Performance Pieces

In Rockschool Ukulele Method Book 1, there are five specially composed songs arranged for Premiere level ukulele students.

Rockschool Originals

• Leaping Around
• Out of Town
• Rockin’ and a Rollin’
• The Hawker
• I C U

Candidates are NOT permitted to submit Free Choice Pieces for the Premiere exam.

Performance Pieces

The pieces in the grade book can be used for both the Grade Exam and Performance Certificate. At Debut, they are short, typically up to one minute in duration. The expectation and length of pieces are designed so candidates can concentrate on the requirements of notation accuracy, values, evenness of sound, tone quality/consistency, technical control and sync at a beginner level.

Featured Repertoire:

• Marry You – Bruno Mars
• Rolling in the Deep – Adele
• Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door – Bob Dylan
• Shake it Off – Taylor Swift
• Lean On Me – Bill Withers
• Demons – Imagine Dragons

Technical Exercises

At Debut there are three groups of technical work: Scales, Arpeggios and Chord Voicings.

All exercises need to be played in straight feel, in the keys, octaves and tempos shown. Candidates may use their book during the exam for all groups.

Groups A & B need to be played to a click. The examiner will play the click at the given tempo and candidates should begin to play after four clicks.

Group C is played as announced by the examiner.

GROUP A – Scales

Tempo = 65bpm
Rhythms: Quarter notes Range: As shown in grade book

• C major
• C major pentatonic
• A minor pentatonic
• G major

GROUP B – Arpeggios

Tempo = 65bpm
Rhythms: Quarter notes Range: As shown in grade book

• C major
• A minor

GROUP C – Chord Voicings

Open position chords. Individual chords will be strummed once as directed by the examiner.

• Major Chords: C, F, G & D
• Minor Chords: Am, Dm

Supporting Tests

Sight Reading or Improvisation & Interpretation

In this section, candidates can choose between a Sight Reading test or an Improvisation & Interpretation test. The examiner will ask which the candidate has chosen before then showing the test. Once the candidate has chosen, they cannot change their mind.

Sight Reading

• Duration: 4 bars
• Rhythms: Whole, half and quarter notes
• Key: C major
• Pitches and instrumental compass: Open/first position > C&D on the 3rd string; E on the 2nd string
• Tempo = 65

Candidates will have 90 seconds to practise after which the examiner will play the backing track twice. The first time is to practise and the second time is to perform the final version for the exam. During the practice time, candidates will be given the option of a metronome click throughout or a one bar count-in at the beginning.

The backing track is continuous so once the first playthrough has finished the count-in of the second playing will start immediately.

Improvisation & Interpretation

• Duration: 4 bars
• Key: C major
• Improvisation & interpretation requirement: Single-note melodies only
• Tempo = 65

Candidates will have 90 seconds to practise after which the examiner will play the backing track twice. The first time is to practise and the second time is to perform the final version for the exam. During the practice time, candidates will be given the option of a metronome click throughout or a one bar count-in at the beginning.

The backing track is continuous so once the first playthrough has finished the count-in of the second playing will start immediately.

Ear Tests

There are two tests: Melodic Recall and Rhythmic Recall. The examiner will play each test twice.

Melodic Recall

Tempo: 85bpm

Candidates will hear two half notes one after the other and will be asked whether the second note is higher or lower in pitch than the first note.

The test will be played twice. Each time the test is played it is preceded by a one bar vocal count-in.

Rhythmic Recall

Tempo: 85bpm

Candidates will hear a two-bar rhythm played to a drum backing on the high A (1st) string.

The test will be played twice. Candidates will be asked to play the rhythm back, before identifying the rhythm from two printed examples shown to them by the examiner.

Each time the test is played it is preceded by a one bar count-in. There will be a short gap for candidates to practise. Next candidates will hear a vocal count-in and will then need to play the rhythm to the drum backing.

General Musicianship Questions

Candidates will be asked five questions. Four of these questions will be about general music knowledge relating to the candidate’s choice of performance piece, and the fifth question asked will be about the candidate’s instrument.

Music Knowledge

The examiner will ask the candidate four music knowledge questions based on a piece of music performed in the exam. Candidates will nominate the piece of music about which the questions will be asked.

In Debut candidates will be asked to identify:

• The music stave and the TAB
• The treble clef
• Half and quarter note values

Instrument Knowledge

The examiner will also ask candidates one question regarding their instrument.

In Debut candidates will be asked to identify one of the following parts of the ukulele:

• Neck, body, tuning-pegs or bridge

Performance Pieces

The pieces in the grade book can be used for both the Grade Exam and Performance Certificate. At Grade 1 they are short, typically one to one and a half minutes in duration. The expectation and length of pieces are designed so candidates can concentrate on the requirements of notation accuracy, values, evenness of sound, tone quality/consistency, technical control and sync at a beginner level.

Featured Repertoire:

• Send My Love (To Your New Lover) – Adele
• Somewhere Over the Rainbow – Israel Kamakawiwoʻole
• Stand By Me – Ben E. King
• Take Me Home – Jess Glynne
• I’m Yours – Jason Mraz
• Wild World – Cat Stevens

Technical Exercises

At Grade 1 there are three groups of technical work: Scales, Arpeggios and Chords.

All exercises need to be played in straight feel, in the keys, octaves and tempos shown. Candidates may use their book during the exam for all groups.

Groups A & B need to be played to a click. The examiner will play the click at the given tempo and candidates should begin to play after four clicks.

Group C is played as announced by the examiner.

GROUP A – Scales

Tempo = 70bpm
Rhythms: Quarter notes
Range: As shown in grade book

• C major
• A natural minor
• G major
• F major
• C major pentatonic on 3rd and 4th strings

GROUP B – Arpeggios

Tempo = 70bpm
Rhythms: Quarter notes
Range: As shown in grade book

• G major
• F major
• D minor

GROUP C – Chord Voicings

Individual chords will be strummed once as directed by the examiner.

• Major: A, D & E
• Minor: Dm, Em & Bm
• Dominant 7: G7 & D7 (root omitted)

Supporting Tests

Sight Reading or Improvisation & Interpretation

In this section, candidates can choose between a Sight Reading test or an Improvisation & Interpretation test. The examiner will ask which the candidate has chosen before then showing the test. Once the candidate has chosen, they cannot change their mind.

