If agreed upon by the tutor, student and parent, children are prepared for exams using Trinity College London, and Trinity College London Rockschool. We have had 100% success rate to date, with many students gaining merit or distinction.

For these exams, the students prepare 3 pieces generally supplied in accordance with the Trinity International Examinations Board syllabus. When composition or own arrangement is an option, the students are encouraged and given guidance as to meet the required standards of physical technique, expressive technique and rhythm skills.

Technical skills, such as scales and arpeggios are always a necessity for music. These are always taught from an early stage so that by the time the exam time arrives the child is confident and able.

Playing by ear is very much a part of enjoying music and so this is slowly developed right from an early listening stage, through the child’s learning. Many examples from various types of music are given especially as the exam draws near so that the child feels as confident as possible with the ear tests given on the day.

A range of music is used during the child’s education, so that sight reading becomes more fluent and reaches the required standard.

Some of the exams require improvisations. Because one of our main aims is expression of music, improvisation and composition form a major role in the general education. We feel our students are very equipped with these particular skills, and it is reflected in the exam marks in this particular part of the exam.

Actually doing an exam is, in effect, giving a performance. Performing is a skill in itself. By having the children perform twice a year, here at the Children’s Music Centre, the children have a chance to develop these skills in an informal setting. This opportunity, gives them a chance to develop the performance skills they need at an exam.

Music exams can be a big deal for children. But everything that can be done is done to try to make the day as easy as possible. The tutor will even be there on the day and ensure all is in order.

Children 8 years of age or over, and children who have attended the centre at least one year, are eligible to sit an exam.