RCM Examination Information
At Accent Music Studios our instructors are prepared to teach the RCM syllabus and prepare students for both practical and theory examinations.

What do practical exams entail?

Students generally prepare repertoire (solo accompanied pieces), several etudes (short unaccompanied pieces), scales and arpeggios which must be memorized, plus ear training and sight reading. Orchestral excerpts are required for higher grade levels (7 upwards), except for piano and voice. The pieces are chosen from a syllabus which is published by the RCM and available in music stores as well as online. Click Here for all downloadable syllabi. Students perform all of the above in front of an RCM examiner. Once the exam is complete, results are generally posted online in a few weeks.

How many levels are there, and which should I choose?

RCM levels are from Preparatory (beginner) to Level 10 and A.R.C.T. (advanced). Your teacher can determine which level would be appropriate.

What are the benefits?

School Credits

For students who achieve levels 6 – 10, school credits are awarded. It is important to note that Universities and Colleges are recognizing and acknowledging these exams. School councillors will be able to offer more advice on their relevance.

RCM Information - This table shows which provinces accept RCM levels for high school credits.

Ministry of Education - This shows a table of the number of credits each RCM level is worth.

Setting and Achieving Goals

Preparing for any musical performance and/or exam requires a great deal of self- discipline. Exam material must be extremely well prepared and performed with absolute accuracy. This forces students to closely examine dynamics and expression more carefully, play with rhythmic accuracy as well as focusing on producing an even and beautiful tone.

Passing an exam and being awarded a certificate provides a sense of achievement and increases confidence. It is also an excellent way to gauge ability when speaking to and performing with other musicians, conductors and musical directors.

Working towards an exam promotes well rounded musical training. In addition to learning repertoire, candidates will also be examined on technical exercises (scales/arpeggios), sight reading and ear training.

Are there any downsides?

An exam generally takes up to 6 months to prepare for, if not longer (Grades 1 – 5). From Grade 6 upwards it can take a full academic year depending on the student’s level of commitment. Some students become frustrated playing the same pieces for that amount of time. If this occurs, your teacher will be able to introduce some duets or light-hearted music for a few weeks to provide a break from the exam repertoire.

For band and orchestral instruments: Wind players (particularly saxophone) must realize that the music is primarily classical in nature. There are occasional jazz tunes and studies to choose from, but they are rare.

Generally, if a student is serious about their instrument and keen to explore music beyond band repertoire, the pros outweigh the cons.

When and where do the exams take place?

The Royal Conservatory of Music exams take place 3 times per year (4 for piano). The practical exams are generally held in January, June and August at various centres around the lower mainland. The centre is generally chosen based on your residential location. If you live on the north shore you will apply to be examined there. Sometimes, if not enough students register at one location, students will be asked to travel to another centre within the lower mainland. This is a rare occurrence.

How much will it cost?

Exam fees increase as the grades become more involved. Preparatory costs $59.00 and Grade 10 costs $425.00. Click Here for more information.

With the exception piano candidates, an accompanist is required to play at the exam and for rehearsals. Always engage the services of an experienced, and preferably professional, accompanist to play for exams. Your teacher can make recommendations. Accompanists generally charge between $50 - $70 per hour.

Music must be purchased, and this can involve buying 3 or more books. The examiner always requires a copy of the music. As a result, two copies of each book may have to be purchased unless your teacher, or someone else, can provide copies for you.

For more information please visit the RCM Website www.rcmexaminations.org

Our private music instructors can prepare RCM exams in piano, voice, plate, clarinet, oboe, bassoon, saxophone, trumpet, french horn, trombone, tuba, violin, viola, cello, double bass and guitar.