Sight Reading

• Duration: 4 bars
• Rhythms: Half notes and quarter notes
• Key: G major or A minor
• Pitches and instrumental compass: Open position > E–G on the 2nd string; A, B & C on the first string
• Tempo = 70

Candidates will have 90 seconds to practise after which the examiner will play the backing track twice. The first time is to practise and the second time is to perform the final version for the exam. During the practice time, candidates will be given the option of a metronome click throughout or a one bar count-in at the beginning.

The backing track is continuous so once the first playthrough has finished the count-in of the second playing will start immediately.

Improvisation & Interpretation

• Duration: 4 bars
• Key: G major or A minor
• Improvisation & interpretation requirement: Single-note melodies only
• Tempo = 70

Candidates will have 90 seconds to practise after which the examiner will play the backing track twice. The first time is to practise and the second time is to perform the final version for the exam. During the practice time, candidates will be given the option of a metronome click throughout or a one bar count-in at the beginning.

The backing track is continuous so once the first playthrough has finished the count-in of the second playing will start immediately.

Ear Tests

There are two tests: Melodic Recall and Rhythmic Recall. The examiner will play each test twice.

Melodic Recall

Tempo: 85bpm

The examiner will play three notes in sequence. Candidates will need to tell the examiner whether the notes are higher or lower (up or down) in sequence. The test will be played twice.

Each time the test is played it is preceded by a one bar vocal count-in.

Please note: candidates may answer “higher/lower” or “up/down”.

Rhythmic Recall

Tempo: 90bpm

The examiner will play a two bar rhythm played to a drum backing on the high A string. Candidates will hear the test twice before being to play the rhythm back. Candidates will then be asked to identify the rhythm from two printed examples shown. The test will contain a combination of quarter notes, quarter-note rests, and eighth notes.

Each time the test is played it is preceded by four clicks. There will be a short gap to practise. Next, candidates will hear a vocal count-in and will then need to play the rhythm to the drum backing.

General Musicianship Questions

Candidates will be asked five questions. Four of these questions will be about general music knowledge and the fifth question asked will be about the candidate’s instrument.

Music Knowledge

The examiner will ask the candidate four music knowledge questions based on a piece of music performed in the exam. Candidates will nominate the piece of music about which the questions will be asked.

In Grade 1 candidates will be asked to identify:

• The treble clef
• The time signature
• Whole, half, quarter and eighth-note values
• The difference between a major and a minor chord

Instrument Knowledge

The examiner will also ask candidates one question regarding their instrument.

In Grade 1 candidates will be asked to identify one of the following parts of the ukulele:

• Two of the following parts of the ukulele: neck, fretboard, body, tuning-pegs, nut or bridge, sound hole
• Pitch names of the open strings

Performance Pieces

The pieces in the grade book can be used for both the Grade Exam and Performance Certificate. At Grade 2 they are short, typically one to one and a half minutes in duration. The expectation and length of pieces are designed so candidates can concentrate on the requirements of notation accuracy, values, evenness of sound, tone quality/consistency, technical control and sync at a beginner level.

Featured Repertoire:

• David Bowie – Ziggy Stardust
• Coldplay – Trouble
• The Killers – Mr. Brightside
• How Far I’ll Go – From Disney’s Moana
• James Bay – Hold Back the River
• Pharrell Williams – Happy

Technical Exercises

At Grade 2 there are three groups of technical work: Scales, Arpeggios and Chord Voicings.

All exercises need to be played in straight feel, in the keys, octaves and tempos shown. Candidates may use their book during the exam for all groups.

Groups A & B need to be played to a click. The examiner will play the click at the given tempo and candidates should begin to play after four clicks.

Group C is played as indicated below.

GROUP A – Scales

Tempo = 80bpm
Rhythms: Quarter notes
Range: As shown in the grade book

• D major
• Bb major
• C minor pentatonic
• C blues
• C major on strings 3 & 4

GROUP B – Arpeggios

Tempo = 80bpm
Rhythms: Quarter notes
Range: As shown in the grade book

• D major
• B minor
• Bb major (candidates can prepare either fingering shown in the grade book)
• G minor (candidates can prepare either fingering shown in the grade book)

GROUP C – Chord Voicings

1. Major & Minor Chords

Each chord to be strummed as directed by the examiner. Note: for each chord type, candidates must demonstrate both fingerings

• B major
• G minor

2. 7th Chords

Each chord to be strummed once as directed by the examiner.

• Gmaj7
• G7
• Gm7

3. Suspended Chords

Tempo = 80bpm
Candidates must play the given suspended chord exercise in the grade book as a continuous exercise to a click.

Supporting Tests

Sight Reading or Improvisation & Interpretation

In this section, candidates can choose between a Sight Reading test or an Improvisation & Interpretation test. The examiner will ask which the candidate has chosen before then showing the test. Once the candidate has chosen, they cannot change their mind.

Sight Reading

• Duration: 4 bars
• Rhythms: Quarter notes and quarter-note rests, eighth notes
• Key: D major or Bb minor
• Pitches and instrumental compass: Open–4th fret, any diatonic notes in D or Bb major on 1st, 2nd or 3rd string
• Tempo = 80

Candidates will have 90 seconds to practise after which the examiner will play the backing track twice. The first time is to practise and the second time is to perform the final version for the exam. During the practice time, candidates will be given the option of a metronome click throughout or a one bar count-in at the beginning.

The backing track is continuous so once the first playthrough has finished the count-in of the second playing will start immediately.

Improvisation & Interpretation

• Duration: 4 bars
• Key: D major or Bb minor
• Improvisation & interpretation requirement: Single-note melodies only
• Tempo = 85

Candidates will have 90 seconds to practise after which the examiner will play the backing track twice. The first time is to practise and the second time is to perform the final version for the exam. During the practice time, candidates will be given the option of a metronome click throughout or a one bar count-in at the beginning.

The backing track is continuous so once the first playthrough has finished the count-in of the second playing will start immediately.

Ear Tests

There are two tests: Melodic Recall and Rhythmic Recall. The examiner will play each test twice.

Melodic Recall

Tempo: 85bpm

The examiner will play a two bar melody with a drum backing using the C minor pentatonic scale. The first note of the melody will be the root note and the first interval will be ascending. The candidate must then play the melody back on their instrument. The test will be played twice.

