Performance Pieces

Candidates must prepare a total of three pieces for a Grade Exam and five pieces for a Performance Certificate.

Featured Repertoire:

• Shakira – Try Everything
• John Lennon – Imagine
• Camila Cabello – Havana
• One Direction – That’s What Makes You Beautiful
• Little Mix – Change Your Life
• Bob Marley – Three Little Birds
• Post Malone – Only Wanna Be with You (Pokémon 25 version)
• The Crystals – Da Doo Ron Ron (When He Walked Me Home)
• Bill Withers – Lean on Me
• Junior Senior – Move Your Feet

Technical Exercises

Please note: The following information relates to the new 2021 Vocals syllabus launched in September 2021. For exam information relating to the 2014 – 2021 Vocals syllabus, please download the syllabus specification at the base of this page!

There are three groups of technical exercises at this grade: Scales, Arpeggios and Rhythmic Studies. The scale and arpeggio are to be performed to a click track, the rhythmic study to a backing track. The exercises may be performed using any vocal sound except humming or whistling.
GROUP A – Scales
Candidates are to perform the following scale, as written in the grade book:

Scale: Major scale
Starting note: Candidate’s choice
Range: Up to the 5th
Tempo: 80bpm
Accompaniment: Click track

The examiner will ask the candidate which starting note they have chosen (the examiner can play starting notes in the range A3–G#4, but candidates may sing in any octave). Candidates will hear the starting note, followed by a 1-bar count in, before performing the test to the metronome click.

GROUP B – Arpeggios
Candidates are to perform the following arpeggio, as written in the grade book:

Arpeggio: Major arpeggio
Starting note: Candidate’s choice
Range: Up to the 5th
Tempo: 80bpm
Accompaniment: Click track

The examiner will ask the candidate which starting note they have chosen (the examiner can play starting notes in the range A3–G#4, but candidates may sing in any octave). Candidates will hear the starting note, followed by a 1-bar count in, before performing the test to the metronome click.

Group C: Rhythmic Studies
Candidates are to perform the rhythmic study from the grade book. Candidates will hear a 4-beat count in, before performing the test to the backing track. The tempo is 80bpm.

Supporting Tests

Please note: The following information relates to the new 2021 Vocals syllabus launched in September 2021. For exam information relating to the 2014 – 2021 Vocals syllabus, please download the syllabus specification at the base of this page!

Before seeing the tests, the examiner will ask whether the candidate wishes to perform a piece of sight reading or take a test of improvisation and interpretation. Once the candidate has decided, they cannot change their mind.

Sight Reading

Requirements
Candidates will be given a short previously unseen rhythm to perform, using any vocal sound except humming or whistling. The rhythm will be 4 bars long, all on the note C4. Candidates may sing in any octave. The tempo will be 70bpm.

Process
Candidates will be given 90 seconds to practise, after which they will perform the test. Before the practice time begins, candidates will be given the choice of a metronome click throughout or having a 4-beat count in at the beginning. Whichever option candidates choose, the practice time will start with the examiner playing the root note. Candidates will receive the same choice when performing the test.

Improvisation & Interpretation

Requirements
Candidates will be given a previously unseen chord progression, over which they will improvise a melody using any vocal sound except humming or whistling. The chord progression will be 4 bars long, based on chords I, IV and V, starting and finishing on the root chord (C). The tempo will be 70bpm.

Process
Candidates will hear the backing track three times. Candidates can rehearse during the first and second playthroughs, before performing the improvisation over the third playthrough. Only their improvisation over the final playthrough will be assessed. Each playthrough will begin with the root note and a 4-beat count in. The backing track is continuous throughout, so once the first playthrough has finished, the root note and count in of the second and third playthroughs will start immediately.

Ear Tests

Candidates will be given both of the following ear tests, examples of which are included in the grade book:

• Test 1: Melodic Recall
• Test 2: Rhythmic Recall

Test 1: Melodic Recall

• • Requirements: The examiner will play two notes. Candidates will be asked to identify whether the second note is higher or lower than the first. The notes will be in the key of A minor, starting on the root note. The notes will both be whole notes at 80bpm.

