Founded in 1822, the Royal Academy of Music’s impact on musical life, both in the UK and abroad, is inestimable. The music profession is permeated at all levels with Academy alumni, including classical giants Sir Simon Rattle and Sir Harrison Birtwistle, and pop stars Sir Elton John and Annie Lennox. The Academy presents over 400 public events every year, ranging from high profile operas and symphony orchestra concerts (many in the portrait-lined Duke's Hall) to master classes, research discussions, museum demonstrations and more. The museum displays material from the Academy’s world renowned collection of instruments, manuscripts, objects and images. It hosts regular exhibitions and events, including daily live demonstrations on our historic pianos. We welcome students, educational groups, families and members of the general public. Many of the portraits in the collection represent those connected with the Academy through its distinguished history, as performers, composers, teachers and supporters. Of particular interest are depictions of musical children by John Russell, William Beechey, John Sanders and John Lucas. Paintings bequeathed by pianist Harriet Cohen include works by John Napper, Edward Wolfe, André Derain and William George Scott.