The Music Aptitude Test is designed to measure a student’s natural aptitude in music and not a test of musical ability. Alll the students with, or without musical experience and there is no minimum music grade requirement to apply for Music Specialism or Music Scholar place a s part of 11+ state secondary transer admission  process or entry into year 7 of the Consortium and selective schools throughout the UK.

To be eligible to be considered for a music place, it depends upon the student’s ranked position for a music place at the time of offers being made, within the band of the highest scores in the music aptitude test.

A music specialism holder or music scholar is a student who upholds the highest standards of musical ability and serves as an inspiration to other students. They require to possess high content knowledge of music areas by achieving extremely high score in music aptitude tests, listening test, aural, auditions, and interview. They are given additional support in between their instrumental lessons.

Our wealth of teaching experience and knowledge of Music Aptitude Test can guide students more in depth learning with understanding, focus on potential weaker areas with further practice, and useful hints to dramatically maximise developing a student’s full potential of music listening skills.

The 11 plus Music Aptitude Test training are structured and progressive courses which integrate with music elements to build your child’s confidence and learning support towards their Music Aptitude Test (MAT).

Music Aptitude Test Training Courses / Music Specialism  Programme including:

• Music elements: pitch, melody (tune), texture (chord & instrumental) & rhythm
• Including tempo, pulse, mood, music appreciation & graphics score.
• Tips for improving music listening.
• Develop the Aural Skills with understanding.
• Ability to hear and visualize music works.
• Customized lessons with students’ own pace to consolidate their listening skills.
• Must-know skills to tackle tricky questions.

MAT Practice Tests recorded digital audio download practice tests with a separate pdf question and answer sheets, with 5 different levels can be purchased as individual tests or multipacks for regular home practice resources. This helpful learning resources can greatly enhance the effectiveness of the listening skills and familiar with the test formats before taking Music Aptitude Test at the school of your child’s choice.

Music awards (scholarships & exhibitions) are offered annually at the age of 11+ (Year 7) & 13+ (Year 9) and 16+ (Year 12) of their private school entry. Music awards are rewarded strictly on music abilities and enthusiastic potential as tested at audition and interview by their school director of music. To discover the signs of potential, talent and interest rather than on actual attainment or achievement. Potential children should have a satisfactory performance with a genuine music enthusiasm could consider applying their school Music Awards.

Due to difficulty get an accurate assessment of a child’s musical ability and potential at age as young as 10 years old. Expected standard of potential candidates (although they may not have taken an examination).

For private school, music scholar needs to perform 2 instruments, or voice and one instruments. It is not essential for candidates to have taken music examinations but, as a guide, the standard expected on the principal instrument corresponds with exceptional performance skills

1. For entry at 11+ (year 7), candidates should have reached at least Grade 5 or higher on their main instruments For entry at 13+ (year 9), attained at least Grade 6 standard or higher.
2.  For entry at 16+ (year 12), at least Grade 8 or higher is required.

• Perform two contrasting pieces on their principal instrument and one or two piece on their second.
• Sight-read
• Respond to Aural/Ear test
• Written composition, if applicable
• Answer general questions relating to their music making

Music Scholars & exhibitions will be awarded free instrument tuition on one or two instruments. Music scholars will bring some remission of school fees which depends on the level of the award. Opportunity to perform in a wide range of ensembles and learn challenging repertoire by participating full part in the musical life of the school.

Music awards are generally having the following minimum standard:

• First meet the normal academic requirements of the school entry
• Genuine enthusiasm for making music
• Expected to contribute fully to the musical life of the school
• Prepared to commit to attending both rehearsals and performances according to their interests and expertise.

Award holders’ satisfactory conduct, attitude, contribution and progress are reviewed and monitored annually for their award continuance.  Please visit your child’s school website or contact Director of Music for further detail.

ABRSM graded examinations are QCA-accredited at three levels in the National Qualifications Framework:

• Grades 1–3 at Level 1 (Foundation: equivalent to GCSE grades 3–1)
• Grades 4–5 at Level 2 (Intermediate: GCSE grades 9–4)
• Grades 6–8 at Level 3 (Advanced: A-Level).

GCSE Music requires students (age 14-16) to analyse and listen to a wide range of musical genres, styles, and traditions; understand the cultural, social, and historical contexts in which music is created, and understand music technical skills, theory, and knowledge. It is a comprehensive and challenging course of music study for students who are passionate about music and who wish to continue developing their musical skills and knowledge.

1. Appraising  Music (Listening & contextual understanding):
A) Listening-unfamiliar music
B) Study piece

2. Performing Music
A) Solo performance
B) Ensemble performance

3. Composing Music
A) Composition to a brief
B) Free composition

A Level Music is an advanced level qualification, and it is useful qualification for those interested in further study at university level or related fields or pursuing a career in the music industry.

The A Level Music specification varies depending on the examination boards, but students are expected to have a broad knowledge, deep understanding of music theory, musical context and music technology, and further develop practical and analytical skills. The exam typically covers the following topics:

1. Appraising Music (musical techniques, styles, and historical context)
   A) Listening
   B) Analysis
   C) Essay- Contextual understanding
2. Performing Music (Technical ability, expression, interpretation)
   A) Solo performance
   B) Ensemble performance
   C) Realisation using music technology
3. Composing Music (understanding of harmony, structure melody, and texture)
   A) Composition to a brief
   B) Free composition