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In Person Exams
In Person Exams (sometimes called 'Practical' or 'Face to Face' Exams) are a traditional way of taking graded exams. They offer formal qualifications which are gained by playing/singing for an examiner and demonstrating musical knowledge.
What are In Person Exams?
In Person Exams (sometimes called 'Practical Exams' or 'Face to Face Exams') are a traditional way of taking graded exams.
Exams take place at local centres where pupils sing/play to an examiner and demonstrate their musical knowledge.
Pupils wishing to take grade 6 upwards with the ABRSM exam board must have passed a separate ABRSM Grade 5 Theory Exam.
Exam Structure
Your teacher will make sure you know exactly what you need to do for your exam.
All exams will involve playing pre-prepared pieces. Depending on the exam board, they may also have some of the following:
- Sight reading/Quick study - playing/singing a piece of music you have never seen before
- Playing/singing scales or exercises from memory
- Aural test - listening to the examiner play something and anwering questions or doing a little bit of singing
- Technical work, including improvisation or session skills
- A discussion about your performance
Accompaniment
Musical accompaniment is needed when pupils perform some of their pre-prepared songs or pieces at the exam (expect for piano exams).
Your accompanist will need paying and provide you with at least one rehearsal in advance plus accompaniment at the exam.
If your teacher is unable to play the accompaniment part for you at your exam, they'll recommend a private accompanist to you.
Backing tracks (recordings) which pupils play along to are used for Rock and Pop exams.
Application Process
Your teacher will let you know when you're ready to take an exam - please speak to your teacher before making any exam entries.
Exams take place during set weeks of the year and there are deadlines for when you need to apply for the next exam session; application closing dates are well in advance of the exam date. You will then be given your own individual exam date and time.
Applications can be made online or some teachers will arrange the entry for you.
Exam fees start at around £50+ for grade 1 (2024, excluding accompanist and certificate printing fees) and go up incrementally with each grade.
Exam Boards
Whether you’re after contemporary, classical or jazz grades, all these boards offer something a little different. Some lean towards more traditional academic rigour, some focus on performance and style, whereas others give you the option to tailor technical exercises, embrace composition and test your strengths.
