Rockschool

Learn the Alto Saxophone

Grab your sax and take us on an emotive journey with Rockschool Alto Saxophone.

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Celebrating horn sections

With 6 pieces per Saxophone grade – at least three pieces being shared repertoire across all Horn Section syllabuses – Rockschool Alto Sax will support your journey of instrument mastery and ensemble performance.

Learning Platform Grade Books

Complete publications

The Rockschool Alto Sax publications provide you with everything you need to take a graded exam: a diverse range of repertoire (including professionally arranged and recorded backing tacks), a truly innovative range of technical exercises and supporting tests.

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Iconic music

Throughout the grades, we’ve hand-picked tunes from some of the world’s biggest artists across a diverse range of genres. This expansive choice of songs can be used in your graded music exam, as material for auditions and performances as a section, or for your own enjoyment.

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Groundbreaking technology

These digital releases, powered by MatchMySound, come complete with an interactive score player allowing you to slow down and loop specific sections of pieces. Gamify your learning experience by receiving automated feedback on your practise sessions!

Learning Platform Teacher Access

Recognised around the world

All our qualifications have been designed with industry relevance, student engagement, and academic rigour in mind. Upon completion of an RSL graded music exam, you will have earned a globally recognised qualification, designed to support progression routes towards higher education and the creative industries.

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Benchmarked progression

RSL Awards’ graded music exams motivate and encourage musicians of all ages and abilities through a system of progressive mastery. From our introductory grades all the way through to Grade 8, these graded qualifications enable candidates to develop and enhance their musical skills, knowledge and understanding in an exciting, engaging and consistent manner.

Learn the Alto Saxophone with Rockschool

Ready to discover the world of Rockschool Horn Section? Check out the video below to find out how this syllabus has come to life and what makes Rockschool the best option for you.

How it works

Whether you’re learning the alto saxophone independently or with a music teacher, it’s easy to get started learning with Rockschool.

01

Download the syllabus and buy your grade book

Our publications provide you with everything you need: professionally arranged and produced repertoire alongside innovative technical exercises and supporting tests.

02

Start practicing with our innovative resources

From our interactive e-books to Learning Platform app, our teaching and learning resources are here to support you become a better musician.

03

Sit the exam and reap your rewards

If you’re ready and want to take a Graded Music Exam, achieve your very own Rockschool qualification after putting in the hours of dedication towards mastering your instrument.

Alto Saxophone
Grade 1

The Grade 1 Alto Sax exam is for candidates who have been typically learning for six months to one year. They have mastered the key basic debut level skills and have since acquired greater use of technique, rhythms, co-ordination and musical understanding. There is also an opportunity to build on basic improvisation.

There are three types of exams available: Grade Exam, Graded Certificate or Performance Certificate.

Estimated Examination Time:

  • Grade Exam: 20 minutes (approx.)
  • Performance Certificate: 20 minutes (approx.)
RS-Instruments-Saxophone

Purchase Your Book & Exam Entry

The Alto Sax Grade 1 book contains everything you need to sit your Grade 1 exam – in one essential book. It’s packed with essential techniques and theory for beginners picking up the fundamentals of alto saxophone.

Alto Sax Grade 1

The essential syllabus for the aspiring, contemporary Saxophonist. Rockschool Alto Saxophone Grad...
Graded Music Exam Grade 1

Graded Music Exam: Grade 1

All Instruments - General guidance: Graded Music Exams Overview - How to book an exam UK / Republ...

Performance Pieces

The pieces in the grade book can be used for both the Grade Exam and Performance Certificate. The expectation and length of pieces are designed so candidates can acquire a solid understanding and execution of notation accuracy, values, evenness of sound, tone quality/consistency, technical control, articulation, expression, style awareness and sync at an early intermediate level.

Featured Repertoire:

  • The Champs – Tequila
  • Bobby Hebb – Sunny
  • Madness – One Step Beyond
  • Rihanna ft. Calvin Harris – We Found Love
  • Pharrell Williams – Happy
  • Sam Smith – I’m Not the Only One

Technical Exercises

At Grade 1 there are three groups of technical work: scales, arpeggios and a technical study.

The examiner will ask for a selection of scales (Group A) and arpeggios (Group B). All scales and arpeggios should be prepared with tongued and slurred articulation. The examiner will announce the key, scale or arpeggio type and articulation for each example.

 

GROUP A – Scales

Tempo: Crotchet=50 bpm

  • G major scale, 1 octave
  • G dorian mode, 1 octave
  • G minor pentatonic scale, 1 octave

 

GROUP B – Arpeggios

Tempo: Crotchet=50 bpm

  • G major arpeggio, 1 octave
  • G minor arpeggio, 1 octave

 

GROUP C – Technical Study

Candidates are to perform their choice of one of the three technical studies given in the grade book. The examiner will ask which study the candidate has prepared.

Supporting Tests

Sight Reading or Improvisation & Interpretation

At Grade 1, candidates will be offered the choice between Sight Reading or Improvisation & Interpretation. Before seeing the test, the examiner will ask the candidate which they would like to perform. Before seeing the test, the examiner will ask you which you would like to perform. Once you have decided you cannot change your mind. An example is shown in the Grade 1 book.

Sight Reading

In the Sight Reading test, the examiner will give you a melody to be played to a metronome click.

The test will be:

  • 4 bars duration
  • In the key of G major
  • At a tempo of crotchet=100
  • In 4/4 time
  • Based on half notes (minims), quarter notes (crotchets) and associated rests.

The examiner will show you the notation, and you will have 90 seconds to prepare. You may ask for a metronome click at the start of, or throughout your practise time. After the 90 seconds practise time, the examiner will play you the click track again, and you will be required to perform the test.

Improvisation & Interpretation

Key: G major or G minor

Tempo: Crotchet=95 bpm

At Grade 1, the examiner will give the candidate a 5-bar chord progression in the key of G major or G minor. The candidate will have 90 seconds preparation time, after which the examiner will play the backing track twice. The examiner will offer the metronome as a guide throughout this time. Candidates will then have a complete practice run through with the backing track, and then on the repeat the test will be examined.

Ear Tests

There are two tests: Melodic Recall and Rhythmic Recall.

Melodic Recall

Tempo: Crotchet=95 bpm

The examiner will play you two consecutive notes. You will need to identify whether the last note is higher or lower than the first. You will hear the test twice, each time with a one bar count-in.

Rhythmic Recall

Tempo: Crotchet=95 bpm

The examiner will play you a two-bar rhythm on the note ‘G’. You will hear the test twice. You will then hear a one bar count-in, after which you will be required to play back the rhythm on your instrument on the same note, to a drum backing.

General Musicianship Questions

In this part of the exam candidates will be asked five questions drawn from the topics listed below. For the notation section, the examiner will ask you to choose a piece you’ve played in the exam.

Music Knowledge

In Grade 1, candidates will be asked to identify:

  • The treble clef or time signature
  • Note pitch names
  • Half note (minim), quarter note (crotchet) or eighth note (quaver) values
  • The tempo marking

Instrument Knowledge

In Grade 1, candidates will be asked to identify:

  • One of the following parts of their instrument: bell, mouth piece or keys

Music Theory

In Grade 1, candidates will be asked to describe:

  • The construction of a major or minor triad.

Exam Structure

There are three types of exam available, a Grade Exam, Graded Certificate, or Performance Certificate.

Grade Exam

3 Performance Pieces (two of which may be Free Choice Pieces) Candidates choose to play either Performance Pieces or Technical Exercises first These account for 60% of the exam mark
Technical Exercises (Section A, B, C and D for Level 3 qualifications) Candidates choose to play either Performance Pieces or Technical Exercises first These account for 15% of the exam mark
Sight Reading or Improvisation & Interpretation (Debut to Grade 5); Quick Study Pieces (Grade 6 to Grade 8) Candidates are given an unseen test to prepare and perform This accounts for 10% of the exam marks
2 Ear Tests Candidates respond to 2 aural tests. These account for 10% of the exam marks
5 General Musicianship Questions Candidates answer 5 questions based on one of the pieces performed These account for 5% of the exam marks

Graded Certificate

3 Performance Pieces (two of which may be Free Choice Pieces) Candidates choose to play either Performance Pieces or Technical Exercises first These account for 75% of the exam mark
Technical Exercises Candidates choose to play either Performance Pieces or Technical Exercises first These account for 25% of the exam mark

Performance Certificate

5 Performance Pieces only (three of these can be Free Choice Pieces) These account for 20% of the exam mark each.

Assessment Criteria

(Please note: Graded Certificates consist of just Performance Pieces and Technical Exercises. Please see the exam structure tab for more info)

Performance Pieces

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 18-20 15-17 12-14 6-11 0-5
Command of Instrument Consistently clear production of sound and even tone quality throughout Mostly clear production of sound and even tone quality overall Some clear production of sound and generally even tone quality Sound produced is unclear with uneven quality of tone produced No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Sync or Pulse Performance consistently synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance mostly synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance sometimes synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance not synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse not maintained No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Accuracy & Understanding all of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout. Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time. Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall. Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time. Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time. Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure not evidenced. No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Style & Expression Consistently convincing projection of the music. Mostly convincing projection of the music. Some convincing projection of the music. Music not convincingly projected. No attempt and/or incomplete performance

Technical Exercises

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 13–15 11–12 9–10 4–8 0–3
Command of Instrument Consistently clear production of sound and even tone quality throughout Mostly clear production of sound and even tone quality overall Some clear production of sound and generally even tone quality Sound produced is unclear with uneven quality of tone produced No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Sync or Pulse Performance consistently synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance mostly synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance sometimes synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance not synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse not maintained No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Accuracy & Understanding all of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout. Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time. Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall. Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time. Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time. Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure not evidenced. No attempt and/or incomplete performance

Ear Tests

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 9-10 7-8 6 3-5 0-2
Accuracy & Understanding All of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout. Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time. Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall. Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time. Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time. Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure not evidenced. No attempt and/or incomplete performance

Supporting Tests

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 9-10 7-8 6 3-5 0-2
Command of Instrument Consistently clear production of sound and even tone quality throughout Mostly clear production of sound and even tone quality overall Some clear production of sound and generally even tone quality Sound produced is unclear with uneven quality of tone produced No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Sync or Pulse Performance consistently synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance mostly synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance sometimes synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance not synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse not maintained No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Accuracy & Understanding All of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout. Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time. Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall. Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time. Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time. Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure not evidenced. No attempt and/or incomplete performance

General Musicianship Questions

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 5 correct responses 4 correct responses 3 correct responses 2 correct responses 0-1 correct responses

Performance Certificate

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 18-20 15-17 12-14 6-11 0-5
Command of Instrument Consistently clear production of sound and even tone quality throughout Mostly clear production of sound and even tone quality overall Some clear production of sound and generally even tone quality Sound produced is unclear with uneven quality of tone produced No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Sync or Pulse Performance consistently synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance mostly synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance sometimes synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance not synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse not maintained No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Accuracy & Understanding All of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout. Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time. Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall. Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time. Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time. Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure not evidenced. No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Style & Expression Consistently convincing projection of the music. Mostly convincing projection of the music. Some convincing projection of the music. Music not convincingly projected. No attempt and/or incomplete performance

Alto Saxophone
Grade 2

The Grade 2 Alto Sax exam is for candidates who have been typically learning for one year to eighteen months. They have mastered the key basic skills up to Grade 1 and since acquired greater use of technique, rhythms, co-ordination and musical understanding. There is also the continuing opportunity to develop improvisation skills.

