkable contributions of the RIAM lies in its involvement with the educational syllabus in Ireland. Recognising the significance of music in a well-rounded education, the RIAM has played a pivotal role in shaping music education at various levels. It has actively collaborated with educational authorities, curriculum developers, and music educators to establish and refine music syllabi that align with international standards while also incorporating Irish musical traditions.

  • Graded Examinations and Certification:
The RIAM's graded examination system stands as a hallmark of its educational influence. The rigorously structured examination process offers students a clear path of progression and a means to assess their musical achievements. From initial grades to advanced diplomas, these examinations provide students with valuable opportunities to showcase their skills and receive formal recognition for their accomplishments. The RIAM's reputation for excellence in examinations has made it a respected benchmark in music education in Ireland and beyond.

  • Community Outreach and Performance Opportunities:
Beyond its role in formal music education, the RIAM actively engages with the community, seeking to enrich the cultural fabric of Ireland. Through various outreach programs, concerts, and collaborations with other artistic organisations, the RIAM extends its reach beyond the classroom, inspiring a love for music in people of all ages and backgrounds. The institution also offers numerous performance opportunities, allowing students to hone their skills on stage and share their musical talents with a wider audience.



 Education is fun!

RIAM Educational Books and Syllabus Material

The RIAM exam books are a comprehensive series of educational resources designed to support students in their musical development. These books cover a wide range of musical aspects, including technique, repertoire, music theory, sight-reading, and aural skills. They provide a structured and progressive curriculum for students of all levels, from beginners to advanced players. The books are organised into different grades, starting with the Elementary Grade Exam Books for beginners, and progressing through the Preliminary Grade Exam Books and Grade Exam Books (Grades 1-8). The High Achiever Series caters to advanced students aiming for a higher level of musical proficiency. The Popular Selection Exam Books offer alternative repertoire options to cater to diverse musical interests. Additionally, the Theory Exam Books cover the theoretical aspects of music education. Overall, these exam books serve as valuable resources for students, providing them with a well-rounded musical education, guidance in their studies, and a pathway to measure their progress and achievement in line with the RIAM curriculum.


Here's a selection of some of the many titles available

The RIAM Let's Get Reading Series is a collection of educational resources designed to develop and enhance sight-reading skills for musicians of all levels. This series is specifically tailored to support students preparing for sight-reading exams and aims to improve their ability to read and interpret music fluently. Each book in the series offers a graded progression of exercises and musical examples, covering a wide range of musical styles and genres. By practicing with the Let's Get Reading Series, students can strengthen their sight-reading skills, become more confident in reading unfamiliar musical notation, and ultimately enhance their overall musicianship.



The RIAM Music Workout Series is a comprehensive collection of educational resources designed to support music students in their technical development. These books offer a structured and progressive approach to developing essential instrumental skills. The series covers various aspects of technique, including scales, arpeggios, studies, and exercises, tailored to specific instruments such as piano, violin, guitar, and more. With a focus on building technical proficiency, the Music Workout Series provides students with a wide range of exercises to improve finger dexterity, hand coordination, articulation, and overall instrumental mastery. By incorporating these exercises into their practice routine, students can enhance their technique, develop a solid foundation, and achieve a higher level of musicianship on their chosen instrument.


The RIAM Piano Album Series is a collection of carefully curated piano repertoire that offers a diverse selection of pieces for pianists of all levels. These albums feature a range of musical styles, from classical masterpieces to contemporary compositions. Each album is thoughtfully compiled to provide students with a well-rounded repertoire that enhances their technical skills, musicianship, and expressive abilities. The pieces within the series are chosen to align with the RIAM exam syllabus, ensuring that students can prepare for their exams while exploring a variety of musical genres. Whether for performance, study, or pure enjoyment, the RIAM Piano Album Series offers a rich and engaging selection of piano music that inspires and challenges pianists on their musical journey.



These excellent RIAM exam books offer a comprehensive and structured approach to music education, catering to students of all levels and musical interests. From the foundational elementary grades to the advanced High Achiever Series, these books provide a wealth of repertoire, technical exercises, theory materials, and aural tests. By following the curriculum outlined in these books, students can develop their skills, broaden their musical horizons, and achieve recognised certifications in their musical pursuits.

Here at Musicmaker, we've been providing advice and support for music and music education for more than 40 years, If you have any questions about any of the RIAM titles or any other educational material, please get in touch via the Intercom button in the bottom left or the Contact page. We are always happy to help.