This can provide a useful focus for work and personal development, but is by no means compulsory. Not all students want/need to take examinations, but for those who do the following options are possible:
Associated Board Of The Royal
Schools Of Music (ABRSM) Grade Examinations
Singing
Grades 1-8 This is a traditional syllabus involving preparation of a balanced programme of classical repertoire, including folk song and selected musical theatre pieces. The examination is music based and there are aural tests and sight singing exercises to prepare. Anne will help with programme selection. The examinations are fully accredited and the upper grades have UCAS point allocations. An examiner visits Anne's studio once a year, usually in the winter. This means that candidates will be singing in a familiar environment. Prior to the exam day there is a rehearsal with a professional accompanist (usually Tanya Hilton) . Candidates pay an accompanist's fee. Entries may also be made at the local centre at other times of year subject to availability of the accompanist.
Music Theory
Grades 1-5 Anne prepares students for these grades as a support to singing. The examinations may be taken at any of the three annual sessions at the local centre.
London College Of Music (LCM) Music Theatre Grade Examinations
Grade 1-8 The singing and drama elements of this examination are both important. Songs may be selected from all areas of the music theatre repertoire including operetta, light opera, music hall, cabaret, film , classic book musicals, musical comedy and contemporary shows. Anne will help with the selection of a balanced programme. There is the opportunity to try new vocal styles and to do detailed work on character. The exam comprises a performance of two to four songs, depending on grade, with characterisation and simple props/cosume elements. Dancers may use their skills! There is a discussion (with the examiner) following the performance. Depending on grade, candidates are expected to show knowledge of their chosen repertoire/genre, vocal skills, movement skills, and characterisation. At upper grades they must evaluate their own performance. The exams are fully accredited and upper grades have UCAS point allocations. An examiner visits Anne's studio once a year, usually in summer. This means that candidates are able to perform in a familiar environment. Prior to the exam day there is a rehearsal with a professional accompanist (usually Tanya Hilton). Candidates pay an accompanist's fee.
Diplomas
ABRSM diploma work in Classical Singing for suitably experienced post grade 8 students. Diplomas are usually examined at large ABRSM centres e.g. London or Birmigham.
LCM diploma work in Music Theatre or Classical Singing for suitably experienced post grade 8 students. DipLCM may be taken at Anne's (VocALintuition) Studio, but higher diplomas are examined at larger centres.
Accompanied lessons will be arranged as part of diploma preparation and if possible candidates will be given performing opportunities.
Other diplomas may be explored as appropriate to the student. The student must meet all accompanist's fees and travel costs (if relevant).