There are three types of exams available: Grade Exam, Graded Certificate or Performance Certificate.

Estimated Examination Time:

  • Grade Exam: 20 minutes (approx.)
  • Performance Certificate: 20 minutes (approx.)
RS-Instruments-Saxophone

Purchase Your Book & Exam Entry

The Alto Sax Grade 2 book contains everything you need to sit your Grade 2 exam – in one essential book.

Alto Sax Grade 2

The essential syllabus for the aspiring, contemporary Saxophonist. Rockschool Alto Saxophone Grad...
Graded Music Exam Grade 2

Graded Music Exam: Grade 2

All Instruments - General guidance: Graded Music Exams Overview - How to book an exam UK / Repub...

Performance Pieces

The pieces in the grade book can be used for both the Grade Exam and Performance Certificate. The expectation and length of pieces are designed so candidates can acquire a solid understanding and execution of notation accuracy, values, evenness of sound, tone quality/consistency, technical control, articulation, expression, style awareness and sync at an early intermediate level.

Featured Repertoire:

  • Taylor Swift – Shake It Off
  • The Tokens – The Lion Sleeps Tonight
  • Wilson Pickett – In the Midnight Hour
  • Ramin Djawadi – Game of Thrones
  • The Specials – A Message to You Rudy
  • Tito Puente – Oye Como Va

Technical Exercises

At Grade 2 there are three groups of technical work: scales, arpeggios and a technical study.

The examiner will ask for a selection of scales (Group A) and arpeggios (Group B). All scales and arpeggios should be prepared with tongued and slurred articulation. The examiner will announce the key, scale or arpeggio type and articulation for each example.

 

GROUP A – Scales

Tempo: Crotchet=55 bpm

  • D major scale, 2 octaves
  • D dorian mode, 2 octaves
  • D minor pentatonic scale, 2 octaves

 

GROUP B – Arpeggios

Tempo: Crotchet=55 bpm

  • D major arpeggio, 2 octaves
  • D minor arpeggio, 2 octaves

 

GROUP C – Technical Study

Candidates are to perform their choice of one of the three technical studies given in the grade book. The examiner will ask which study the candidate has prepared.

Supporting Tests

Sight Reading or Improvisation & Interpretation

At Grade 2, candidates will be offered the choice between Sight Reading or Improvisation & Interpretation. Before seeing the test, the examiner will ask the candidate which they would like to perform. Before seeing the test, the examiner will ask you which you would like to perform. Once you have decided you cannot change your mind. An example is shown in the Grade 2 book.

Sight Reading

In the Sight Reading test, the examiner will give you a melody to be played to a metronome click.

The test will be:

  • 6 bars duration
  • In the key of D major or B minor
  • At a tempo of crotchet=100
  • In 4/4 time
  • Based on half notes (minims), quarter notes (crotchets) and associated rests.

The examiner will show you the notation, and you will have 90 seconds to prepare. You may ask for a metronome click at the start of, or throughout your practise time. After the 90 seconds practise time, the examiner will play you the click track again, and you will be required to perform the test.

Improvisation & Interpretation

Key: D major or D minor

Tempo: Crotchet=95 bpm

At Grade 2, the examiner will give the candidate a 5-bar chord progression in the key of D major or D minor. The candidate will have 90 seconds preparation time, after which the examiner will play the backing track twice. The examiner will offer the metronome as a guide throughout this time. Candidates will then have a complete practice run through with the backing track, and then on the repeat the test will be examined.

Ear Tests

There are two tests: Melodic Recall and Rhythmic Recall.

Melodic Recall

Tempo: Crotchet=95 bpm

The examiner will play you two consecutive notes. You will need to identify whether the last note is higher or lower than the first. You will hear the test twice, each time with a one bar count-in.

Rhythmic Recall

Tempo: Crotchet=95 bpm

The examiner will play you a two-bar rhythm on the note ‘D’. You will hear the test twice. You will then hear a one bar count-in, after which you will be required to play back the rhythm on your instrument on the same note, to a drum backing.

General Musicianship Questions

In this part of the exam candidates will be asked five questions drawn from the topics listed below. For the notation section, the examiner will ask you to choose a piece you’ve played in the exam.

Music Knowledge

In Grade 2, candidates will be asked to:

  • Explain the meaning of the time signature
  • Identify note pitch names including accidentals, or identify the key signature
  • Identify rhythm values found in the piece drawn from the following: half note (minim), dotted half-note (dotted minim), quarter note (crotchet) or eighth note (quaver) and associated rests
  • Identify the tempo marking or genre of the piece

Instrument Knowledge

In Grade 2, candidates will be asked to identify:

  • One of the following parts of their instrument: keys, ligature, reed

Music Theory

In Grade 2, candidates will be asked to describe:

  • You may be asked to describe the construction of a dominant seventh chord.

Exam Structure

There are three types of exam available, a Grade Exam, Graded Certificate, or Performance Certificate.

Grade Exam

3 Performance Pieces (two of which may be Free Choice Pieces) Candidates choose to play either Performance Pieces or Technical Exercises first These account for 60% of the exam mark
Technical Exercises (Section A, B, C and D for Level 3 qualifications) Candidates choose to play either Performance Pieces or Technical Exercises first These account for 15% of the exam mark
Sight Reading or Improvisation & Interpretation (Debut to Grade 5); Quick Study Pieces (Grade 6 to Grade 8) Candidates are given an unseen test to prepare and perform This accounts for 10% of the exam marks
2 Ear Tests Candidates respond to 2 aural tests. These account for 10% of the exam marks
5 General Musicianship Questions Candidates answer 5 questions based on one of the pieces performed These account for 5% of the exam marks

Graded Certificate

3 Performance Pieces (two of which may be Free Choice Pieces) Candidates choose to play either Performance Pieces or Technical Exercises first These account for 75% of the exam mark
Technical Exercises Candidates choose to play either Performance Pieces or Technical Exercises first These account for 25% of the exam mark

Performance Certificate

5 Performance Pieces only (three of these can be Free Choice Pieces) These account for 20% of the exam mark each.

Assessment Criteria

(Please note: Graded Certificates consist of just Performance Pieces and Technical Exercises. Please see the exam structure tab for more info)

Performance Pieces

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 18-20 15-17 12-14 6-11 0-5
Command of Instrument Consistently clear production of sound and even tone quality throughout Mostly clear production of sound and even tone quality overall Some clear production of sound and generally even tone quality Sound produced is unclear with uneven quality of tone produced No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Sync or Pulse Performance consistently synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance mostly synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance sometimes synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance not synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse not maintained No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Accuracy & Understanding all of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout. Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time. Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall. Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time. Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time. Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure not evidenced. No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Style & Expression Consistently convincing projection of the music. Mostly convincing projection of the music. Some convincing projection of the music. Music not convincingly projected. No attempt and/or incomplete performance

Technical Exercises

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 13–15 11–12 9–10 4–8 0–3
Command of Instrument Consistently clear production of sound and even tone quality throughout Mostly clear production of sound and even tone quality overall Some clear production of sound and generally even tone quality Sound produced is unclear with uneven quality of tone produced No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Sync or Pulse Performance consistently synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance mostly synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance sometimes synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance not synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse not maintained No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Accuracy & Understanding all of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout. Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time. Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall. Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time. Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time. Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure not evidenced. No attempt and/or incomplete performance

Ear Tests

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 9-10 7-8 6 3-5 0-2
Accuracy & Understanding All of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout. Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time. Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall. Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time. Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time. Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure not evidenced. No attempt and/or incomplete performance

Supporting Tests

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 9-10 7-8 6 3-5 0-2
Command of Instrument Consistently clear production of sound and even tone quality throughout Mostly clear production of sound and even tone quality overall Some clear production of sound and generally even tone quality Sound produced is unclear with uneven quality of tone produced No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Sync or Pulse Performance consistently synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance mostly synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance sometimes synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance not synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse not maintained No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Accuracy & Understanding All of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout. Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time. Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall. Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time. Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time. Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure not evidenced. No attempt and/or incomplete performance

General Musicianship Questions

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 5 correct responses 4 correct responses 3 correct responses 2 correct responses 0-1 correct responses

Performance Certificate

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 18-20 15-17 12-14 6-11 0-5
Command of Instrument Consistently clear production of sound and even tone quality throughout Mostly clear production of sound and even tone quality overall Some clear production of sound and generally even tone quality Sound produced is unclear with uneven quality of tone produced No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Sync or Pulse Performance consistently synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance mostly synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance sometimes synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance not synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse not maintained No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Accuracy & Understanding All of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout. Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time. Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall. Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time. Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time. Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure not evidenced. No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Style & Expression Consistently convincing projection of the music. Mostly convincing projection of the music. Some convincing projection of the music. Music not convincingly projected. No attempt and/or incomplete performance

Alto Saxophone
Grade 3

The Grade 3 Alto Sax exam is for candidates who have been typically learning for eighteen months to two years and who are ready to consolidate their final stage as a beginner player. They have mastered the key skills up to Grade 2 and since acquired greater use of technique, rhythms, co-ordination and musical understanding. Improvisation phrasing is now confident and articulate and candidates have started to develop the beginnings of stylistic awareness.

There are three types of exams available: Grade Exam, Graded Certificate or Performance Certificate.

Estimated Examination Time:

  • Grade Exam: 25 minutes (approx.)
  • Performance Certificate: 25 minutes (approx.)
RS-Instruments-Saxophone

Purchase Your Book & Exam Entry

The Alto Sax Grade 3 book contains everything you need to sit your Grade 3 exam – in one essential book.

