The Institute of Contemporary Music Performance (ICMP) in London has launched a new fully-funded diploma course for students under 19. The course is the first of its kind in London and is delivered in partnership with the College of North West London .

The one-year diploma in contemporary music is designed for younger students wishing to develop and practice their live band performance skills, improve their general musicianship and musical knowledge, and explore their creative potential.

For students of guitar, bass, drums and vocals aged between 16 and 18 years the programme is free, subject to a £300 specialist materials charge.

Students on the course will be encouraged to form and perform in band on a weekly basis. Students will also learn about a wide range of contemporary music styles and insights into the music business and the history of music.

The ICMP started life 25 years ago as The Guitar Institute and Basstech. It pioneered the 1991 popular music diploma and in 1995 developed the first honours degree in contemporary music in the UK . It now offers a range of professional courses including a three-year degree (BMus), a specialist one-year higher diploma and a wide portfolio of part-time courses designed to meet a variety of training needs for guitarists, bassists, drummers and vocalists.

After a successful life in Acton , the ICMP officially opened its new premises in Kilburn in November 2007, with performances from past and present degree students.

The facility was opened by the Mayor of Brent, Councillor Harshadbhai Patel, who picked up a pair of drumsticks and had a bash himself.

In the last 12 months the ICMP has invested more than £300,000 in its new facilities which include state-of-the-art performing, practice and teaching space, iMac music technology and keyboard suites and digital recording studios. ICMP students can fine-tune their playing and performing skills in live showcase events at the Luminaire club, a nearby live music venue. Leading players, performers and writers from the music industry regularly drop in to give clinics and masterclasses and students are frequently headhunted by established artists and managers.

The next ICMP open day will take place on 16 February, involving live performances, facilities demonstrations and a Q&A session from lecturers and former staff.

To book a place on the open day call 020 7328 022. ICMP 1a, Dyne Road , Kilburn NW6 7XG

www.icmp.uk.com