Music exams
A goal to work towards - if, and only if, it suits you.
Many students choose to work towards music exams. They do so for different reasons - having a goal to work towards, gaining a formal qualification, or just because they enjoy the journey.
Exams are certainly not a requirement of learning an instrument, but I offer a range of them to suit a variety of tastes:
ABRSM / Trinity - traditional music exams including classical pieces, which may also include scales, sight reading and listening tests.
Jazz (ABRSM) - the chance to learn jazz standards, with some emphasis on improvisation.
Trinity Rock & Pop - playing the actual instrumental lines from well-known tunes, along with a backing track.
Music Teacher's Board - all online, with huge flexibility about which pieces you can play.
These days the published exam books are full of inspiring choices that appeal to many different interests, and they can be used as a basis for lessons with or without ever sitting an exam.
I let students know when I think they'd be ready to prepare for an exam, and I actively encourage those who want to. I equally support students who'd prefer to learn without them - and you can always jump in at a higher grade later if you choose not to take an exam right now.