Alto Sax Grade 3

The essential syllabus for the aspiring, contemporary Saxophonist. Rockschool Alto Saxophone Grad...
Graded Music Exam Grade 3

Graded Music Exam: Grade 3

All Instruments - General guidance: Graded Music Exams Overview - How to book an exam UK / Republ...

Performance Pieces

The pieces in the grade book can be used for both the Grade Exam and Performance Certificate. The expectation and length of pieces are designed so candidates can acquire a solid understanding and execution of notation accuracy, values, evenness of sound, tone quality/consistency, technical control, articulation, expression, style awareness and sync at an early intermediate level.

Featured Repertoire:

  • From ‘Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl’ – He’s a Pirate
  • Camila Cabello – Havana
  • Henry Mancini – The Pink Panther
  • The Meters – Cissy Strut
  • The White Stripes – Seven Nation Army
  • Sérgio Mendes – Mas Que Nada

Technical Exercises

At Grade 3 there are three groups of technical work: scales, arpeggios and a technical study.

The examiner will ask for a selection of scales (Group A) and arpeggios (Group B). All scales and arpeggios should be prepared with tongued and slurred articulation. The examiner will announce the key, scale or arpeggio type and articulation for each example.

 

GROUP A – Scales

Tempo: Crotchet=60 bpm

  • Bb major scale, 1 octave
  • A major scale, to the 12th
  • A dorian mode, to the 12th
  • A minor pentatonic scale, to the 12th
  • A blues scale, to the 12th
  • G chromatic scale, 1 octave

 

GROUP B – Arpeggios

Tempo: Crotchet=60 bpm

  • Bb major arpeggio, 1 octave
  • A major arpeggio, 1 octave
  • Bb minor arpeggio, 1 octave
  • A minor arpeggio, 1 octave

 

GROUP C – Technical Study

Candidates are to perform their choice of one of the three technical studies given in the grade book. The examiner will ask which study the candidate has prepared.

Supporting Tests

Sight Reading or Improvisation & Interpretation

At Grade 3, candidates will be offered the choice between Sight Reading or Improvisation & Interpretation. Before seeing the test, the examiner will ask the candidate which they would like to perform. Before seeing the test, the examiner will ask you which you would like to perform. Once you have decided you cannot change your mind. An example is shown in the Grade 3 book.

Sight Reading

In the Sight Reading test, the examiner will give you a melody to be played to a metronome click.

The test will be:

  • 8 bars duration
  • In the key of A major or A minor
  • At a tempo of crotchet=100
  • In 4/4 or 6/8 time
  • Based on half notes (minims), dotted half-notes (dotted minims), quarter notes (crotchets), dotted quarter-notes (dotted crotchets), eighth notes and associated rests.

The examiner will show you the notation, and you will have 90 seconds to prepare. You may ask for a metronome click at the start of, or throughout your practise time. After the 90 seconds practise time, the examiner will play you the click track again, and you will be required to perform the test.

Improvisation & Interpretation

Key: A major or A minor

Tempo: Crotchet=95 bpm

At Grade 3, the examiner will give the candidate a 5-bar chord progression in the key of D major or D minor. The candidate will have 90 seconds preparation time, after which the examiner will play the backing track twice. The examiner will offer the metronome as a guide throughout this time. Candidates will then have a complete practice run through with the backing track, and then on the repeat the test will be examined.

Ear Tests

There are two tests: Melodic Recall and Rhythmic Recall.

Melodic Recall

Tempo: Crotchet=95 bpm

The examiner will play you two consecutive notes. You will need to identify whether the last note is higher or lower than the first. You will hear the test twice, each time with a one bar count-in.

Rhythmic Recall

Tempo: Crotchet=95 bpm

The examiner will play you a two-bar rhythm on the note ‘A’. You will hear the test twice. You will then hear a one bar count-in, after which you will be required to play back the rhythm on your instrument on the same note, to a drum backing.

General Musicianship Questions

In this part of the exam candidates will be asked five questions drawn from the topics listed below. For the notation section, the examiner will ask you to choose a piece you’ve played in the exam.

Music Knowledge

In Grade 3, candidates will be asked to:

  • Explain the meaning of the key signature
  • Explain the meaning of the tempo marking
  • Identify note pitch names including accidentals, or identify rhythm values found in the piece drawn from the following: half note (minim), dotted half-note (dotted minim), quarter note (crotchet), dotted quarter-note (dotted crotchet), eighth note (quaver), sixteenth note (semiquaver) and associated rests
  • Identify the tempo marking or genre of the piece

Instrument Knowledge

In Grade 3, candidates will be asked to explain how manipulation of the mouthpiece affects the overall tuning of the alto saxophone.

Music Theory

In Grade 3, candidates will be asked to describe the construction of a minor seventh chord or a major seventh chord.

Exam Structure

There are three types of exam available, a Grade Exam, Graded Certificate, or Performance Certificate.

Grade Exam

3 Performance Pieces (two of which may be Free Choice Pieces) Candidates choose to play either Performance Pieces or Technical Exercises first These account for 60% of the exam mark
Technical Exercises (Section A, B, C and D for Level 3 qualifications) Candidates choose to play either Performance Pieces or Technical Exercises first These account for 15% of the exam mark
Sight Reading or Improvisation & Interpretation (Debut to Grade 5); Quick Study Pieces (Grade 6 to Grade 8) Candidates are given an unseen test to prepare and perform This accounts for 10% of the exam marks
2 Ear Tests Candidates respond to 2 aural tests. These account for 10% of the exam marks
5 General Musicianship Questions Candidates answer 5 questions based on one of the pieces performed These account for 5% of the exam marks

Graded Certificate

3 Performance Pieces (two of which may be Free Choice Pieces) Candidates choose to play either Performance Pieces or Technical Exercises first These account for 75% of the exam mark
Technical Exercises Candidates choose to play either Performance Pieces or Technical Exercises first These account for 25% of the exam mark

Performance Certificate

5 Performance Pieces only (three of these can be Free Choice Pieces) These account for 20% of the exam mark each.

Assessment Criteria

(Please note: Graded Certificates consist of just Performance Pieces and Technical Exercises. Please see the exam structure tab for more info)

Performance Pieces

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 18-20 15-17 12-14 6-11 0-5
Command of Instrument Consistently clear production of sound and even tone quality throughout Mostly clear production of sound and even tone quality overall Some clear production of sound and generally even tone quality Sound produced is unclear with uneven quality of tone produced No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Sync or Pulse Performance consistently synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance mostly synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance sometimes synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance not synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse not maintained No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Accuracy & Understanding all of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout. Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time. Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall. Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time. Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time. Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure not evidenced. No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Style & Expression Consistently convincing projection of the music. Mostly convincing projection of the music. Some convincing projection of the music. Music not convincingly projected. No attempt and/or incomplete performance

Technical Exercises

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 13–15 11–12 9–10 4–8 0–3
Command of Instrument Consistently clear production of sound and even tone quality throughout Mostly clear production of sound and even tone quality overall Some clear production of sound and generally even tone quality Sound produced is unclear with uneven quality of tone produced No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Sync or Pulse Performance consistently synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance mostly synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance sometimes synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance not synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse not maintained No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Accuracy & Understanding all of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout. Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time. Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall. Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time. Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time. Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure not evidenced. No attempt and/or incomplete performance

Ear Tests

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 9-10 7-8 6 3-5 0-2
Accuracy & Understanding All of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout. Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time. Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall. Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time. Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time. Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure not evidenced. No attempt and/or incomplete performance

Supporting Tests

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 9-10 7-8 6 3-5 0-2
Command of Instrument Consistently clear production of sound and even tone quality throughout Mostly clear production of sound and even tone quality overall Some clear production of sound and generally even tone quality Sound produced is unclear with uneven quality of tone produced No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Sync or Pulse Performance consistently synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance mostly synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance sometimes synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance not synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse not maintained No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Accuracy & Understanding All of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout. Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time. Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall. Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time. Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time. Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure not evidenced. No attempt and/or incomplete performance

General Musicianship Questions

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 5 correct responses 4 correct responses 3 correct responses 2 correct responses 0-1 correct responses

Performance Certificate

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 18-20 15-17 12-14 6-11 0-5
Command of Instrument Consistently clear production of sound and even tone quality throughout Mostly clear production of sound and even tone quality overall Some clear production of sound and generally even tone quality Sound produced is unclear with uneven quality of tone produced No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Sync or Pulse Performance consistently synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance mostly synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance sometimes synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance not synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse not maintained No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Accuracy & Understanding All of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout. Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time. Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall. Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time. Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time. Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure not evidenced. No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Style & Expression Consistently convincing projection of the music. Mostly convincing projection of the music. Some convincing projection of the music. Music not convincingly projected. No attempt and/or incomplete performance

Alto Saxophone
Grade 4

The Grade 4 Alto Sax exam is for candidates who have been typically learning for two to three years and who are ready for intermediate level playing. They have mastered the key skills up to Grade 3 and since acquired greater use of technique, more complex rhythms, co-ordination and musical understanding. Candidates will be developing a sense of expression and continuing to broaden their stylistic awareness, and there is also the opportunity to improvise which will be growing in assurance and articulation.

There are three types of exams available: Grade Exam, Graded Certificate or Performance Certificate.

Estimated Examination Time:

  • Grade Exam: 27 minutes (approx.)
  • Performance Certificate: 25 minutes (approx.)
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Graded Music Exam Grade 4

Graded Music Exam: Grade 4

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Performance Pieces

The pieces in the grade book can be used for both the Grade Exam and Performance Certificate. The expectation and length of pieces are designed so candidates can acquire a solid understanding and execution of notation accuracy, values, evenness of sound, tone quality/consistency, technical control, articulation, expression, style awareness and sync at an early intermediate level.

Featured Repertoire:

  • Aretha Franklin – (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman
  • Bon Jovi – Livin’ on a Prayer
  • George Benson – On Broadway
  • Average White Band – Put It Where You Want It
  • Amy Winehouse – Rehab
  • John Legend – All of Me

Technical Exercises

At Grade 4 there are three groups of technical work: scales, arpeggios and a technical study.

The examiner will ask for a selection of scales (Group A) and arpeggios (Group B). All scales and arpeggios should be prepared with tongued and slurred articulation. The examiner will announce the key, scale or arpeggio type and articulation for each example.

