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Graded Singing Exams (Singing Teachers)
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I went through the ABRSM system myself and I cannot recommend enough. It produces well-rounded musicians because of the demands of theory, sight-singing, a cappella work, aural tests, etc. I can definitely see the difference between myself and other singers who have fantastic voices but have no idea how to communicate with a band/musical director. Not to say that everyone should go through it, but I definitely wouldn’t be in the position I am today without it. My students get into it as well, even those that aren’t really interested in classical, which I imagine is because I’m so passionate about it!
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Yayy! I just got a job teaching at a highschool, and they’re considering bringing in the Rock School syllabus. If I hadn’t read this thread I would have been at a complete loss to talk about it. Thanks team!
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I teach Trinity’s Rock and Pop syllabus. My students really enjoy it. The song selection is good and you can pick your own piece as one of the three songs so long as it is the same level as the exam you’re taking. You have to sing either an improvisation to a chord progression or sight sing a piece of music that is played to you. My students find the improvisation easier if they aren’t used to reading music but I teach everyone both skills.
So far I have had students enter up to grade 6 and have had 100% Merit or Distinction results.
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I have a student who wants to go through grade 6 ABRSM, which is not a problem…but I’m a little unsure of how to go about teaching the extra parts of the exam. The songs themselves are fine (and I did grade 8 myself, so I know how it goes – but I did my grade 5 theory and then went straight to grade 8 practical, so I’m not all that familiar with the system in general) but has anyone got any advice about teaching the extra tests (sight-singing and aural).
Thanks:)
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Hi,
I have used ABRSM for three years for my students taking singing, music theory and cello exams. It was the exam board I was examined in growing up. ABRSM are pretty organised as an exam board and their syllabus’ are easy to use for teaching and system is easy to submit students for exams.
I have also used for two terms-LCM for Pop Vocals and Musical Theatre grades. I really like both syllabuses and it has opened up a lot more repertoire for students that really prefer to ‘perform on stage’ and who really want to do musical theatre songs and pop.
I have only had one negative experience with LCM, and this was with the first student taking the exams. Since all students have thoroughly enjoyed them. On reflection I believe they did not work hard enough. Their systems are not so slick as ABRSM but still okay. The chief examiner always responds promptly to any questions I have.
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