• • Process: The test will be played twice, each time preceded by a 4-beat vocal count in. After the second playthrough candidates will give their answer. Candidates should use the words ‘higher’ or ‘lower’ in their answer.

Test 2: Rhythmic Recall

There are two parts to this test: Rhythm Recall and Identification.

Part 1: Rhythm Recall

• Requirements: The examiner will play a 2-bar rhythm. Candidates will be asked to sing the rhythm back, on any pitch, using ‘da’ or ‘ba’ vocal sounds. The rhythm will be played on a single note, to a drum backing based on half notes, quarter notes and eighth notes. The tempo will be 80bpm.

• Process: The test will be played twice, each time preceded by a 4-beat count in. There will be a short gap after each playthrough. After the gap following the second playthrough candidates will be given a vocal count in, after which they should sing the rhythm back. The length of time available after the second playthrough is pre-recorded on the audio track so the vocal count in may begin while the candidate is still practising.

Part 2: Identification

• Requirements: Candidates will be asked to identify the rhythm they heard in Part 1.

• Process: Candidates will be shown two notated rhythms. They will be asked to identify one which matches the rhythm they heard in Part 1.

General Musicianship Questions

Candidates will be asked five questions. Four of these will be music knowledge questions, based on any one of the pieces performed in the exam, the fifth will be about knowledge of the candidate’s own voice. Candidates can use brief demonstrations to support their verbal explanations.

Part 1: General Music Knowledge
There will be four music knowledge questions in relation to one of the pieces performed in the exam. Candidates will be asked which piece they would like to be asked about. If the candidate’s copy of the chosen piece contains extensive handwritten notes the examiner may either use their own version of the score as the basis for the questions or they may request that candidates select a different piece.

Candidates may be asked to identify:

• The treble clef

• The time signature

• A rest (of any value)

• The rhythmic value of one note, from the following:
  – Whole note
• – Half note
• – Quarter note
• Part 2: Knowledge of the Voice
  There will be one question about the candidate’s knowledge of their voice, chosen by the examiner from the list below. Candidates may be asked:
• Where is your jaw?
• Where are your lungs?
• Why is it important to warm up before singing?

Performance Pieces

Candidates must prepare a total of three pieces for a Grade Exam and five pieces for a Performance Certificate.

The ten songs at Grade 1 are:

Featured Repertoire:

• Queen – We Will Rock You
• Courtney Bowman – It Means Beautiful (from Everybody’s Talking About Jamie)
• Ziv Zaifman, Hugh Jackman and Michelle Williams – A Million Dreams (from The Greatest Showman)
• Owl City – Fireflies
• Ben E King – Stand by Me
• Billie Eilish – I Love You
• Rihanna – Please Don’t Stop the Music
• Auli’i Cravalho – How Far I’ll Go (from Moana)
• Lily Allen – Somewhere Only We Know
• Kelvin Jones – Friends

Technical Exercises

Please note: The following information relates to the new 2021 Vocals syllabus launched in September 2021. For exam information relating to the 2014 – 2021 Vocals syllabus, please download the syllabus specification at the base of this page!

There are four groups of technical exercises at this grade: Scales, Arpeggios, Intervals and Technical Studies. The scale, arpeggio and interval are to be performed to a click track, the technical study to a backing track. The exercises may be performed using any vocal sound except humming or whistling.

GROUP A – Scales

Candidates are to perform the following scale, as written in the grade book:

Scale: Major scale
Starting note: Candidate’s choice
Range: 1 octave
Tempo: 80bpm
Accompaniment: Click track

The examiner will ask the candidate which starting note they have chosen (the examiner can play starting notes in the range A3–G#4, but candidates may sing in any octave). Candidates will hear the starting note, followed by a 1-bar count in, before performing the test to the metronome click.

Group B: Arpeggios

Candidates are to prepare both of the following arpeggios, as written in the grade book. The examiner will ask for one of them to be performed in the exam:

Major Arpeggio | Pattern 1
Starting note: Candidate’s choice
Range: Up to the 5th
Tempo: 80bpm
Accompaniment: Click track

Major Arpeggio | Pattern 2
Starting note: Candidate’s choice
Range: 1 octave
Tempo: 80bpm
Accompaniment: Click track

The examiner will ask the candidate which starting note they have chosen (the examiner can play starting notes in the range A3–G#4, but candidates may sing in any octave). Candidates will hear the starting note, followed by a 1-bar count in, before performing the test to the metronome click.

