Its aim is to provide advanced tuition not normally available within the statutory sector by bringing internationally recognised teachers to Aberdeen on a regular basis.
Entry to the school is by audition on the basis of musical ability regardless of age but limited to persons living in Scotland.
[1] The school is financed through a mixture of corporate sponsorship, donations from trusts and individuals, and volunteer fund-raising.
Students pay their own (subsidised) fees but competitive scholarships are awarded annually on a balance of musical potential and financial need.
Patrons include Murray McLachlan, Eileen Croxford Parkhouse, Evelyn Glennie, Fiona Kennedy, Paul Mealor, Lisa Milne and Neil Mackie.