Each time the test is played it is preceded by four clicks. There will be a short gap for practise. Next, candidates will hear a vocal count-in, after which they must play the melody to the drum backing.

Rhythmic Recall

Tempo: 90bpm

The examiner will play a two bar rhythm played to a drum backing on the high A string. The candidate will hear the test twice, then will be asked to play the rhythm back. The candidate will then be asked to identify the rhythm from two printed examples shown.

Each time the test is played it is preceded by four clicks. There will be a short gap for practise. Next, the candidate will hear a vocal count-in, after which they must play the rhythm to the drum backing.

General Musicianship Questions

Candidates will be asked five questions. Four of these questions will be about general music knowledge relating to a performance piece of the candidate’s choosing, and the fifth question asked will be about the candidate’s instrument.

Music Knowledge

The examiner will ask the candidate four music knowledge questions based on a piece of music performed in the exam. Candidates will nominate the piece of music about which the questions will be asked.

In Grade 2 candidates will be asked to identify:

• The pitch name of notes
• The meaning of the time signature marking
• Whole, half, quarter, eighth and 16th note values
• Rest values
• The construction of a major or minor chord

Instrument Knowledge

The examiner will also ask candidates one question regarding their instrument.

In Grade 2 candidates will be asked to identify one of the following parts of the ukulele:

• Three of the following parts of the ukulele: Neck, fretboard, body, tuning-pegs, nut, soundhole, or bridge
• Names of all open strings

Performance Pieces

The pieces in the grade book can be used for both the Grade Exam and Performance Certificate. At Grade 3 they are becoming longer, typically in the region of two minutes in duration. The expectation and length of pieces are designed so candidates can continue their understanding and execution of notation accuracy, values, evenness of sound, tone quality/consistency, technical control, expression, articulation and sync at a high beginner level. At Grade 3, pieces also introduce the need for stylistic awareness as part of the assessment.

Featured Repertoire:

• Perfect – Ed Sheeran
• Viva la Vida – Coldplay
• California Dreamin’ – The Mamas and The Papas
• Jamming – Bob Marley
• Golden Touch – Razorlight
• Dreaming – Imelda May

Technical Exercises

At Grade 3 there are three groups of technical work: Scales, Arpeggios and Chords.

All exercises need to be played as directed below. Candidates may use their book during the exam for all groups.

GROUP A – Scales

Tempo = 90bpm
Rhythms: Quarter notes
Range: As shown in the grade book

The following scales need to be prepared from the root notes D, E b and E:

• Major
• Natural minor
• Major pentatonic
• Minor pentatonic

The following scales need to be performed in the keys shown only, with the given fingering:

• C major pentatonic (campanella style)
• C major (linear pattern on 3rd string)

GROUP B – Arpeggios

Tempo = 90bpm
Rhythms: Quarter notes
Range: As shown in the grade book

The following arpeggios need to be prepared from the root notes D, E b and E:

• Major
• Minor
• Diminished

The following arpeggios need to be performed in the keys shown only, with the given fingering:

• D major arpeggio on four strings
• E major arpeggio on four strings

GROUP C – Chord Voicings

1. Diminished Triads

Candidates must play both the root position and first inversion triads from the following chords as stated by the examiner

• D diminished
• Eb diminished
• E diminished

2. Barre Chords in the key of D, Eb or E major

Candidates must play the barre chords shown in the key stated by the examiner, as a continuous sequence to click. Tempo = 90.

The chords in sequence are I, IV, IIm, V7 and VIm.

3. Strumming exercise in B minor

Candidates must play the chordal muting and groove exercise to continuous click.

Tempo = 90. Please note, this exercise should be played with a swung eighth-note feel.

Supporting Tests

Sight Reading or Improvisation & Interpretation

In this section, candidates can choose between a Sight Reading test or an Improvisation & Interpretation test. The examiner will ask which the candidate has chosen before then showing the test. Once the candidate has chosen, they cannot change their mind.

Sight Reading

• Duration: 4 bars
• Rhythms: Quarter notes and quarter-note rests, eighth notes and eighth-note rests
• Key: Eb major or E minor
• Tempo = 80bpm

Candidates will have 90 seconds to practise after which the examiner will play the backing track twice. The first time is to practise and the second time is to perform the final version for the exam. During the practice time, candidates will be given the option of a metronome click throughout or a one bar count-in at the beginning.

The backing track is continuous so once the first playthrough has finished the count-in of the second playing will start immediately.

Improvisation & Interpretation

• Duration: 4 bars
• Key: Eb major or minor
• Improvisation & interpretation requirement: Single-note melodies only
• Tempo = 80–90bpm

Candidates will have 90 seconds to practise after which the examiner will play the backing track twice. The first time is to practise and the second time is to perform the final version for the exam. During the practice time, candidates will be given the option of a metronome click throughout or a one bar count-in at the beginning.

The backing track is continuous so once the first playthrough has finished the count-in of the second playing will start immediately.

Ear Tests

There are two tests: Melodic Recall and Rhythmic Recall. The examiner will play each test twice.

Melodic Recall

Tempo: 85bpm

The examiner will play a two bar melody with a drum backing using the D minor pentatonic scale. The first note of the melody will be the root note and the first interval will be ascending. The candidate must then play the melody back on their instrument. The test will be played twice.

Each time the test is played it is preceded by four clicks. There will be a short gap for practise. Next, candidates will hear a vocal count-in, after which they must play the melody to the drum backing.

Rhythmic Recall

The examiner will play a two bar rhythm played to a drum backing on the high A string. The candidate will hear the test twice, then will be asked to play the rhythm back. The candidate will then be asked to identify the rhythm from two printed examples shown.

Each time the test is played it is preceded by four clicks. There will be a short gap for practise. Next, the candidate will hear a vocal count-in, after which they must play the rhythm to the drum backing.

General Musicianship Questions

Candidates will be asked five questions. Four of these questions will be about general music knowledge relating to a performance piece of the candidate’s choosing, and the fifth question asked will be about the candidate’s instrument.

Music Knowledge

The examiner will ask the candidate four music knowledge questions based on a piece performed in the exam. Candidates will nominate the piece of music about which the questions will be asked.