Group C – Intervals

Candidates are to prepare both of the following intervals, as written in the grade book. The examiner will ask for one of them to be performed in the exam:

Major 2nd, ascending
Starting note: Candidate’s choice
Tempo: 90bpm
Accompaniment: Click track

Major 3rd, ascending
Starting note: Candidate’s choice
Tempo: 90bpm
Accompaniment: Click track

The examiner will ask the candidate which starting note they have chosen (the examiner can play starting notes in the range A3–G#4, but candidates may sing in any octave). Candidates will hear the starting note, followed by a 1-bar count in, before performing the test to the metronome click.

Group C – Technical Studies

Candidates are to prepare both the rhythmic study and the melodic study from the grade book. The examiner will ask for one of them to be performed in the exam.

Rhythmic study
If the examiner requests the rhythmic study, candidates will hear a 4-beat count in, before performing the test to the backing track. The tempo is 110bpm.

Melodic study
If the examiner requests the melodic study, they will ask candidates which Option they are going to perform (Option 1: C major or Option 2: F major). Candidates will hear the starting note, followed by a 4-beat count in, before performing the test to the backing track. The tempo is 90bpm.

Supporting Tests

Please note: The following information relates to the new 2021 Vocals syllabus launched in September 2021. For exam information relating to the 2014 – 2021 Vocals syllabus, please download the syllabus specification at the base of this page!

Before seeing the tests, the examiner will ask whether the candidate wishes to perform a piece of sight reading or take a test of improvisation and interpretation. Once the candidate has decided, they cannot change their mind.

Sight Reading

Requirements: Candidates will be given a short previously unseen rhythm to perform, using any vocal sound except humming or whistling. The rhythm will be 4 bars long, in the key of C major, covering a range of up to a major 3rd. Candidates may sing in any octave. The tempo will be 70bpm.

Process: Candidates will be given 90 seconds to practise, after which they will perform the test. Before the practice time begins, candidates will be given the choice of a metronome click throughout or having a 4-beat count in at the beginning. Whichever option candidates choose, the practice time will start with the examiner playing the root note. Candidates will receive the same choice when performing the test

Improvisation & Interpretation

Requirements: Candidates will be given a previously unseen chord progression, over which they will improvise a melody using any vocal sound except humming or whistling. The chord progression will be 4 bars long, based on chords I, IV and V, starting and finishing on the root chord (C). The tempo will be 75bpm.

Process: Candidates will hear the backing track three times. Candidates can rehearse during the first and second playthroughs, before performing the improvisation over the third playthrough. Only their improvisation over the final playthrough will be assessed. Each playthrough will begin with the root note and a 4-beat count in. The backing track is continuous throughout, so once the first playthrough has finished, the root note and count in of the second and third playthroughs will start immediately.

Ear Tests

Candidates will be given both of the following ear tests, examples of which are included in the grade book:

• Test 1: Melodic Recall
• Test 2: Rhythmic Recall

Test 1: Melodic Recall

• Requirements: The examiner will play three notes. Candidates will be asked to identify whether the last two notes are higher or lower in sequence (i.e. whether the second note is higher or lower than the first, and whether the third note is higher or lower than the second). The notes will be in the key of A minor, starting on the root note. The rhythmic values of the notes may include whole notes and half notes at 85bpm.
• Process: The test will be played twice, each time preceded by a 4-beat vocal count in. After the second playthrough candidates will give their answer. Candidates should use the words ‘higher’, ‘lower’, ‘up’ or ‘down’ in their answer.

Test 2: Rhythmic Recall

There are two parts to this test: Rhythm Recall and Identification.

