Denmark’s oldest music academy has been training generations of artists for more than two centuries — here’s how to visit this Copenhagen landmark

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Charlie Maudsley

 ·  June 25, 2026

Founded in 1754, The Royal Danish Academy of Music (RDAM) in Copenhagen, or Det Kongelige Danske Musikkonservatorium, is a historic institution that has educated artists and architects for more than 250 years. It stands as Denmark’s oldest music academy and is home to Radiohuset—the former headquarters of the national broadcaster DR that now houses a striking concert hall.

At this distinguished venue, guests can enjoy a range of musical experiences, from Candlelight concerts that recreate classical compositions and modern-day hits to recitals, masterclasses and immersive shows. 

Founding and legacy, move to Radiohuset & architectural highlights of RDAM

Founded in 1867 by composer Niels W. Gade, with the Queen of Denmark as its patron, RDAM has grown into Denmark’s leading music conservatory, offering top‑tier training across virtually every musical style.

Although it was originally based in central Copenhagen, it moved in 2008 to its current home in vibrant Frederiksberg, housed in an impressive neoclassical building.

Originally built in the 1940s, it features sweeping balconies and polished wooden interiors, creating a wonderfully atmospheric setting for all kinds of performances.

What can you do at The Royal Danish Academy of Music?

At The Royal Danish Academy of Music you can study classical music at a very high international level, taking programmes in performance, composition, conducting, church music, pedagogy and more, while working closely with professors in one‑to‑one lessons, ensembles, and larger orchestras.

Candlelight concerts at The Royal Danish Academy of Music wrap the historic Radiohuset hall in a soft, flickering glow, turning its wood-panelled interiors and balconies into an intimate, almost dreamlike setting where the music feels closer, warmer, and more emotional than in a standard classical performance.

Where is The Royal Danish Academy of Music and how to get there?

The Royal Danish Academy of Music is in the Radiohuset building on the corner of Rosenørns Allé and Julius Thomsens Gade in Frederiksberg, right next to Forum Metro station, which is served by lines M1 and M2, and you can also get there by nearby bus routes such as 2A, 68, and 250S, by bike, or via paid street parking in the surrounding municipal zones.

Is the venue accessible for people with reduced mobility?

The venue is described as wheelchair accessible in event listings, with accessible seating options available for concerts.

How much is tuition at The Royal Danish Academy of Music?

For EU/EEA students, tuition at The Royal Danish Academy of Music is free, while non‑EU/EEA students pay programme‑dependent fees that are typically in the roughly 10,000–15,000 € per year range, with some scholarships and grants available to help reduce costs.

Is there parking at The Royal Danish Academy of Music?

Parking around The Royal Danish Academy of Music is available on surrounding streets in both Frederiksberg and Copenhagen municipal parking zones, but spaces can be limited at busy times, and you must follow local pay‑and‑display or app‑based zone rules as shown on the municipal parking maps.

Nearby Venues in Copenhagen

Around The Royal Danish Academy of Music you’ll find plenty of other cultural hotspots, including the multi-purpose venue Forum Copenhagen, the historic Falconer Salen and major city attractions like Tivoli Gardens and Hard Rock Cafe.