In Grade 3 candidates will be asked to identify:

• The pitch name of notes
• The meaning of the time signature marking
• Whole, half, dotted half, quarter, dotted quarter, eighth and 16th note and rest values
• The construction of any chord found within the piece from the following types: Major,  minor,  sus4,  dominant7,  minor7
• The meaning of any dynamic or articulation markings shown on the score

Instrument Knowledge

The examiner will also ask candidates one question regarding their instrument.

In Grade 3 candidates will be asked to identify one of the following parts of the ukulele:

• Identify three of the following parts of the ukulele: neck, fretboard, body, tuning-pegs, nut, soundhole, or bridge
• Identify names of all open strings

Performance Pieces

The pieces in the grade book can be used for both the Grade Exam and Performance Certificate. At Grade 4 they are typically in the region of two to two and a half minutes in duration. The expectation and length of pieces are designed so candidates can demonstrate the required assessment criteria.

Featured Repertoire:

• Use Me – Bill Withers
• Let Her Go – Passenger
• Havana – Camila Cabello
• Under the Bridge – Red Hot Chili Peppers
• Ghost Town – The Specials
• Me & Julio Down by the Schoolyard – Paul Simon

Technical Exercises

At Grade 4 there are three groups of technical work: Scales, Arpeggios and Chords.

All exercises need to be played in straight feel, in the keys, octaves and tempos shown. Candidates may use their book during the exam for all groups.

GROUP A – Scales

Tempo = 80bpm
Rhythms: Eighth notes
Range: As shown in the grade book

The following scales need to be prepared from the root notes Eb, E and F:

• Major
• Natural minor
• Harmonic minor

The following scales need to be prepared from the root notes shown only, with the given fingering:

• C# minor pentatonic across two positions
• E major pentatonic across two positions
• D blues scale on strings 3 & 4
• G major | linear pattern on one string
• C natural minor | linear pattern on one string

GROUP B – Arpeggios

Tempo = 80bpm
Rhythms: Eighth notes
Range: As shown in the grade book

The following arpeggios need to be prepared from the root notes Eb, E and F:

• Major
• Minor
• Dominant 7
• Minor 7

The following arpeggios need to be performed in the keys shown only, with the given fingering:

• Eb dominant 7 arpeggio on four strings
• C minor 7 arpeggio on four strings

GROUP C – Chord Voicings

The tempo for this group is q = 80 bpm.

1. Harmonised scale

Barre chord shapes in the key of Eb, E or F major, to be played in sequence to continuous click.
The chord types (in sequence) are I, IIm, IIIm, IV, V, VIm, VII dim, I.
Tempo = 80.

Please note, candidates can choose between exercise 2 or exercise 3 below:

Either:

2. Muted chords and 16th note strumming

To be played to continuous click. Note candidates must play with a swung 16th note groove.

Or:

3. TripleStrokes

To be played to continuous click.

Supporting Tests

Sight Reading or Improvisation & Interpretation

In this section, candidates can choose between a Sight Reading test or an Improvisation & Interpretation test. The examiner will ask which the candidate has chosen before then showing the test. Once the candidate has chosen, they cannot change their mind.

Sight Reading

• Duration: 8 bars
• Rhythms: Quarter notes and quarter-note rests, eighth notes and eighth-note rests, ties
• Key: E major or F minor
• Tempo = 80-90bpm

Candidates will have 90 seconds to practise after which the examiner will play the backing track twice. The first time is to practise and the second time is to perform the final version for the exam. During the practice time, candidates will be given the option of a metronome click throughout or a one bar count-in at the beginning.

The backing track is continuous so once the first playthrough has finished the count-in of the second playing will start immediately.

Improvisation & Interpretation

• Duration: 8 bars
• Key: E major or F minor
• Improvisation & interpretation requirement: Single-note melodies only
• Tempo = 80–90bpm

Candidates will have 90 seconds to practise after which the examiner will play the backing track twice. The first time is to practise and the second time is to perform the final version for the exam. During the practice time, candidates will be given the option of a metronome click throughout or a one bar count-in at the beginning.

The backing track is continuous so once the first playthrough has finished the count-in of the second playing will start immediately.

Ear Tests

There are two tests: Melodic Recall and Harmonic Recall. The examiner will play each test twice.

Melodic Recall

Tempo: 90bpm

The examiner will play a two bar melody with a drum backing using either the C# minor pentatonic or E major pentatonic scales. The first note of the melody will be the root note and the first interval will be ascending. Candidates will play the melody back on their instrument. The test will be played twice.

Each time the test is played it is preceded by four clicks. There will be a short gap for candidates to practise. Next, there will be a vocal count-in and candidates will then play the melody to the drum backing.

Harmonic Recall

Tempo = 90bpm

Candidates will hear a tonic chord followed by a two bar chord sequence in the key of C major, played to a bass and drum backing. The sequence will be a selection drawn from the I, IV, and V chords and may occur in any combination.

Candidates will be asked to play the chord sequence to the drum backing using the rhythm shown in the grade book. This rhythm will be used in all examples of this test given in the exam. Candidates will then be asked to identify the sequence.

The test will be played twice. Each time the test is played the sequence is: count-in, tonic, count-in, chords. There will be a short gap to practise after the second playing. There will then be a count-in and tonic for the third time followed by a vocal count-in, after which candidates will need to play the chords to the drum backing. Candidates will then need to name the chord sequence.

General Musicianship Questions

Candidates will be asked five questions about a performance piece of their choosing. Four of these questions will be about general music knowledge and the fifth question asked will be about technical knowledge.

Music Knowledge

The examiner will ask the candidate four music knowledge questions based on a piece of performed in the exam. Candidates will nominate the piece of music about which the questions will be asked.