 

GROUP A – Scales

Tempo: Crotchet=70 bpm

  • C major scale, 2 octaves
  • G major scale, to the 12th
  • C dorian mode, 2 octaves
  • G dorian mode, to the 12th
  • C minor pentatonic scale, 2 octaves
  • G minor pentatonic scale, to the 12th
  • C mixolydian mode, 2 octaves
  • G mixolydian mode, to the 12th
  • C blues scale, 2 octaves
  • G blues scale, to the 12th
  • C chromatic scale, 2 octaves

 

GROUP B – Arpeggios

Tempo: Crotchet=60 bpm

  • D major 7th arpeggio, 1 octave
  • D minor 7th arpeggio, 1 octave
  • D dominant 7th arpeggio, 1 octave
  • G major 7th arpeggio, 1 octave
  • G minor 7th arpeggio, 1 octave
  • G dominant 7th arpeggio, 1 octave

 

GROUP C – Technical Study

Candidates are to perform their choice of one of the three technical studies given in the grade book. The examiner will ask which study the candidate has prepared.

Supporting Tests

Sight Reading or Improvisation & Interpretation

At Grade 4, candidates will be offered the choice between Sight Reading or Improvisation & Interpretation. Before seeing the test, the examiner will ask the candidate which they would like to perform. Before seeing the test, the examiner will ask you which you would like to perform. Once you have decided you cannot change your mind. An example is shown in the Grade 4 book.

Sight Reading

In the Sight Reading test, the examiner will give you a melody to be played to a metronome click.

The test will be:

  • 8 bars duration
  • In the key of G major or G minor
  • Melodies are predominantly diatonic with occasional accidentals
  • In 4/4 or 6/8 time

The examiner will show you the notation, and you will have 90 seconds to prepare. You may ask for a metronome click at the start of, or throughout your practise time. After the 90 seconds practise time, the examiner will play you the click track again, and you will be required to perform the test.

Improvisation & Interpretation

Key: A major or A minor

Tempo: Crotchet=95 bpm

At Grade 4, the examiner will give the candidate a 12-lead sheet, two bars within the test will contain notated melody which their must perform as
written during your performance. The candidate will have 90 seconds preparation time, after which the examiner will play the backing track twice. The examiner will offer the metronome as a guide throughout this time. Candidates will then have a complete practice run through with the backing track, and then on the repeat the test will be examined.

Ear Tests

There are two tests: Melodic Recall and Harmonic Recall.

Melodic Recall

Tempo: Crotchet=95 bpm

The examiner will play a two-bar melody with a drum backing using the G major or G minor scale. The first note of the melody will be the root note. The candidate will play the melody back on their instrument. They will hear the test twice, each time the melody is played it is preceded by a vocal count-in.

Harmonic Recall

Tempo: Crotchet=95 bpm

The examiner will play a four-bar chord sequence in the key of C major, drawn from chords I, IV and V. The test contains one chord per bar, and the first chord will be the root chord. The candidate will be asked to identify the chord sequence.

General Musicianship Questions

In this part of the exam candidates will be asked five questions drawn from the topics listed below. For the notation section, the examiner will ask you to choose a piece you’ve played in the exam.

Notation

In Grade 4, candidates will be asked to:

  • Explain the meaning of the time signature or key signature
  • Explain the meaning of the tempo marking or any dynamic marking found on the score
  • Identify note pitch names (including accidentals) or identify rhythm values found in piece – half note (minim), dotted half-note (dotted minim), quarter note (crotchet), dotted quarter-note (dotted crotchet), eighth note (quaver), sixteenth note (semiquaver), eighth-note triplets (quaver triplets), and their associated rests.
  • Explain the meaning of any articulation or expression mark found on the score

Your Chosen Piece

In Grade 4, candidates will be asked to give one example of a musical feature of the piece which is representative of the genre, e.g. rhythmic
features, harmonic features, tempo, feel etc.

Music Theory

In Grade 4, candidates will be asked to describe the construction of a diminished or augmented triad.

Exam Structure

There are three types of exam available, a Grade Exam, Graded Certificate, or Performance Certificate.

Grade Exam

3 Performance Pieces (two of which may be Free Choice Pieces) Candidates choose to play either Performance Pieces or Technical Exercises first These account for 60% of the exam mark
Technical Exercises (Section A, B, C and D for Level 3 qualifications) Candidates choose to play either Performance Pieces or Technical Exercises first These account for 15% of the exam mark
Sight Reading or Improvisation & Interpretation (Debut to Grade 5); Quick Study Pieces (Grade 6 to Grade 8) Candidates are given an unseen test to prepare and perform This accounts for 10% of the exam marks
2 Ear Tests Candidates respond to 2 aural tests. These account for 10% of the exam marks
5 General Musicianship Questions Candidates answer 5 questions based on one of the pieces performed These account for 5% of the exam marks

Graded Certificate

3 Performance Pieces (two of which may be Free Choice Pieces) Candidates choose to play either Performance Pieces or Technical Exercises first These account for 75% of the exam mark
Technical Exercises Candidates choose to play either Performance Pieces or Technical Exercises first These account for 25% of the exam mark

Performance Certificate

5 Performance Pieces only (three of these can be Free Choice Pieces) These account for 20% of the exam mark each.

Assessment Criteria

(Please note: Graded Certificates consist of just Performance Pieces and Technical Exercises. Please see the exam structure tab for more info)

Performance Pieces

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 18-20 15-17 12-14 6-11 0-5
Command of Instrument Consistently clear production of sound and even tone quality throughout Mostly clear production of sound and even tone quality overall Some clear production of sound and generally even tone quality Sound produced is unclear with uneven quality of tone produced No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Sync or Pulse Performance consistently synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance mostly synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance sometimes synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance not synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse not maintained No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Accuracy & Understanding all of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout. Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time. Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall. Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time. Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time. Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure not evidenced. No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Style & Expression Consistently convincing projection of the music. Mostly convincing projection of the music. Some convincing projection of the music. Music not convincingly projected. No attempt and/or incomplete performance

Technical Exercises

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 13–15 11–12 9–10 4–8 0–3
Command of Instrument Consistently clear production of sound and even tone quality throughout Mostly clear production of sound and even tone quality overall Some clear production of sound and generally even tone quality Sound produced is unclear with uneven quality of tone produced No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Sync or Pulse Performance consistently synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance mostly synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance sometimes synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance not synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse not maintained No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Accuracy & Understanding all of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout. Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time. Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall. Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time. Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time. Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure not evidenced. No attempt and/or incomplete performance

Ear Tests

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 9-10 7-8 6 3-5 0-2
Accuracy & Understanding All of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout. Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time. Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall. Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time. Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time. Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure not evidenced. No attempt and/or incomplete performance

Supporting Tests

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 9-10 7-8 6 3-5 0-2
Command of Instrument Consistently clear production of sound and even tone quality throughout Mostly clear production of sound and even tone quality overall Some clear production of sound and generally even tone quality Sound produced is unclear with uneven quality of tone produced No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Sync or Pulse Performance consistently synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance mostly synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance sometimes synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance not synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse not maintained No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Accuracy & Understanding All of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout. Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time. Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall. Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time. Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time. Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure not evidenced. No attempt and/or incomplete performance

General Musicianship Questions

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 5 correct responses 4 correct responses 3 correct responses 2 correct responses 0-1 correct responses

Performance Certificate

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 18-20 15-17 12-14 6-11 0-5
Command of Instrument Consistently clear production of sound and even tone quality throughout Mostly clear production of sound and even tone quality overall Some clear production of sound and generally even tone quality Sound produced is unclear with uneven quality of tone produced No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Sync or Pulse Performance consistently synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance mostly synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance sometimes synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance not synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse not maintained No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Accuracy & Understanding All of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout. Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time. Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall. Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time. Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time. Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure not evidenced. No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Style & Expression Consistently convincing projection of the music. Mostly convincing projection of the music. Some convincing projection of the music. Music not convincingly projected. No attempt and/or incomplete performance

Alto Saxophone
Grade 5

The Grade 5 Alto Sax exam is for candidates who have been typically learning for three years or more and who have fully consolidated their intermediate level playing. They have mastered the key skills up to Grade 4 and since acquired a greater use of appropriate technique, more complex rhythms, coordination and musical understanding. Candidates will have developed a good sense of expression, have a strong grasp of stylistic awareness, and there is also the opportunity to improvise which is now individual, assured, accurate and expressive.

There are three types of exams available: Grade Exam, Graded Certificate or Performance Certificate.

Estimated Examination Time:

  • Grade Exam: 27 minutes (approx.)
  • Performance Certificate: 25 minutes (approx.)
RS-Instruments-Saxophone

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The Alto Sax Grade 5 book contains everything you need to sit your Grade 5 exam – in one essential book.

Alto Sax Grade 5

The essential syllabus for the aspiring, contemporary Saxophonist. Rockschool Alto Saxophone Grad...
Graded Music Exam Grade 5

Graded Music Exam: Grade 5

All Instruments - General guidance: Graded Music Exams Overview - How to book an exam UK / Republ...

Performance Pieces

The pieces in the grade book can be used for both the Grade Exam and Performance Certificate. The expectation and length of pieces are designed so candidates can acquire a solid understanding and execution of notation accuracy, values, evenness of sound, tone quality/consistency, technical control, articulation, expression, style awareness and sync at an early intermediate level.

Featured Repertoire:

  • Marvin Gaye – Ain’t No Mountain High Enough
  • Bruno Mars – Uptown Funk
  • Alicia Keys – Fallin’
  • Dusty Springfield – Son-of-a-Preacher Man
  • The Specials – Ghost Town
  • Camila Cabello – Bam Bam

Technical Exercises

At Grade 5 there are three groups of technical work: scales, arpeggios and a technical study.

The examiner will ask for a selection of scales (Group A) and arpeggios (Group B). All scales and arpeggios should be prepared with tongued and slurred articulation. The examiner will announce the key, scale or arpeggio type and articulation for each example.

 

GROUP A – Scales

Tempo: Crotchet=80 bpm

  • E major scale, two octaves
  • F major scale, two octaves
  • E dorian mode, two octaves
  • F dorian mode, two octaves
  • E mixolydian mode, two octaves
  • F mixolydian mode, two octaves
  • E minor pentatonic scale, two octaves
  • F minor pentatonic scale, two octaves
  • E blues scale, two octaves
  • F blues scale, two octaves
  • E chromatic scale, two octaves

 

GROUP B – Arpeggios

Tempo: Crotchet=70 bpm

  • E major 7th arpeggio, one octave
  • F major 7th arpeggio, one octave
  • E minor 7th arpeggio, one octave
  • F minor 7th arpeggio, one octave
  • E dominant 7th arpeggio, one octave
  • F dominant 7th arpeggio, one octave
  • E diminished 7th arpeggio, one octave
  • F diminished 7th arpeggio, one octave

 

GROUP C – Technical Study

Candidates are to perform their choice of one of the three technical studies given in the grade book. The examiner will ask which study the candidate has prepared.

