Exams
Once the student wakes up for the joy of performance and pride of accomplishment, it is the perfect time to get them started on a music exam system to set a steady path with a trajectory.
Currently over 90% of the students at our studio are preparing for RCM or ABRSM exams. (I plan to start offering CM - Certificate of Merit exam in 2027)
ABRSM (Performance Grade)
This is probably the most accessible international piano exam. The exam is through a video. You send the recording of your pieces, and they will grade your performance. Over 600,000 candidates take this exam each year in 93 countries. This exam could be a good way to test and see how it is like to prepare for and take piano performance exam. You can take this exam any time through out the year. There are 8 grades. In order to take Grade 6 or higher, you must take Grade 5 Theory exam and pass it first.
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RCM (Royal Conservatory of Music) (Practical Exam)
RCM exams is also international, but their exams are much more involved and preparing for their exams would take more comprehensive music study. The exam can be take taken in-person (please check and verify) or online. The exams are more expensive than ABRSM as well. Therefore, less numbers of candidates take this exam. However, if you feel that piano would be an important part of your identity, getting on RCM exam path would help you set your foot on a steady and reliable path for a good piano study. There are 3 testing periods in each year, around June, August, and December. There are 10 levels. Starting Level 5, in order to receive comprehensive certificate, you must also pass the theory exam of the same level.
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CM (Certificate of Merit)
(Not available at the studio until 2027)
CM is a regional exam system in California. CM is also very comprehensive like RCM and I believe the test can also be taken in-person or online. (please check to verify). In California, this exam is probably the most standard piano performance exam which is run by MTAC (Music Teacher's Association of California). Once I graduate with Master of Music degree from SFSU, I will have an access to send my students to this exam starting their exam in February/March of 2027 (registration in September 2026). The exam is held only once a year. MTAC also organize various music festivals and competitions. In the near future, I look forward to participating in those events with my aspiring students!
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