In Grade 4 the examiner can draw on the following subject areas for these questions:

• Names of pitches
• The meaning of the time signature and the key signature markings
• Repeat marks, first and second time bars, D.C., D.S., al Coda and al Fine markings
• Whole, half, quarter, dotted quarter, eighth, dotted eighth, triplet eighth-notes and 16th-note values
• Whole, half, quarter, dotted quarter, eighth, dotted eighth, triplet eighth, 16th-note rests and rest combinations
• The construction of any chord found within the piece from the following types: Major 7, minor 7, dominant 7, diminished, major 6 or minor 6
• The meaning of any dynamic or articulation markings shown on the score

Instrument Knowledge

The examiner will also ask one question regarding a technical consideration of the piece, in relation to:

• Picking hand: Strumming or picking technique for a short phrase (up to one bar) – demonstration is acceptable
• Fretting hand: Fretting position and fingering used to play a short phrase (up to one bar) – demonstration is acceptable

Performance Pieces

The pieces in the grade book can be used for both the Grade Exam and Performance Certificate. At Grade 5 they remain typically in the region of two to two and a half minutes in duration. The expectation and length of pieces are designed so candidates can demonstrate the required assessment criteria.

Featured Repertoire:

• Hallelujah – Jeff Buckley
• Get Lucky – Daft Punk
• Songbird – Eva Cassidy
• Wanted Dead or Alive – Bon Jovi
• Enter Sandman – Metallica
• Pick up the Pieces – Average White Band

Technical Exercises

At Grade 5 there are three groups of technical work: Scales, Arpeggios and Chords.

All exercises need to be played in straight feel, in the keys, octaves and tempos shown. Candidates may use their book during the exam for all groups.

GROUP A – Scales

Tempo = 90bpm
Rhythms: Eighth notes
Range: As shown in the grade book

1. Major scale in three positions (key of Ab or B major)
2. Harmonic minor scale on one string: Candidates must demonstrate a harmonic minor scale with its root note on any of the four open strings (G, C, E or A) as specified by the examiner.
3. C major (Campanella style)
4. G major (Campanella style)

GROUP B – Arpeggios

Tempo = 90bpm
Rhythms: Eighth notes
Range: As shown in the grade book

• Arpeggios formed on chords Imaj7, V7 and VIm7 to be played in a continuous exercise in the key of Ab major
• Arpeggios formed on chords Imaj7, V7 and VIm7 to be played in a continuous exercise in the key of B major
• C# minor 7 arpeggio across four strings

GROUP C – Chords

The tempo for this group = 90 bpm.

1. Harmonised scale in Ab or B

Barre chord shapes in the key of Ab or B major, to be played in sequence to continuous click.
The chord types (in sequence) are I, IIm, IIIm, IV, V, VIm, VII dim, I.
Tempo = 90.

Please note, candidates can choose between exercise 2 or exercise 3 below:

Either:

2. Dominant 7th partial chords and 16th note strumming rhythms
The tempo is 90bpm. To be played to continuous click.

Or:

3. Dominant 7th chords & triple strokes
To be played to continuous click.

Supporting Tests

Sight Reading or Improvisation & Interpretation

In this section, candidates can choose between a Sight Reading test or an Improvisation & Interpretation test. The examiner will ask which the candidate has chosen before then showing the test. Once the candidate has chosen, they cannot change their mind.

Sight Reading

• Duration: 8 bars
• Rhythms: Quarter notes and quarter-note rests, eighth notes and eighth-note rests, dotted eighth notes and eighth-note rests, 16th notes and ties
• Key: Ab major or B major
• Tempo = 80bpm

Improvisation & Interpretation

• Duration: 8 bars
• Key: Ab major or B major
• Improvisation & interpretation requirement: Single-note melodies only
• Tempo = 80–90bpm

Candidates will have 90 seconds to practise after which the examiner will play the backing track twice. The first time is to practise and the second time is to perform the final version for the exam. During the practice time, candidates will be given the option of a metronome click throughout or a one bar count-in at the beginning.

The backing track is continuous so once the first playthrough has finished the count-in of the second playing will start immediately.

Ear Tests

There are two tests: Melodic Recall and Harmonic Recall. The examiner will play each test twice.

Melodic Recall

Tempo = 80bpm

TheexaminerwillplayatwobarmelodywithadrumbackingusingtheA majorscale.Thefirstnoteofthemelody will be the root note. Candidates will play the melody back on their instrument. The test will be played twice.

Each time the test is played it is preceded by four clicks. There will be a short gap for candidates to practise. Next there will be a vocal count-in and candidates will need to play the melody to the drum backing.

Harmonic Recall

Tempo = 90bpm

The examiner will play a tonic chord followed by a four bar chord sequence in the key of G major played to a drum backing. The sequence will be a selection drawn from the I, IV, V and VIm chords and may occur in any combination.

Candidates will be asked to play the chord sequence to the drum backing in the rhythm shown in the example in the grade book. This rhythm will be used in all examples of this test given in the exam. Candidates will then be asked to identify the sequence.

The test will be played twice. Each time the test is played the sequence is: count-in, tonic, count-in, chords. There will be a short gap to practise after the second playing. Candidates will hear the count-in and tonic for the third time followed by a vocal count-in, and will then need to play the chords to the drum backing. Candidates will then need to name the chord sequence, including chord types (i.e. major or minor).

General Musicianship Questions

Candidates will be asked five questions about a performance piece of their choosing. Four of these questions will be about general music knowledge and the fifth question asked will be about technical knowledge.

Music Knowledge

The examiner will ask candidates four music knowledge questions based on a piece of music they have played in the exam. Candidates will nominate the piece of music about which the questions will be asked.

In Grade 5 the examiner can draw on the following subject areas for these questions:

• Names of pitches
• The meaning of the time signature and the key signature markings
• Repeat marks, first and second time bars, D.C., D.S., al Coda and al Fine markings
• Whole, half, quarter, dotted quarter, eighth, dotted eighth, triplet eighth-notes and 16th-note values & rests
• The construction of any chord found within the piece from the following types: Major 7, minor 7, dominant 7; sus2 or sus4 chords; ‘3rd omitted’ chords, e.g. ‘B7 (no 3rd)’;
• The meaning of a ‘slash’ chord, e.g. ‘C/E’
• The meaning of any dynamic or articulation markings shown on the score

Technical Knowledge

The examiner will also ask one question regarding a technical consideration of the piece, in relation to:

• Picking hand: Strumming or picking technique for a short phrase (up to one bar) – demonstration is acceptable
• Fretting hand: Fretting position and fingering used to play a short phrase (up to one bar) – demonstration is acceptable

The examiner will choose the section of music and will ask candidates to give a brief explanation as to why the technique was appropriate for the chosen section.