Part 1: Rhythm Recall

• Requirements: The examiner will play a 2-bar rhythm. Candidates will be asked to sing the rhythm back, on any pitch, using ‘da’ or ‘ba’ vocal sounds. The rhythm will be played on a single note, to a drum backing. The tempo will be 90bpm.
• Process: The test will be played twice, each time preceded by a 4-beat count in. There will be a short gap after each playthrough. After the gap following the second playthrough candidates will be given a vocal count in, after which they should sing the rhythm back. The length of time available after the second playthrough is pre-recorded on the audio track so the vocal count in may begin while the candidate is still practising.

Part 2: Identification

• Requirements: Candidates will be asked to identify the rhythm they heard in Part 1.
• Process: Candidates will be shown two notated rhythms. They will be asked to identify one which matches the rhythm they heard in Part 1.

General Musicianship Questions

Candidates will be asked five questions. Four of these will be music knowledge questions, based on any one of the pieces performed in the exam, the fifth will be about knowledge of the candidate’s own voice. Candidates can use brief demonstrations to support their verbal explanations.

Part 1: General Music Knowledge
There will be four music knowledge questions in relation to one of the pieces performed in the exam. Candidates will be asked which piece they would like to be asked about. If the candidate’s copy of the chosen piece contains extensive handwritten notes the examiner may either use their own version of the score as the basis for the questions or they may request that candidates select a different piece.

Candidates may be asked to identify:

• The treble clef
• The time signature
• A rest (of any value)
• The rhythmic value of one note, from the following:

– Whole note

– Half note

– Quarter note

Part 2: Knowledge of the Voice
There will be one question about the candidate’s knowledge of their voice, chosen by the examiner from the list below. Candidates may be asked:

• • Where is your diaphragm?
  • Where is your larynx?
  • What is the difference between head voice and chest voice?
  • Why is it important to warm up before singing?

Performance Pieces

Candidates must prepare a total of three pieces for a Grade Exam and five pieces for a Performance Certificate.

The ten songs at grade 2 are:

Featured Repertoire:

• Anika Noni Rose – Almost There (from The Princess and the Frog)
• Macy Gray – I Try
• Justin Timberlake – Can’t Stop the Feeling
• Childish Gambino – Summertime Magic
• The White Stripes – Seven Nation Army
• Harry Styles – Sign of the Times
• Ella Fitzgerald – Summertime
• Noisettes – Don’t Upset the Rhythm
• Ellie Goulding – Your Song
• Ed Sheeran – Afterglow

Technical Exercises

Please note: The following information relates to the new 2021 Vocals syllabus launched in September 2021. For exam information relating to the 2014 – 2021 Vocals syllabus, please download the syllabus specification at the base of this page!

There are four groups of technical exercises at this grade: Scales, Arpeggios, Intervals and Technical Studies. The scale, arpeggio and intervals are to be performed to a click track, the technical study to a backing track. The exercises may be performed using any vocal sound except humming or whistling.

GROUP A – Scales

Candidates are to perform the following scale, as written in the grade book:

Scale: Natural minor scale
Starting note: Candidate’s choice
Range: 1 octave
Tempo: 80bpm
Accompaniment: Click track

The examiner will ask the candidate which starting note they have chosen (the examiner can play starting notes in the range A3–G#4, but candidates may sing in any octave). Candidates will hear the starting note, followed by a 1-bar count in, before performing the test to the metronome click.

Group B: Arpeggios

Candidates are to prepare both of the following arpeggios, as written in the grade book. The examiner will ask for one of them to be performed in the exam:

Minor arpeggio | Pattern 1
Starting note: Candidate’s choice
Range: Up to the 5th
Tempo: 80bpm
Accompaniment: Click track

Minor arpeggio | Pattern 2
Starting note: Candidate’s choice
Range: 1 octave
Tempo: 80bpm
Accompaniment: Click track

The examiner will ask the candidate which starting note they have chosen (the examiner can play starting notes in the range A3–G#4, but candidates may sing in any octave). Candidates will hear the starting note, followed by a 1-bar count in, before performing the test to the metronome click.

Group C – Intervals

Candidates are to prepare both of the following intervals, as written in the grade book. The examiner will ask for one of them to be performed in the exam:

Major 3rd, ascending
Starting note: Candidate’s choice
Tempo: 90bpm
Accompaniment: Click track

Minor 3rd, ascending
Starting note: Candidate’s choice
Tempo: 90bpm
Accompaniment: Click track

The examiner will ask the candidate which starting note they have chosen (the examiner can play starting notes in the range A3–G#4, but candidates may sing in any octave). Candidates will hear the starting note, followed by a 1-bar count in, before performing the test to the metronome click.