Supporting Tests

Sight Reading or Improvisation & Interpretation

At Grade 5, candidates will be offered the choice between Sight Reading or Improvisation & Interpretation. Before seeing the test, the examiner will ask the candidate which they would like to perform. Before seeing the test, the examiner will ask you which you would like to perform. Once you have decided you cannot change your mind. An example is shown in the Grade 5 book.

Sight Reading

In the Sight Reading test, the examiner will give you a short piece to be played to a metronome click. At this grade, there will be four bars where you will need to improvise melodies to complement the surrounding notated melody during your performance. Chord symbols are shown as guidance for the four bars of improvisation.

The test will be:

  • 12 bars duration
  • In the key of E major, E minor, F major or F minor
  • Melodies are predominantly diatonic – there may be occasional accidentals
  • In 4/4, 6/8 or 12/8 time

The examiner will show you the notation, and you will have 90 seconds to prepare. You may ask for a metronome click at the start of, or throughout your practise time. After the 90 seconds practise time, the examiner will play you the click track again, and you will be required to perform the test.

Improvisation & Interpretation

Key: A major or A minor

Tempo: Crotchet=95 bpm

At Grade 5, the examiner will give the candidate a 12-bar lead sheet, over which they will be required to improvise a melody on your instrument. Four bars within the test will contain notated melody which they must perform as written during your performance. The candidate will have 90 seconds preparation time, after which the examiner will play the backing track twice. The examiner will offer the metronome as a guide throughout this time. Candidates will then have a complete practice run through with the backing track, and then on the repeat the test will be examined.

Ear Tests

There are two tests: Melodic Recall and Harmonic Recall.

Melodic Recall

Tempo: Crotchet=95 bpm

The examiner will play a two-bar melody with a drum backing using the E major or E minor scale. The first note of the melody will be the root note. The candidate will play the melody back on their instrument. They will hear the test twice, each time the melody is played it is preceded by a vocal count-in.

Harmonic Recall

Tempo: Crotchet=95 bpm

The examiner will play a two-bar chord sequence in the key of C major, drawn from chords I, IIm, IV, V and VIm. The test contains two chords per bar, and the first chord will be the root chord. The candidate will be asked to identify the chord sequence.

General Musicianship Questions

In this part of the exam candidates will be asked five questions drawn from the topics listed below. For the notation section, the examiner will ask you to choose a piece you’ve played in the exam.

Notation

In Grade 5, candidates will be asked to:

  • Explain the meaning of the time signature or key signature
  • Explain the meaning of the tempo marking or any dynamic marking found on the score
  • Identify any note pitch name(s) or rhythm value(s) found on the score
  • Explain the meaning of any articulation or expression mark found on the score

Your Chosen Piece

In Grade 5, candidates will be asked to give one example of a musical feature of the piece which is representative of the genre, e.g. rhythmic
features, harmonic features, tempo, feel etc.

Music Theory

In Grade 5, candidates will be asked to describe the construction of a diminished 7 chord or a minor 7b5 chord.

Exam Structure

There are three types of exam available, a Grade Exam, Graded Certificate, or Performance Certificate.

Grade Exam

3 Performance Pieces (two of which may be Free Choice Pieces) Candidates choose to play either Performance Pieces or Technical Exercises first These account for 60% of the exam mark
Technical Exercises (Section A, B, C and D for Level 3 qualifications) Candidates choose to play either Performance Pieces or Technical Exercises first These account for 15% of the exam mark
Sight Reading or Improvisation & Interpretation (Debut to Grade 5); Quick Study Pieces (Grade 6 to Grade 8) Candidates are given an unseen test to prepare and perform This accounts for 10% of the exam marks
2 Ear Tests Candidates respond to 2 aural tests. These account for 10% of the exam marks
5 General Musicianship Questions Candidates answer 5 questions based on one of the pieces performed These account for 5% of the exam marks

Graded Certificate

3 Performance Pieces (two of which may be Free Choice Pieces) Candidates choose to play either Performance Pieces or Technical Exercises first These account for 75% of the exam mark
Technical Exercises Candidates choose to play either Performance Pieces or Technical Exercises first These account for 25% of the exam mark

Performance Certificate

5 Performance Pieces only (three of these can be Free Choice Pieces) These account for 20% of the exam mark each.

Assessment Criteria

(Please note: Graded Certificates consist of just Performance Pieces and Technical Exercises. Please see the exam structure tab for more info)

Performance Pieces

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 18-20 15-17 12-14 6-11 0-5
Command of Instrument Consistently clear production of sound and even tone quality throughout Mostly clear production of sound and even tone quality overall Some clear production of sound and generally even tone quality Sound produced is unclear with uneven quality of tone produced No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Sync or Pulse Performance consistently synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance mostly synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance sometimes synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance not synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse not maintained No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Accuracy & Understanding all of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout. Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time. Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall. Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time. Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time. Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure not evidenced. No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Style & Expression Consistently convincing projection of the music. Mostly convincing projection of the music. Some convincing projection of the music. Music not convincingly projected. No attempt and/or incomplete performance

Technical Exercises

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 13–15 11–12 9–10 4–8 0–3
Command of Instrument Consistently clear production of sound and even tone quality throughout Mostly clear production of sound and even tone quality overall Some clear production of sound and generally even tone quality Sound produced is unclear with uneven quality of tone produced No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Sync or Pulse Performance consistently synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance mostly synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance sometimes synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance not synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse not maintained No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Accuracy & Understanding all of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout. Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time. Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall. Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time. Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time. Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure not evidenced. No attempt and/or incomplete performance

Ear Tests

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 9-10 7-8 6 3-5 0-2
Accuracy & Understanding All of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout. Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time. Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall. Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time. Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time. Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure not evidenced. No attempt and/or incomplete performance

Supporting Tests

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 9-10 7-8 6 3-5 0-2
Command of Instrument Consistently clear production of sound and even tone quality throughout Mostly clear production of sound and even tone quality overall Some clear production of sound and generally even tone quality Sound produced is unclear with uneven quality of tone produced No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Sync or Pulse Performance consistently synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance mostly synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance sometimes synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance not synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse not maintained No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Accuracy & Understanding All of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout. Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time. Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall. Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time. Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time. Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure not evidenced. No attempt and/or incomplete performance

General Musicianship Questions

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 5 correct responses 4 correct responses 3 correct responses 2 correct responses 0-1 correct responses

Performance Certificate

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 18-20 15-17 12-14 6-11 0-5
Command of Instrument Consistently clear production of sound and even tone quality throughout Mostly clear production of sound and even tone quality overall Some clear production of sound and generally even tone quality Sound produced is unclear with uneven quality of tone produced No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Sync or Pulse Performance consistently synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance mostly synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance sometimes synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance not synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse not maintained No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Accuracy & Understanding All of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout. Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time. Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall. Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time. Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time. Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure not evidenced. No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Style & Expression Consistently convincing projection of the music. Mostly convincing projection of the music. Some convincing projection of the music. Music not convincingly projected. No attempt and/or incomplete performance

Alto Saxophone
Grade 6

The Grade 6 Alto Sax exam is for candidates who have been typically learning for three years or more and who have fully consolidated their intermediate level playing. They have mastered the key skills up to Grade 5 and since acquired a greater use of appropriate technique, more complex rhythms, coordination and musical understanding. Candidates will have developed a good sense of expression, have a strong grasp of stylistic awareness, and there is also the opportunity to improvise which is now individual, assured, accurate and expressive.

There are three types of exams available: Grade Exam, Graded Certificate or Performance Certificate.

Estimated Examination Time:

  • Grade Exam: 32 minutes (approx.)
  • Performance Certificate: 27 minutes (approx.)
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The Alto Sax Grade 6 book contains everything you need to sit your Grade 6 exam – in one essential book.

Alto Sax Grade 6

Alto Sax Grade 6

The essential syllabus for the aspiring, contemporary Saxophonist. Rockschool Alto Saxophone Grad...
Graded Music Exam Grade 6

Graded Music Exam: Grade 6

All Instruments - General guidance: Graded Music Exams Overview - How to book an exam UK / Republ...

Performance Pieces

The pieces in the grade book can be used for both the Grade Exam and Performance Certificate. The expectation and length of pieces are designed so candidates can acquire a solid understanding and execution of notation accuracy, values, evenness of sound, tone quality/consistency, technical control, articulation, expression, style awareness and sync at an early intermediate level.

Featured Repertoire:

  • Duke Ellington – Take the “A” Train
  • Marvin Gaye – What’s Going On
  • Tower of Power – Only So Much Oil In The Ground
  • Gladys Knight & the Pips – Midnight Train to Georgia
  • Etta James – Something’s Got a Hold on Me
  • Grover Washington Jr. – Winelight

Technical Exercises

At Grade 5 there are three groups of technical work: scales, arpeggios and a technical study.

In this part of the exam, the examiner will ask for a selection of scales (Group A) and arpeggios (Group B) drawn from the lists below. All scales and arpeggios should be prepared with tongued, slurred and off-beat quaver swing tonguing. The examiner will announce the key, scale or arpeggio type and articulation for each example.

 

GROUP A – Scales

Tempo: Crotchet=90 bpm

  • G major scale, to the 12th
  • A major scale, to the 12th
  • D dorian mode, two octaves
  • Bb dorian mode, two octaves
  • D minor pentatonic scale, two octaves
  • Bb minor pentatonic scale, two octaves
  • D mixolydian mode, two octaves
  • Bb mixolydian mode, two octaves
  • D blues scale, two octaves
  • Bb blues scale, two octaves
  • D chromatic scale, two octaves
  • Bb chromatic scale, two octaves
  • F# phrygian dominant, one octave
  • D phrygian dominant, one octave
  • G major exercise in broken thirds, to the 12th

 

GROUP B – Arpeggios

Tempo: Crotchet=80 bpm

  • G major 7 arpeggio, to the 12th
  • G minor 7 arpeggio, to the 12th
  • G dominant 7 arpeggio, to the 12th
  • Db diminished 7 arpeggio, two octaves

 

GROUP C – Technical Study

Candidates are to perform their choice of one of the three technical studies given in the grade book. The examiner will ask which study the candidate has prepared.