Performance Pieces

The pieces in the grade book can be used for both the Grade Exam and Performance Certificate. At Grade 6 they are longer, typically in the region of two and a half to three minutes in duration. The expectation and length of pieces are designed so candidates can demonstrate the required assessment criteria.

Featured Repertoire:

• Eleanor Rigby – The Beatles
• Fly Me To The Moon – Bart Howard
• No One Knows – Queens of the Stone Age
• Feeling Good – Nina Simone
• A Thousand Years – Christina Perri
• He’s a Pirate – Pirates of the Caribbean

Technical Exercises

At Grade 6 there are four groups of technical work: Scales, Arpeggios, Chords, and Stylistic Studies.

All exercises need to be played in straight feel, in the keys, octaves and tempos shown.
Candidates may use their book during the exam for all groups.

GROUP A – Scales

Tempo = 100bpm
Rhythms: Eighth notes
Range: As shown in the grade book

Each of the following scale types needs to be prepared from the root notes E, F, F# and G:

• Dorian Mode
• Mixolydian Mode
• Melodic Minor
• Chromatic Scale

Each of the following scales needs to be prepared from the root notes shown only:

• G major in 3rds | partial scale on strings 1 and 4
• G natural minor in 3rds | partial scale on strings 1 and 4
• D natural minor (campanella style)
• D harmonic minor (campanella style)
• C# minor pentatonic exercise | continuous exercise in four positions as shown in the grade book.

GROUP B – Arpeggios

Tempo = 100bpm
Rhythms: Eighth notes
Range: As shown in the grade book

Each of the following arpeggio types needs to be prepared from the root notes E, F, F# and G:

• Minor 7b5 arpeggio
• Diminished 7 arpeggio

Each of the following arpeggio types needs to be prepared from the root note shown only:

• E major 7 | compound 10th arpeggio
• E dominant 7 | compound 10th arpeggio
• E augmented | compound 10th arpeggio
• E minor 6 | arpeggio on four strings
• G minor 7 | arpeggio on four strings

GROUP C – Chords

Each of the following chord types needs to be prepared from the root notes E, F, F# and G.

When announced by the examiner, candidates must demonstrate both positions (inversions) in the key and chord type(s) stated.

• Minor 7b5 | in two positions
• Diminished 7 | in two positions
• Augmented |in two positions

The following exercise needs to be played in the key stated only, using the fingering/string combinations as shown in the grade book, to continuous click. The tempo is =100 bpm.

• F major harmonised scale | ascending only

GROUP D – Stylistic Studies

Candidates will prepare a stylistic study from the grade book, drawn from one group of styles from the list below and perform it to the backing track. The choice of style will determine the style of the Quick Study Piece, for example, if candidates choose a rock & pop Stylistic Study then the examiner will give a rock & pop Quick Study Piece in that section of the exam.

Styles:

• Rock and Pop
• Soul, Jazz and Blues
• Ukulele Specialist

Supporting Tests

Quick Study Piece

At this grade candidates will be asked to prepare and play a short Quick Study Piece (QSP). The QSP chosen will be a previously unseen example, but similar to those provided as exemplar material in the grade book.

Candidates will be shown the test and played the track with the notated parts played. Any bars that require improvisation will not be demonstrated. Candidates will then have three minutes to study the test with the option of a click track. The backing track will be played twice more. Candidates 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 style of the QSP is determined by the stylistic study selected by the candidate in the technical exercise section. The QSP is in the form of a lead sheet and candidates must create their own interpretation of the music in the parts where instructed to do so.

Styles:

• Rock & Pop
• Blues & Country
• Ukulele Specialist

Ear Tests

There are two tests: Melodic Recall and Harmonic Recall. The examiner will play each test twice.

Melodic Recall

Tempo = 90bpm

The examiner will play a two bar melody with a bass and drum backing using the D natural minor scale. The first note of the melody will be either the root note or the fifth and the first interval will be either ascending or descending. Candidates will play the melody back on their instrument. The test will be played twice.

Each time the test is played it is preceded by four clicks. There will be a short gap for candidates to practise. Next there will be a vocal count-in and candidates will need to play the melody to the drum backing.

Harmonic Recall

Tempo = 90bpm

The examiner will play a tonic chord followed by a four bar chord sequence in the key of F major played to a bass and drum backing. The sequence will be a selection drawn from the following chords: I, IIm, IIIm, IV, V and VIm chords and will incorporate a dominant 7 (V7) chord. The chords may occur in any combination.

Candidates will be asked to play the chord sequence to the drum backing in the rhythm shown in the example in the grade book. This rhythm will be used in all examples of this test given in the exam. Candidates will then be asked to identify the sequence.

The test will be played twice. Each time the test is played the sequence is: count-in, tonic, count-in, chords. There will be a short gap to practise after the second playing. Candidates will hear the count-in and tonic for the third time followed by a vocal count-in, and will then need to play the chords to the drum backing. Candidates will then need to name the chord sequence, including chord types (i.e. major or minor).

General Musicianship Questions

Candidates will be asked five questions about a performance piece of their choosing. Four of these questions will be about general music knowledge and the fifth question asked will be about technical knowledge.

Music Knowledge

The examiner will ask candidates four music knowledge questions based on a piece of music they have played in the exam. Candidates will nominate the piece of music about which the questions will be asked.

In Grade 6 the examiner can draw on the following subject areas for these questions:

• The names of pitches
• Any expressive musical marking found in the piece such as palm muting, accents, staccato, legato, vibrato
• Any dynamic marking found in the piece
• One type of scale that can be used appropriately in the solo section of the chosen piece and its relation to: the underlying harmony of the piece (if relevant) or how a section was developed (if relevant) or a stylistic feature of the piece characteristic of its genre

Technical Knowledge

The examiner will also ask candidates one question regarding a technical consideration of the piece, in relation to:

• Picking hand: Strumming or picking technique for a short phrase (up to one bar) – demonstration is acceptable
• Fretting hand: Fretting position and fingering used to play a short phrase (up to one bar) – demonstration is acceptable

The examiner will choose the section of music and will ask candidates to give a brief explanation as to why the technique was appropriate for the chosen section.

