Ida Carroll is a prolific composer. Her music teaching experience began as a pupil at the Northern School of Music, then as a board clerk, as a deputy and acting director, and eventually as head of the NSM from 1958 to 1971. She is commonly remembered for her passionate devotion to the NSM and its teachers. She was contributory in merging the NSM and Royal Manchester College of Music to become the Royal Northern College of Music.

The Royal Northern College of Music subsequently replaced her as a compañero and dean of administration. She was President of the Association of Old Students and a member of the Association of Friends of the Institution. She also became President of the Incorporated Society of Musicians following her departure from college. Ida Carroll was an individual bass player and a participant of numerous groups, including Chetham's School of Music, European String Teachers Union, and the National Jewish Orchestra, and was a full-time musician career.