Group C – Technical Studies

Candidates are to prepare both the rhythmic study and the melodic study from the grade book. The examiner will ask for one of them to be performed in the exam.

Rhythmic study
If the examiner requests the rhythmic study, candidates will hear a 4-beat count in, before performing the test to the backing track. The tempo is 86bpm.

Melodic study
If the examiner requests the melodic study, they will ask candidates which option they are going to perform (Option 1: A major or Option 2: E major). Candidates will hear the starting note, followed by a 4-beat count in, before performing the test to the backing track. The tempo is 100bpm.

Supporting Tests

Please note: The following information relates to the new 2021 Vocals syllabus launched in September 2021. For exam information relating to the 2014 – 2021 Vocals syllabus, please download the syllabus specification at the base of this page!

Before seeing the tests, the examiner will ask whether the candidate wishes to perform a piece of sight reading or take a test of improvisation and interpretation. Once the candidate has decided, they cannot change their mind.

Sight Reading

Requirements

Candidates will be given a short previously unseen rhythm to perform, using any vocal sound except humming or whistling. The rhythm will be 4 bars long, in the key of C major or A minor, covering a range of up to a major 3rd. The tempo will be 70–80bpm.

Process

Candidates will be given 90 seconds to practise, after which they will perform the test. Before the practice time begins, candidates will be given the choice of a metronome click throughout or having a 4-beat count in at the beginning. Whichever option candidates choose, the practice time will start with the examiner playing the root note. Candidates will receive the same choice when performing the test.

Improvisation & Interpretation

Requirements

Candidates will be given a previously unseen chord progression, over which they will improvise a melody using any vocal sound except humming or whistling. The chord progression will be 4 bars long, in the key of A minor. The tempo will be 90bpm.

Process

Candidates will hear the backing track three times. Candidates can rehearse during the first and second playthroughs, before performing the improvisation over the third playthrough. Only their improvisation over the final playthrough will be assessed. Each playthrough will begin with the root note and a 4-beat count in. The backing track is continuous throughout, so once the first playthrough has finished, the root note and count in of the second and third playthroughs will start immediately.

Ear Tests

Candidates will be given both of the following ear tests, examples of which are included in the grade book:

• Test 1: Melodic Recall
• Test 2: Rhythmic Recall

Test 1: Melodic Recall

• Requirements: The examiner will play a melody. Candidates will then sing back the melody to a drum backing, using any vocal sound except humming or whistling. The melody will be a 2-bar diatonic melody in the key of C major, starting on the root note, using the first three notes of the scale. Candidates may sing in any octave. The melody will be based on half notes and quarter notes. The tempo will be 85bpm.
• Process: The test will be played twice, each time preceded by a 4-beat count in. There will be a short gap after each playthrough. After the gap following the second playthrough candidates will be given a vocal count in, after which they should play the melody back to the drum backing.

Test 2: Rhythmic Recall

There are two parts to this test: Rhythm Recall and Identification.

Part 1: Rhythm Recall

• Requirements: The examiner will play a 2-bar rhythm. Candidates will be asked to sing the rhythm back, on any pitch, using ‘da’ or ‘ba’ vocal sounds. The rhythm will be played on a single note, to a drum backing. The tempo will be 90bpm.
• Process: The test will be played twice, each time preceded by a 4-beat count in. There will be a short gap after each playthrough. After the gap following the second playthrough candidates will be given a vocal count in, after which they should sing the rhythm back. The length of time available after the second playthrough is pre-recorded on the audio track so the vocal count in may begin while the candidate is still practising.

Part 2: Identification

• Requirements: Candidates will be asked to identify the rhythm they heard in Part 1.
• Process: Candidates will be shown two notated rhythms. They will be asked to identify one which matches the rhythm they heard in Part 1.

General Musicianship Questions

Candidates will be asked five questions. Four of these will be music knowledge questions, based on any one of the pieces performed in the exam, the fifth will be about knowledge of the candidate’s own voice. Candidates can use brief demonstrations to support their verbal explanations.