Performance Pieces

The pieces in the grade book can be used for both the Grade Exam and Performance Certificate. At Grade 7 they are longer, typically up to three minutes in duration. The expectation and length of pieces are designed so candidates can demonstrate the required assessment criteria.

Featured Repertoire:

• If I Ain’t Got You – Alicia Keys
• Satin Doll – Lyle Ritz
• Atlantis – Taimane Gardner
• What is Hip? – Tower of Power
• Toxicity – System of a Down
• Desafinado – Antônio Carlos Jobim

Technical Exercises

At Grade 7 there are four groups of technical work: Scales, Arpeggios, Chords, and Stylistic Studies. All exercises need to be played in straight feel, in the keys, octaves and tempos shown.

Candidates may use their book during the exam for all groups.

GROUP A – Scales

Tempo = 100bpm
Rhythms: Eighth notes
Range: As shown in the grade book

Each of the following scale types needs to be prepared from the root notes E, F, F# and G:

• Lydian mode
• Phrygian mode
• Phrygian dominant mode

Each of the following scales needs to be prepared in the stated key or mode only:

• Bb major in 6ths | partial scale on strings 1 and 3
• Bb natural minor in 6ths | partial scale on strings 1 and 3
• E dorian mode (campanella style)
• E natural minor (campanella style)

Each of the following scales needs to be prepared with the root note on any of the four open strings (G, C, E or A) as specified by the examiner:

• Melodic minor scale on one string
• Chromatic scale on one string

GROUP B – Arpeggios

Tempo = 100bpm
Rhythms: Eighth notes
Range: As shown in the grade book

Each of the following arpeggio types needs to be prepared from the root notes E, F, F# and G:

• Major 9 arpeggio
• Minor 9 arpeggio

Each of the following arpeggio types needs to be prepared from the root note shown only:

• D diminished 7 arpeggio | in two positions
• D minor 7b5 arpeggio | in two positions
• C dominant 7 add 4 arpeggio | across four strings
• E dominant 7 add 4 | across four strings

GROUP C – Chords

Each of the following chord types needs to be prepared from the root notes E, F, F# and G.

When announced by the examiner, candidates must demonstrate both positions (inversions) in the key and chord type(s) stated:

• Dominant 9 | in two positions
• Minor 9 | in two positions
• Major 9 |in two positions

The following exercise needs to be played in the key stated only, to continuous click. Tempo = 100 bpm.

• 7th chords in F major | two voicings for each chord type (Imaj7, VIm7, IIm7. VIIm7b5, Imaj7)

GROUP D – Stylistic Studies

Candidates will prepare a stylistic study from the grade book, drawn from one group of styles from the list below and perform it to the backing track. The choice of style will determine the style of the Quick Study Piece, for example, if candidates choose a rock & pop Stylistic Study then the examiner will give a rock & pop Quick Study Piece in that section of the exam.

Styles:

• • Rock and Pop
  • Soul, Jazz and Blues
  • Ukulele Specialist

Supporting Tests

Quick Study Piece

At this grade candidates will be asked to prepare and play a short Quick Study Piece (QSP). The QSP chosen will be a previously unseen example, but similar to those provided as exemplar material in the grade book.

Candidates will be shown the test and played the track with the notated parts played. Any bars that require improvisation will not be demonstrated. Candidates will then have three minutes to study the test with the option of a click track. The backing track will be played twice more. Candidates 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 style of the QSP is determined by the Stylistic Study selected by the candidate in the technical exercise section. The QSP is in the form of a lead sheet and candidates must create their own interpretation of the music in the parts where instructed to do so.

Styles:

• Rock & Pop
• Blues & Country
• Ukulele Specialist

Ear Tests

There are two tests: Melodic Recall and Harmonic Recall. The examiner will play each test twice.

Melodic Recall

Tempo = 90bpm

The examiner will play a two bar melody with a bass and drum backing using the F major or F natural minor scale. The first note of the melody will be either the root note or the fifth and the first interval will be either ascending or descending. Candidates will play the melody back on their instrument. The test will be played twice.

Each time the test is played it is preceded by four clicks. There will be a short gap for candidates to practise. Next there will be a vocal count-in and candidates will need to play the melody to the drum backing.

Harmonic Recall

Tempo = 90bpm

The examiner will play a tonic chord followed by a four bar chord sequence in the key of F major played to a bass and drum backing. The sequence will be a selection drawn from the following chords: I, IIm, IIIm, IV, V and VIm. The chords may occur in any combination. The IIm, IIIm and VIm chords can be either minor or minor 7th chords.

Candidates will be asked to play the chord sequence to the drum backing in the rhythm shown in the example in the grade book. This rhythm will be used in all examples of this test given in the exam. Candidates will then be asked to identify the sequence.

The test will be played twice. Each time the test is played the sequence is: count-in, tonic, count-in, chords. There will be a short gap to practise after the second playing. Candidates will hear the count-in and tonic for the third time followed by a vocal count-in, and will then need to play the chords to the drum backing. Candidates will then need to name the chord sequence, including the chord type and any extensions.

General Musicianship Questions

Candidates will be asked five questions about a performance piece of their choosing. Four of these questions will be about general music knowledge and the fifth question asked will be about technical knowledge.

Music Knowledge

The examiner will ask candidates four music knowledge questions based on a piece of music they have played in the exam. Candidates will nominate the piece of music about which the questions will be asked.

In Grade 7 the examiner can draw on the following subject areas for these questions:

The names of pitches
Any expressive musical marking found in the piece such as palm muting, accents, staccato, legato, vibrato
Any dynamic marking found in the piece
One type of scale that can be used appropriately in the solo section of the chosen piece and its relation to the underlying harmony of the piece (if relevant) or how a section of the piece was developed (if relevant) or a stylistic feature of the piece characteristic of its genre

Technical Knowledge

The examiner will also ask candidates one question regarding a technical consideration of the piece, in relation to:

• Picking hand: Strumming or picking technique for a short phrase (up to one bar) – demonstration is acceptable
• Fretting hand: Fretting position and fingering used to play a short phrase (up to one bar) – demonstration is acceptable

The examiner will choose the section of music and will ask candidates to give a brief explanation as to why the technique was appropriate for the chosen section.

Performance Pieces

The pieces in the grade book can be used for both the Grade Exam and Performance Certificate. At Grade 8 they are longer, typically in the region of three to three and a half minutes in duration. The expectation and length of pieces are designed so candidates can demonstrate the required assessment criteria.