Supporting Tests

Quick Study Piece

At this grade, the candidate will be asked to prepare and play a Quick Study Piece (QSP). Candidates will be required to sight-read a section of notation and improvise melodies over a chord sequence. An example QSP is provided in the grade book, however, the examiner will give the candidate a different version in the exam.

The candidate will be shown the test and played the track with the notated parts played. Any bars that require improvisation will not be demonstrated. The candidate will then have three minutes to study the test with the option of a click track. The backing track will be played twice more. The candidate will be allowed to practise during the first playing of the backing track, with the notated parts now absent, before playing it to the examiner on the second playing of the backing track.

The piece will contain 8 bars of sight reading and 8–10 bars of improvisation and will be written in a contemporary music genre such as:

  • Rock
  • Pop
  • Blues
  • Soul
  • R&B

Ear Tests

There are two tests: Melodic Recall and Harmonic Recall.

Melodic Recall

Tempo: Crotchet=95 bpm

The examiner will play the candidate a two-bar melody with a drum backing using the B mixolydian mode or B dorian mode. The first note of the melody will be the root note. The candidate will play the melody back on their instrument.

The test begins with a reference root note. The melody will then be played twice. Each time the melody is played it is preceded by a vocal count-in. There will then be a short gap for the candidate to practise. After the third vocal count-in (signifying the assessed part of the test) the candidate should play the melody along to the drum backing.

Harmonic Recall

Tempo: Crotchet=95 bpm

The examiner will play the candidate a two-bar chord sequence in the key of C major, drawn from chords I maj 7, IIm7, IVmaj7, V7 and VIm7. The test contains two chords per bar, and the first chord will be the root chord. The candidate will be asked to identify the chord sequence.

The test begins with a reference root note. The chord sequence will then be played twice. Each time the chord sequence is played, it is preceded by a vocal count-in. After the second playthrough, the examiner will ask the candidate to state the chord sequence. The candidate may use chord names (C major 7, G 7 etc.) or numerals (I major 7, V 7 etc.).

General Musicianship Questions

The final part of the exam is the General Musicianship Questions (GMQs) section, where the examiner will ask five questions drawn from the topics listed below. For the notation section, the examiner will ask the candidate to choose a piece they’ve played in the exam.

Notation

The candidate may be asked to explain the meaning of a number of features found on your score, drawn from the following:

  • time signature
  • key signature
  • tempo marking
  • repeat symbols
  • navigation (D.S., D.C., Coda etc.)
  • articulation/expression indications and symbols
  • dynamic indications
  • special effects indications and symbols

The candidate may also be asked to:

  • identify the pitch of any note(s) found on your score
  • identify the rhythmic value of any note(s) or rest(s) found on your score

Genre

The candidate may be asked to give one example of a musical feature of the piece which is representative of its genre, for example:

  • rhythmic features
  • harmonic features
  • melodic features
  • tempo
  • feel/groove

Music Theory

The candidate may be asked to describe the construction of one of the following chord types:

  • major 9
  • minor 9
  • dominant 9

Exam Structure

There are three types of exam available, a Grade Exam, Graded Certificate, or Performance Certificate.

Grade Exam

3 Performance Pieces (two of which may be Free Choice Pieces) Candidates choose to play either Performance Pieces or Technical Exercises first These account for 60% of the exam mark
Technical Exercises (Section A, B, C and D for Level 3 qualifications) Candidates choose to play either Performance Pieces or Technical Exercises first These account for 15% of the exam mark
Sight Reading or Improvisation & Interpretation (Debut to Grade 5); Quick Study Pieces (Grade 6 to Grade 8) Candidates are given an unseen test to prepare and perform This accounts for 10% of the exam marks
2 Ear Tests Candidates respond to 2 aural tests. These account for 10% of the exam marks
5 General Musicianship Questions Candidates answer 5 questions based on one of the pieces performed These account for 5% of the exam marks

Graded Certificate

3 Performance Pieces (two of which may be Free Choice Pieces) Candidates choose to play either Performance Pieces or Technical Exercises first These account for 75% of the exam mark
Technical Exercises Candidates choose to play either Performance Pieces or Technical Exercises first These account for 25% of the exam mark

Performance Certificate

5 Performance Pieces only (three of these can be Free Choice Pieces) These account for 20% of the exam mark each.

Assessment Criteria

(Please note: Graded Certificates consist of just Performance Pieces and Technical Exercises. Please see the exam structure tab for more info)

Performance Pieces

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 18-20 15-17 12-14 6-11 0-5
Command of Instrument Consistently clear production of sound and even tone quality throughout Mostly clear production of sound and even tone quality overall Some clear production of sound and generally even tone quality Sound produced is unclear with uneven quality of tone produced No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Sync or Pulse Performance consistently synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance mostly synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance sometimes synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance not synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse not maintained No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Accuracy & Understanding all of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout. Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time. Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall. Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time. Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time. Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure not evidenced. No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Style & Expression Consistently convincing projection of the music. Mostly convincing projection of the music. Some convincing projection of the music. Music not convincingly projected. No attempt and/or incomplete performance

Technical Exercises

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 13–15 11–12 9–10 4–8 0–3
Command of Instrument Consistently clear production of sound and even tone quality throughout Mostly clear production of sound and even tone quality overall Some clear production of sound and generally even tone quality Sound produced is unclear with uneven quality of tone produced No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Sync or Pulse Performance consistently synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance mostly synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance sometimes synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance not synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse not maintained No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Accuracy & Understanding all of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout. Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time. Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall. Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time. Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time. Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure not evidenced. No attempt and/or incomplete performance

Ear Tests

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 9-10 7-8 6 3-5 0-2
Accuracy & Understanding All of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout. Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time. Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall. Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time. Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time. Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure not evidenced. No attempt and/or incomplete performance

Supporting Tests

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 9-10 7-8 6 3-5 0-2
Command of Instrument Consistently clear production of sound and even tone quality throughout Mostly clear production of sound and even tone quality overall Some clear production of sound and generally even tone quality Sound produced is unclear with uneven quality of tone produced No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Sync or Pulse Performance consistently synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance mostly synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance sometimes synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance not synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse not maintained No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Accuracy & Understanding All of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout. Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time. Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall. Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time. Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time. Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure not evidenced. No attempt and/or incomplete performance

General Musicianship Questions

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 5 correct responses 4 correct responses 3 correct responses 2 correct responses 0-1 correct responses

Performance Certificate

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 18-20 15-17 12-14 6-11 0-5
Command of Instrument Consistently clear production of sound and even tone quality throughout Mostly clear production of sound and even tone quality overall Some clear production of sound and generally even tone quality Sound produced is unclear with uneven quality of tone produced No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Sync or Pulse Performance consistently synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance mostly synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance sometimes synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance not synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse not maintained No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Accuracy & Understanding All of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout. Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time. Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall. Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time. Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time. Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure not evidenced. No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Style & Expression Consistently convincing projection of the music. Mostly convincing projection of the music. Some convincing projection of the music. Music not convincingly projected. No attempt and/or incomplete performance

Alto Saxophone
Grade 7

The Grade 7 Alto Sax exam is for candidates who have been typically learning for three years or more and who have fully consolidated their intermediate level playing. They have mastered the key skills up to Grade 6 and since acquired a greater use of appropriate technique, more complex rhythms, coordination and musical understanding. Candidates will have developed a good sense of expression, have a strong grasp of stylistic awareness, and there is also the opportunity to improvise which is now individual, assured, accurate and expressive.

There are three types of exams available: Grade Exam, Graded Certificate or Performance Certificate.

Estimated Examination Time:

  • Grade Exam: 32 minutes (approx.)
  • Performance Certificate: 27 minutes (approx.)
RS-Instruments-Saxophone

Purchase Your Book & Exam Entry

The Alto Sax Grade 7 book contains everything you need to sit your Grade 7 exam – in one essential book.

Alto Sax Grade 7

Alto Sax Grade 7

The essential syllabus for the aspiring, contemporary Saxophonist. Rockschool Alto Saxophone Grad...
Graded Music Exam Grade 7

Graded Music Exam: Grade 7

General guidance: Graded Music Exams Overview - How to book an exam UK / Republic of Ireland info...

Performance Pieces

The pieces in the grade book can be used for both the Grade Exam and Performance Certificate. The expectation and length of pieces are designed so candidates can acquire a solid understanding and execution of notation accuracy, values, evenness of sound, tone quality/consistency, technical control, articulation, expression, style awareness and sync at an early intermediate level.

Featured Repertoire:

  • Britney Spears – Toxic
  • Stevie Wonder – Sir Duke
  • Snarky Puppy – Lingus
  • Toto – Africa
  • D’Angelo – Spanish Joint
  • David Stewart ft. Candy Dulfer – Lily Was Here

Technical Exercises

At Grade 7 there are three groups of technical work: scales, arpeggios and a technical study.

In this part of the exam, the examiner will ask for a selection of scales (Group A) and arpeggios (Group B) drawn from the lists below. All scales and arpeggios should be prepared with tongued, slurred and off-beat quaver swing tonguing. The examiner will announce the key, scale or arpeggio type and articulation for each example.

 

GROUP A – Scales

Tempo: Crotchet=110 bpm

  • Ab major scale, to the 12th
  • C dorian mode, two octaves
  • Eb dorian mode, two octaves
  • B dorian mode, two octaves
  • C minor pentatonic scale, two octaves
  • Eb minor pentatonic scale, two octaves
  • B minor pentatonic scale, two octaves
  • C mixolydian mode, two octaves
  • Eb mixolydian mode, two octaves
  • B mixolydian mode, two octaves
  • C blues scale, two octaves
  • Eb blues scale, two octaves
  • B blues scale, two octaves
  • C chromatic scale, two octaves
  • Eb chromatic scale, two octaves
  • B chromatic scale, two octaves
  • F phrygian dominant scale, one octave
  • C phrygian dominant scale, one octave
  • D major exercise in broken thirds, two octaves

 

GROUP B – Arpeggios

Tempo: Crotchet=80 bpm

  • Ab major 7 arpeggio, to the 12th
  • Ab minor 7 arpeggio, to the 12th
  • Ab dominant 7 arpeggio, to the 12th
  • C diminished 7 arpeggio, two octaves
  • B diminished 7 arpeggio, two octaves

 

GROUP C – Technical Study

Candidates are to perform their choice of one of the three technical studies given in the grade book. The examiner will ask which study the candidate has prepared.