Part 1: General Music Knowledge
There will be four music knowledge questions in relation to one of the pieces performed in the exam. Candidates will be asked which piece they would like to be asked about. If the candidate’s copy of the chosen piece contains extensive handwritten notes the examiner may either use their own version of the score as the basis for the questions or they may request that candidates select a different piece.

Candidates may be asked to identify:

• • • Identify any pitch name (candidates will not need to state flat, sharp or natural)
    • Identify rhythmic values, from the following:

– Whole note

– Half note

– Quarter note

– Eighth note

– Sixteenth note
• Identify any rest values
• Identify and explain the meaning of any of the following:

– 4/4 time signature marking

– Repeat marks, 1st and 2nd time bars

– Staccato marks

– Slurs

Part 2: Knowledge of the Voice
There will be one question about the candidate’s knowledge of their voice, chosen by the examiner from the list below. Candidates may be asked:

• • • What is the meaning of ‘diction’?
    • What is the meaning of ‘tone’?
    • During a song, when would be a better time to take a breath?
    • Why is posture important when singing?

Performance Pieces

Candidates must prepare a total of three pieces for a Grade Exam and five pieces for a Performance Certificate.

The ten songs at grade 3 are:

Featured Repertoire:

• Judy Kuhn – Colors of the Wind (from Pocahontas)
• Bruno Mars – Marry You
• Taylor Swift – 22
• Billie Holiday – All of Me
• George Ezra – Shotgun
• Pharrell Williams – Happy
• Jon Batiste – It’s All Right (from Soul)
• Amy Winehouse – Valerie
• Birdy – People Help the People
• Imagine Dragons – Radioactive

Technical Exercises

Please note: The following information relates to the new 2021 Vocals syllabus launched in September 2021. For exam information relating to the 2014 – 2021 Vocals syllabus, please download the syllabus specification at the base of this page!

There are four groups of technical exercises at this grade: Scales, Arpeggios, Intervals and Technical Studies. The scales, arpeggios and intervals are to be performed to a click track, the technical study to a backing track. The exercises may be performed using any vocal sound except humming or whistling.

GROUP A – Scales

Candidates are to prepare both of the following scales, as written in the grade book. The examiner will ask for one of them to be performed in the exam:

Major Scale
Starting note: Candidate’s choice
Range: 1 octave
Tempo: 90bpm
Accompaniment: Click track

Natural Minor Scale
Starting note: Candidate’s choice
Range: 1 octave
Tempo: 90bpm
Accompaniment: Click track

The examiner will ask the candidate which starting note they have chosen (the examiner can play starting notes in the range A3–G#4, but candidates may sing in any octave). Candidates will hear the starting note, followed by a 1-bar count in, before performing the test to the metronome click.

Group B: Arpeggios

Candidates are to prepare both of the following arpeggios, as written in the grade book. The examiner will ask for one of them to be performed in the exam:

Major Arpeggio
Starting note: Candidate’s choice
Range: 1 octave
Tempo: 90bpm
Accompaniment: Click track

Minor Arpeggio
Starting note: Candidate’s choice
Range: 1 octave
Tempo: 90bpm
Accompaniment: Click track

Group C – Intervals

Candidates are to prepare both of the following intervals, as written in the grade book. The examiner will ask for one of them to be performed in the exam:

Perfect 4th, ascending
Starting note: Candidate’s choice
Tempo: 90bpm
Accompaniment: Click track

Perfect 5th, ascending
Starting note: Candidate’s choice
Tempo: 90bpm
Accompaniment: Click track

The examiner will ask the candidate which starting note they have chosen (the examiner can play starting notes in the range A3–G#4, but candidates may sing in any octave). Candidates will hear the starting note, followed by a 1-bar count in, before performing the test to the metronome click.

Group D – Technical Studies

Candidates are to prepare both the rhythmic study and the melodic study from the grade book. The examiner will ask for one of them to be performed in the exam.

Rhythmic study
If the examiner requests the rhythmic study, candidates will hear a 4-beat count in, before performing the test to the backing track. The tempo is 95bpm.