Featured Repertoire:

• Bohemian Rhapsody – Jake Shimabukuro
• Fire – Taimane Gardner
• Cinema Paradiso (Love Theme) – Pat Metheny
• Holier Than Thou – Metallica
• Rather Be – Clean Bandit
• Spain – Chick Corea

Technical Exercises

At Grade 8 there are four groups of technical work: Scales, Arpeggios, Chords, and Stylistic Studies. All exercises need to be played in straight feel, in the keys, octaves and tempos shown.

Candidates may use their book during the exam for all groups.

GROUP A – Scales

Tempo = 100bpm
Rhythms: Eighth notes
Range: As shown in the grade book

Each of the following scale types needs to be prepared from the root notes E, F, F# and G:

• Whole tone
• Diminished
• Altered

Each of the following scales needs to be prepared from the root notes shown only:

• Chromatic scale on one string | starting on any open string (G, C, E or A)
• E phrygian mode | campanella style
• C major | in sixths on strings 3 & 4

In addition, candidates must prepare the following from previous grades:

1. Linear scales with root notes on any of the four open strings (G, C, E or A) as specified by the examiner:

• Major
• Natural minor
• Melodic minor
• Harmonic minor

2. Any of the following scales or modes from previous grades played campanella style:

• D natural minor
• D harmonic minor
• E natural minor
• E dorian mode
• C major
• G major

Tempo: q =100
One octave
Eighth notes, finishing on a quarter note.
Ascending and descending

GROUP B – Arpeggios

Tempo = 100bpm
Rhythms: Eighth notes
Range: As shown in the grade book

Each of the following arpeggio types needs to be prepared from the root notes E, F, F# and G:

• Dominant 7#5 arpeggio
• Dominant 7b5 arpeggio
• Dominant 7b9 arpeggio
• Minor/major 9 arpeggio

In addition, candidates must prepare the following from previous grades:

Tempo = 100
One octave
Eighth notes, finishing on a quarter note
Ascending and descending

• E minor 6 arpeggio on four strings
• G minor 7 arpeggio on four strings

GROUP C – Chords

Altered chords. C#andidates must perform both voicings to continuous click:

• F dominant 7#5 | two voicings
• F dominant 7b5 | two voicings

Altered chords. Candidates must perform the voicing shown in the grade book when directed by the examiner:

• C dominant 7#9 | one voicing only, as shown in grade book
• C dominant 7b9 | one voicing only, as shown in grade book

GROUP D – Stylistic Studies

Candidates will prepare a stylistic study from the grade book, drawn from one group of styles from the list below and perform it to the backing track. The choice of style will determine the style of the Quick Study Piece, for example, if candidates choose a rock & pop Stylistic Study then the examiner will give a rock & pop Quick Study Piece in that section of the exam.

Styles:

• • Rock and Pop
  • Soul, Jazz and Blues
  • Ukulele Specialist

Supporting Tests

Quick Study Piece

At this grade candidates will be asked to prepare and play a short Quick Study Piece (QSP). The QSP chosen will be a previously unseen example, but similar to those provided as exemplar material in the grade book.

Candidates will be shown the test and played the track with the notated parts played. Any bars that require improvisation will not be demonstrated. Candidates will then have three minutes to study the test with the option of a click track. The backing track will be played twice more. Candidates 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 style of the QSP is determined by the Stylistic Study selected by the candidate in the technical exercise section. The QSP is in the form of a lead sheet and candidates must create their own interpretation of the music in the parts where instructed to do so.

Styles:

• Rock & Pop
• Blues & Country
• Ukulele Specialist

Ear Tests

There are two tests: Melodic Recall and Harmonic Recall. The examiner will play each test twice.

Melodic Recall

Tempo = 90bpm

The examiner will play a two bar melody with a bass and drum backing using the F major, F harmonic minor or F natural minor scale. The first note of the melody will be either the root note or the fifth and the first interval will be either ascending or descending. Candidates will play the melody back on their instrument. The test will be played twice.

Each time the test is played it is preceded by four clicks. There will be a short gap for candidates to practise. Next there will be a vocal count-in and candidates will need to play the melody to the drum backing.

Harmonic Recall

Tempo = 90bpm

The examiner will play a tonic chord followed by a four bar chord sequence in the key of F major played to a bass and drum backing. The sequence will be a selection drawn from the following chords: I, IIm, IIIm, IV, V and VIm. The chords may occur in any combination. The I and IV chords can be either major or major 7 chords.

Candidates will be asked to play the chord sequence to the drum backing in the rhythm shown in the example in the grade book. This rhythm will be used in all examples of this test given in the exam. Candidates will then be asked to identify the sequence.

The test will be played twice. Each time the test is played the sequence is: count-in, tonic, count-in, chords. There will be a short gap to practise after the second playing. Candidates will hear the count-in and tonic for the third time followed by a vocal count-in, and will then need to play the chords to the drum backing. Candidates will then need to name the chord sequence, including the chord type and any chord extensions.

General Musicianship Questions

Candidates will be asked five questions about a performance piece of their choosing. Four of these questions will be about general music knowledge and the fifth question asked will be about technical knowledge.

Music Knowledge

The examiner will ask candidates four music knowledge questions based on a piece of music they have played in the exam. Candidates will nominate the piece of music about which the questions will be asked.

In Grade 8 the examiner can draw on the following subject areas for these questions:

• The names of pitches
• Any expressive musical marking found in the piece such as palm muting, accents, staccato, legato, vibrato
• Any dynamic marking found in the piece
• One type of scale that can be used appropriately in the solo section of the chosen piece and its relation to the underlying harmony of the piece (if relevant) or how a section of the piece was developed (if relevant) or a stylistic feature of the piece characteristic of its genre

Technical Knowledge

The examiner will also ask candidates one question regarding a technical consideration of the piece, in relation to:

• Picking hand: Strumming or picking technique for a short phrase (up to one bar) – demonstration is acceptable
• Fretting hand: Fretting position and fingering used to play a short phrase (up to one bar) – demonstration is acceptable

The examiner will choose the section of music and will ask candidates to give a brief explanation as to why the technique was appropriate for the chosen section.