Supporting Tests

Quick Study Piece

At this grade the candidate will be asked to prepare and play a Quick Study Piece (QSP). Candidates will be required to sight-read a section of notation and improvise melodies over a chord sequence. An example QSP is provided in the grade book, however, the examiner will give the candidate a different version in the exam.

The candidate will be shown the test and played the track with the notated parts played. Any bars that require improvisation will not be demonstrated. The candidate will then have three minutes to study the test with the option of a click track. The backing track will be played twice more. The candidate will be allowed to practise during the first playing of the backing track, with the notated parts now absent, before playing it to the examiner on the second playing of the backing track.

The piece will contain 8 –12 bars of sight reading and 8 –12 bars of improvisation, and will be written in a contemporary music genre such as:

  • Rock
  • Pop
  • Blues
  • Soul
  • R&B

Ear Tests

There are two tests: Melodic Recall and Harmonic Recall.

Melodic Recall

Tempo: Crotchet=95 bpm

The examiner will play the candidate at wo-bar melody with a drum backing using the E  mixolydian mode or Bb dorian mode. The first note of the melody will be the root note. The candidate will play the melody back on their instrument.

The test begins with a reference root note. The melody will then be played twice. Each time the melody is played it is preceded by a vocal count-in. There will then be a short gap for the candidate to practise. After the third vocal count-in (signifying the assessed part of the test) the candidate should play the melody along with the drum backing.

Harmonic Recall

Tempo: Crotchet=95 bpm

The examiner will play the candidate a two-bar chord sequence in the key of C major, drawn from any diatonic chords, including sevenths. The test contains two chords per bar. The candidate will be asked to identify the chord sequence.

The test begins with a reference root note. The chord sequence will then be played twice. Each time the chord sequence is played, it is preceded by a vocal count-in. After the second playthrough, the examiner will ask the candidate to state the chord sequence. The candidate may use chord names (C major 7, G 7 etc.) or numerals (I major 7, V 7 etc.).

General Musicianship Questions

The final part of the exam is the General Musicianship Questions (GMQs) section, where the examiner will ask five questions drawn from the topics listed below. For the notation section, the examiner will ask the candidate to choose a piece they’ve played in the exam.

Notation

The candidate may be asked to explain the meaning of a number of features found on your score, drawn from the following:

  • time signature
  • key signature
  • tempo marking
  • repeat symbols
  • navigation (D.S., D.C., Coda etc.)
  • articulation/expression indications and symbols
  • dynamic indications
  • special effects indications and symbols

The candidate may also be asked to:

  • identify the pitch of any note(s) found on your score
  • identify the rhythmic value of any note(s) or rest(s) found on your score

Genre

The candidate may be asked to give one example of a musical feature of the piece which is representative of its genre, for example:

  • rhythmic features
  • harmonic features
  • melodic features
  • tempo
  • feel/groove

Music Theory

The candidate may be asked to describe the construction of one of the following chord types:

  • dominant 7b9
  • dominant 7#9

Exam Structure

There are three types of exam available, a Grade Exam, Graded Certificate, or Performance Certificate.

Grade Exam

3 Performance Pieces (two of which may be Free Choice Pieces) Candidates choose to play either Performance Pieces or Technical Exercises first These account for 60% of the exam mark
Technical Exercises (Section A, B, C and D for Level 3 qualifications) Candidates choose to play either Performance Pieces or Technical Exercises first These account for 15% of the exam mark
Sight Reading or Improvisation & Interpretation (Debut to Grade 5); Quick Study Pieces (Grade 6 to Grade 8) Candidates are given an unseen test to prepare and perform This accounts for 10% of the exam marks
2 Ear Tests Candidates respond to 2 aural tests. These account for 10% of the exam marks
5 General Musicianship Questions Candidates answer 5 questions based on one of the pieces performed These account for 5% of the exam marks

Graded Certificate

3 Performance Pieces (two of which may be Free Choice Pieces) Candidates choose to play either Performance Pieces or Technical Exercises first These account for 75% of the exam mark
Technical Exercises Candidates choose to play either Performance Pieces or Technical Exercises first These account for 25% of the exam mark

Performance Certificate

5 Performance Pieces only (three of these can be Free Choice Pieces) These account for 20% of the exam mark each.

Assessment Criteria

(Please note: Graded Certificates consist of just Performance Pieces and Technical Exercises. Please see the exam structure tab for more info)

Performance Pieces

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 18-20 15-17 12-14 6-11 0-5
Command of Instrument Consistently clear production of sound and even tone quality throughout Mostly clear production of sound and even tone quality overall Some clear production of sound and generally even tone quality Sound produced is unclear with uneven quality of tone produced No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Sync or Pulse Performance consistently synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance mostly synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance sometimes synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance not synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse not maintained No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Accuracy & Understanding all of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout. Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time. Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall. Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time. Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time. Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure not evidenced. No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Style & Expression Consistently convincing projection of the music. Mostly convincing projection of the music. Some convincing projection of the music. Music not convincingly projected. No attempt and/or incomplete performance

Technical Exercises

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 13–15 11–12 9–10 4–8 0–3
Command of Instrument Consistently clear production of sound and even tone quality throughout Mostly clear production of sound and even tone quality overall Some clear production of sound and generally even tone quality Sound produced is unclear with uneven quality of tone produced No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Sync or Pulse Performance consistently synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance mostly synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance sometimes synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance not synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse not maintained No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Accuracy & Understanding all of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout. Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time. Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall. Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time. Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time. Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure not evidenced. No attempt and/or incomplete performance

Ear Tests

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 9-10 7-8 6 3-5 0-2
Accuracy & Understanding All of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout. Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time. Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall. Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time. Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time. Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure not evidenced. No attempt and/or incomplete performance

Supporting Tests

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 9-10 7-8 6 3-5 0-2
Command of Instrument Consistently clear production of sound and even tone quality throughout Mostly clear production of sound and even tone quality overall Some clear production of sound and generally even tone quality Sound produced is unclear with uneven quality of tone produced No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Sync or Pulse Performance consistently synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance mostly synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance sometimes synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance not synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse not maintained No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Accuracy & Understanding All of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout. Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time. Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall. Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time. Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time. Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure not evidenced. No attempt and/or incomplete performance

General Musicianship Questions

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 5 correct responses 4 correct responses 3 correct responses 2 correct responses 0-1 correct responses

Performance Certificate

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 18-20 15-17 12-14 6-11 0-5
Command of Instrument Consistently clear production of sound and even tone quality throughout Mostly clear production of sound and even tone quality overall Some clear production of sound and generally even tone quality Sound produced is unclear with uneven quality of tone produced No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Sync or Pulse Performance consistently synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance mostly synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance sometimes synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance not synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse not maintained No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Accuracy & Understanding All of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout. Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time. Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall. Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time. Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time. Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure not evidenced. No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Style & Expression Consistently convincing projection of the music. Mostly convincing projection of the music. Some convincing projection of the music. Music not convincingly projected. No attempt and/or incomplete performance

Alto Saxophone
Grade 8

The Grade 8 Alto Sax exam is for candidates who have been typically learning for three years or more and who have fully consolidated their intermediate level playing. They have mastered the key skills up to Grade 7 and since acquired a greater use of appropriate technique, more complex rhythms, coordination and musical understanding. Candidates will have developed a good sense of expression, have a strong grasp of stylistic awareness, and there is also the opportunity to improvise which is now individual, assured, accurate and expressive.

There are three types of exams available: Grade Exam, Graded Certificate or Performance Certificate.

Estimated Examination Time:

  • Grade Exam: 32 minutes (approx.)
  • Performance Certificate: 30 minutes (approx.)
RS-Instruments-Saxophone

Purchase Your Book & Exam Entry

The Alto Sax Grade 8 book contains everything you need to sit your Grade 8 exam – in one essential book.

Alto Sax Grade 8

Alto Sax Grade 8

The essential syllabus for the aspiring, contemporary Saxophonist. Rockschool Alto Saxophone Grad...
Graded Music Exam Grade 8

Graded Music Exam: Grade 8

All instruments - General guidance: Graded Music Exams Overview - How to book an exam UK / Republ...

Performance Pieces

The pieces in the grade book can be used for both the Grade Exam and Performance Certificate. The expectation and length of pieces are designed so candidates can acquire a solid understanding and execution of notation accuracy, values, evenness of sound, tone quality/consistency, technical control, articulation, expression, style awareness and sync at an early intermediate level.

Featured Repertoire:

  • Trombone Shorty – Hurricane Season
  • Louis Armstrong – Hotter Than That
  • Average White Band – Pick Up the Pieces
  • Randy Crawford – Street Life
  • Benny Goodman – Sing, Sing, Sing
  • Earth, Wind & Fire – September

Technical Exercises

At Grade 8, there are three groups of technical work: scales, arpeggios and a technical study.

In this part of the exam, the examiner will ask for a selection of scales (Group A) and arpeggios (Group B) drawn from the lists below. All scales and arpeggios should be prepared with tongued, slurred and off-beat quaver swing tonguing. The examiner will announce the key, scale or arpeggio type and articulation for each example.

 

GROUP A – Scales

Tempo: Crotchet=125 bpm

  • D major scale, to the 12th
  • Bb major scale, to the 12th
  • Eb major scale, to the 12th
  • F# dorian mode, to the 12th
  • C# minor pentatonic scale, two octaves
  • E minor pentatonic scale, two octaves
  • C# mixolydian mode, two octaves
  • E mixolydian mode, two octaves
  • C# blues scale, two octaves
  • E blues scale, two octaves
  • C# chromatic scale, two octaves
  • E chromatic scale, two octaves
  • C# phrygian dominant scale, one octave
  • G# phrygian dominant scale, one octave
  • Eb major exercise in broken thirds, two octaves
  • Bb major exercise in broken thirds, two octaves

 

GROUP B – Arpeggios

Tempo: Crotchet=80 bpm

  • D major 7 arpeggio, to the 12th
  • Bb major 7 arpeggio, to the 12th
  • Eb major 7 arpeggio, to the 12th
  • D minor 7 arpeggio, to the 12th
  • Bb minor 7 arpeggio, to the 12th
  • Eb minor 7 arpeggio, to the 12th
  • D dominant 7 arpeggio, to the 12th
  • Bb dominant 7 arpeggio, to the 12th
  • Eb dominant 7 arpeggio, to the 12th
  • C# diminished 7 arpeggio, two octaves

 

GROUP C – Technical Study

Candidates are to perform their choice of one of the three technical studies given in the grade book. The examiner will ask which study the candidate has prepared.

