Music Graded Exams (Practical/Theory)
Music graded exams, a standardized method of assessments, are an important tool for students to evaluate their music ability, progress, and skill proficiency. Graded exams can provide a formal qualification and recognition for students, which are recognized by many music schools and institutions, and internationally recognized. Certification of music grade 6-8, a part of Regulated Qualification Framework, can contribute UCAS points towards entry into higher education in UK.
Achieving certification of Ofqual regulated instrumental and music theory qualifications of Graded Music Examination boards (ABRSM, Trinity College London, LCM) is a way of assessing the level which provides an exciting challenge to inspire musical achievement with positive experience and many benefits for students when used in the correct way. It often acts as a motivation “booster” which comes from working preparation towards an exam. It is extremely rewarding and motivating; especially feel the sense of achievement while successfully awarding the Graded Music Certification.
What is include in a Piano Exam?
Working on Graded Music Exams requires perseverance and commitment through regular practice with a strong parental support for younger child and involvement. Students need to have a combination of skills.
Face-to-face Practical Graded exams:
- Performance skills – 3 selected exam pieces
- Technical skills – scales and arpeggios
- Notation skills – Sight-reading test
- Listening skills and music appreciation – aural testOr
Digital Performance Graded exams: (video-recording submission)
1. Performance skills – 4 selected exam pieces
2. Performance as a whole
Some Benefits of Music Graded Exmas
- Provide clear benchmarks, outlining the technical and music skills required at each level, for students to aim their achievable goals and measure their progress in their music development.
- Develop musician’s essential skills, including technical proficiency, musical interpretation, sight-reading, listening skills, and music theory.
- Prepare for performance as it gives a structured framework with clear learning objective for practicing, guiding, and developing their repertoires.
- Provide motivation and achievements, as graded exams guide students towards specific goals, and receive recognition for their achievements. This encourages continued practice and stay in motivated in music studies, apart from boosting students’ confidence and self-esteem.
- Graded exams, with clear criteria for evaluation and grading, provide feedback and guidance to students, such as identifying the student’s strengths and highlighting weakness where they need to work on effectively.