Supporting Tests

Quick Study Piece

At this grade the candidate will be asked to prepare and play a Quick Study Piece (QSP). Candidates will be required to sight-read a section of notation and improvise melodies over a chord sequence. An example QSP is provided in the grade book, however, the examiner will give the candidate a different version in the exam.

The candidate will be shown the test and played the track with the notated parts played. Any bars that require improvisation will not be demonstrated. The candidate will then have three minutes to study the test with the option of a click track. The backing track will be played twice more. The candidate will be allowed to practise during the first playing of the backing track, with the notated parts now absent, before playing it to the examiner on the second playing of the backing track.

The piece will contain up to 12 bars of sight reading and up to 16 bars of improvisation, and will be written in a contemporary music genre such as:

  • Rock
  • Pop
  • Blues
  • Soul
  • Jazz
  • Funk
  • R&B

Ear Tests

There are two tests: Melodic Recall and Harmonic Recall.

Melodic Recall

Tempo: Crotchet=95 bpm

The examiner will play the candidate a two-bar melody with a drum backing, containing notes drawn from both the F# blues scale and the F# dorian mode. The first note of the melody will be the root note. The candidate will play the melody back on their instrument.

The test begins with a reference root note. The melody will then be played twice. Each time the melody is played it is preceded by a vocal count-in. There will then be a short gap for the candidate to practise. After the third vocal count-in (signifying the assessed part of the test) the candidate should play the melody along with the drum backing.

Harmonic Recall

Tempo: Crotchet=95 bpm

The examiner will play you a two-bar chord sequence in the key of C major or C minor, drawn from any diatonic chords, including sevenths. The test contains two chords per bar. You will be asked to identify the chord sequence.

The test begins with a reference root note. The chord sequence will then be played twice. Each time the chord sequence is played, it is preceded by a vocal count-in. After the second playthrough, the examiner will ask the candidate to state the chord sequence. The candidate may use chord names (C major 7, G 7 etc.) or numerals (I major 7, V 7 etc.).

General Musicianship Questions

The final part of the exam is the General Musicianship Questions (GMQs) section, where the examiner will ask five questions drawn from the topics listed below. For the notation section, the examiner will ask the candidate to choose a piece they’ve played in the exam.

Notation

The candidate may be asked to explain the meaning of a number of features found on your score, drawn from the following:

  • time signature
  • key signature
  • tempo marking
  • repeat symbols
  • navigation (D.S., D.C., Coda etc.)
  • articulation/expression indications and symbols
  • dynamic indications
  • special effects indications and symbols

The candidate may also be asked to:

  • identify the pitch of any note(s) found on your score
  • identify the rhythmic value of any note(s) or rest(s) found on your score

Genre

The candidate may be asked to give one example of a musical feature of the piece which is representative of its genre, for example:

  • rhythmic features
  • harmonic features
  • melodic features
  • tempo
  • feel/groove

Music Theory

The candidate may be asked to describe the construction of one of the following chord types:

  • dominant 9#11

Exam Structure

There are three types of exam available, a Grade Exam, Graded Certificate, or Performance Certificate.

Grade Exam

3 Performance Pieces (two of which may be Free Choice Pieces) Candidates choose to play either Performance Pieces or Technical Exercises first These account for 60% of the exam mark
Technical Exercises (Section A, B, C and D for Level 3 qualifications) Candidates choose to play either Performance Pieces or Technical Exercises first These account for 15% of the exam mark
Sight Reading or Improvisation & Interpretation (Debut to Grade 5); Quick Study Pieces (Grade 6 to Grade 8) Candidates are given an unseen test to prepare and perform This accounts for 10% of the exam marks
2 Ear Tests Candidates respond to 2 aural tests. These account for 10% of the exam marks
5 General Musicianship Questions Candidates answer 5 questions based on one of the pieces performed These account for 5% of the exam marks

Graded Certificate

3 Performance Pieces (two of which may be Free Choice Pieces) Candidates choose to play either Performance Pieces or Technical Exercises first These account for 75% of the exam mark
Technical Exercises Candidates choose to play either Performance Pieces or Technical Exercises first These account for 25% of the exam mark

Performance Certificate

5 Performance Pieces only (three of these can be Free Choice Pieces) These account for 20% of the exam mark each.

Assessment Criteria

(Please note: Graded Certificates consist of just Performance Pieces and Technical Exercises. Please see the exam structure tab for more info)

Performance Pieces

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 18-20 15-17 12-14 6-11 0-5
Command of Instrument Consistently clear production of sound and even tone quality throughout Mostly clear production of sound and even tone quality overall Some clear production of sound and generally even tone quality Sound produced is unclear with uneven quality of tone produced No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Sync or Pulse Performance consistently synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance mostly synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance sometimes synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance not synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse not maintained No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Accuracy & Understanding all of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout. Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time. Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall. Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time. Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time. Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure not evidenced. No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Style & Expression Consistently convincing projection of the music. Mostly convincing projection of the music. Some convincing projection of the music. Music not convincingly projected. No attempt and/or incomplete performance

Technical Exercises

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 13–15 11–12 9–10 4–8 0–3
Command of Instrument Consistently clear production of sound and even tone quality throughout Mostly clear production of sound and even tone quality overall Some clear production of sound and generally even tone quality Sound produced is unclear with uneven quality of tone produced No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Sync or Pulse Performance consistently synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance mostly synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance sometimes synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance not synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse not maintained No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Accuracy & Understanding all of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout. Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time. Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall. Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time. Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time. Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure not evidenced. No attempt and/or incomplete performance

Ear Tests

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 9-10 7-8 6 3-5 0-2
Accuracy & Understanding All of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout. Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time. Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall. Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time. Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time. Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure not evidenced. No attempt and/or incomplete performance

Supporting Tests

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 9-10 7-8 6 3-5 0-2
Command of Instrument Consistently clear production of sound and even tone quality throughout Mostly clear production of sound and even tone quality overall Some clear production of sound and generally even tone quality Sound produced is unclear with uneven quality of tone produced No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Sync or Pulse Performance consistently synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance mostly synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance sometimes synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance not synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse not maintained No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Accuracy & Understanding All of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout. Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time. Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall. Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time. Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time. Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure not evidenced. No attempt and/or incomplete performance

General Musicianship Questions

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 5 correct responses 4 correct responses 3 correct responses 2 correct responses 0-1 correct responses

Performance Certificate

Attainment Band Distinction Merit Pass Below Pass Below Pass 2
Mark Range 18-20 15-17 12-14 6-11 0-5
Command of Instrument Consistently clear production of sound and even tone quality throughout Mostly clear production of sound and even tone quality overall Some clear production of sound and generally even tone quality Sound produced is unclear with uneven quality of tone produced No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Sync or Pulse Performance consistently synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance mostly synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance sometimes synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained Performance not synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse not maintained No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Accuracy & Understanding All of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout. Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time. Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall. Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time. Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time. Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated. Understanding of musical structure not evidenced. No attempt and/or incomplete performance
Style & Expression Consistently convincing projection of the music. Mostly convincing projection of the music. Some convincing projection of the music. Music not convincingly projected. No attempt and/or incomplete performance

Downloads

Download the Rockschool Horn Section – Alto Saxophone syllabus for free! Here you will also find a range of resources to support your journey with Rockschool.

Graded Music Exam Fees

Please find all graded music exam fees below. Simply select your chosen exam format and your location to see the relevant fees.

Exam grade Price
Entry Level 3 (Debut) £55.00
Grade 1 £61.00
Grade 2 £68.00
Grade 3 £79.00
Grade 4 £87.00
Grade 5 £95.00
Grade 6 £108.00
Grade 7 £117.00
Grade 8 £130.00

Please see “other fees” below relating to UK Graded Music Exams.

Late Entry, Date Changes & Deferrals

Service Applicable When... Fee
Date Change Changing exam date/time after appointment slip has been issued £30
Deferral Deferring exam to future exam period £30

Please see the UK Graded Exams Date Change & Deferral policy for circumstances where the fee can be waived.

In the event that your video submission cannot be marked or marking is impacted because guidelines have not been followed correctly, you will be charged 75% of the entry fee to make a resubmission.

Enquiries about Results / Appeals

Service Fee Cap for Multiple Candidates Refundable
Remark 50% of Exam Fee £100 If marks change by more than +/-5 or there is a change of assessment band
First Level Appeal 60% of Exam Fee £150 If enquiry is upheld
Second Level Appeal 75% of Exam Fee £200 If enquiry if upheld

Replacement Certificate

Service Fee
Replacement Certificate £15

Graded Music Exam Dates

See the dates below for face-to-face Graded Music Exams for all Rockschool and RSL Classical disciplines in the UK and Ireland. Music Production and Theory exams are conducted online and are not bound by any set exam periods.

Term Exam Dates Closing Date
A 2025 17th February - 13th April 2025 10th February 2025
B 2025 12th May – 12th August 2025 6th May 2025
C 2025 27th October – 20th December 2025 20th October 2025

 

Please note: dates are subject to change. Ensure you check back prior to entry to avoid entering for the incorrect exam period.

If you would like to book a private exam day in the UK or Ireland, please email business@rslawards.com

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Digital Files

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Every complete digital book (e.g. Electric Guitar Grade 1) includes:

  • PDF sheet music
  • MP3 audio
  • Supporting tests

Download Limits

We know downloading digital content can be frustrating at times which is why we’ve given you multiple chances to download your audio and sheet music.

Each complete digital book purchased includes:

  • 5 audio downloads
  • 3 sheet music downloadsThis means if you misplace your content, or if your download times-out, you’ll still have plenty of attempts to download your content.

Purchase Options

1. Hard Copy

The hard copy or paperback version can be purchased from our shop for shipping to the UK. Orders for shipping to other countries can be placed via www.musicroom.com. The paperback version includes everything you need for your exam in one essential book, including sheet music, a code for access to MP3 audio and complete supporting tests.

2. Digital Download (where applicable)

Digital downloads is the most popular way of purchasing and downloading a Rockschool book, track or supporting test. Rockschool digital book downloads come complete with PDF sheet music, MP3 audio and supporting tests for instant accessibility on all your favourite devices.

Note: Digital sheet music is stamped with your email address and order number.

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The RSL e-books, utilising Learning Platform technology powered by MatchMySound, are the ultimate practise tool, giving you the ability to master your instrument like never before.

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