Melodic study
If the examiner requests the melodic study, they will ask candidates which option they are going to perform: (Option 1: F# or Option 2: B# minor). Candidates will hear the root note, followed by a 4-beat count in, before performing the test to the backing track. The tempo is 100bpm.

Supporting Tests

Please note: The following information relates to the new 2021 Vocals syllabus launched in September 2021. For exam information relating to the 2014 – 2021 Vocals syllabus, please download the syllabus specification at the base of this page!

Before seeing the tests, the examiner will ask whether the candidate wishes to perform a piece of sight reading or take a test of improvisation and interpretation. Once the candidate has decided, they cannot change their mind.

Sight Reading

Requirements

Candidates will be given a short previously unseen rhythm to perform, using any vocal sound except humming or whistling. The rhythm will be 4 bars long, in the key of F major or D minor, covering a range of up to a perfect 5th. Candidates may sing in any octave. The tempo will be 75–85bpm.

Process

Candidates will be given 90 seconds to practise, after which they will perform the test. Before the practice time begins, candidates will be given the choice of a metronome click throughout or having a 4-beat count in at the beginning. Whichever option candidates choose, the practice time will start with the examiner playing the root note. Candidates will receive the same choice when performing the test.

Improvisation & Interpretation

Requirements

Candidates will be given a previously unseen chord progression, over which they will improvise a melody using any vocal sound except humming or whistling. The chord progression will be 4 bars long, in the key of G major or E minor. The tempo will be 80–90bpm.

Process

Candidates will hear the backing track three times. Candidates can rehearse during the first and second playthroughs, before performing the improvisation over the third playthrough. Only their improvisation over the final playthrough will be assessed. Each playthrough will begin with the root note and a 4-beat count in. The backing track is continuous throughout, so once the first playthrough has finished, the root note and count in of the second and third playthroughs will start immediately.

Ear Tests

Candidates will be given both of the following ear tests, examples of which are included in the grade book:

• Test 1: Melodic Recall
• Test 2: Rhythmic Recall

Test 1: Melodic Recall

• Requirements: The examiner will play a melody. Candidates will then sing back the melody to a drum backing, using any vocal sound except humming or whistling. The melody will be a 2-bar diatonic melody in the key of C major or A minor, starting on the root note, using up to the first five notes of the scale. Candidates may sing in any octave. The melody may contain half notes, quarter notes and eighth notes and may contain rests. The tempo will be 90bpm.
• Process: The test will be played twice, each time preceded by a 4-beat count in. There will be a short gap after each playthrough. After the gap following the second playthrough candidates will be given a vocal count in, after which they should play the melody back to the drum backing.

Test 2: Rhythmic Recall

There are two parts to this test: Rhythm Recall and Identification.

Part 1: Rhythm Recall

• Requirements: The examiner will play a 2-bar rhythm. Candidates will be asked to sing the rhythm back, on any pitch, using ‘da’ or ‘ba’ vocal sounds. The rhythm will be played on a single note, to a drum backing. The tempo will be 90bpm.
• Process: The test will be played twice, each time preceded by a 4-beat count in. There will be a short gap after each playthrough. After the gap following the second playthrough candidates will be given a vocal count in, after which they should sing the rhythm back. The length of time available after the second playthrough is pre-recorded on the audio track so the vocal count in may begin while the candidate is still practising.

Part 2: Identification

• Requirements: Candidates will be asked to identify the rhythm they heard in Part 1.
• Process: Candidates will be shown two notated rhythms. They will be asked to identify one which matches the rhythm they heard in Part 1.

General Musicianship Questions

Candidates will be asked five questions. Four of these will be music knowledge questions, based on any one of the pieces performed in the exam, the fifth will be about knowledge of the candidate’s own voice. Candidates can use brief demonstrations to support their verbal explanations.

Part 1: General Music Knowledge
There will be four music knowledge questions in relation to one of the pieces performed in the exam. Candidates will be asked which piece they would like to be asked about. If the candidate’s copy of the chosen piece contains extensive handwritten notes the examiner may either use their own version of the score as the basis for the questions or they may request that candidates select a different piece.

Candidates may be asked to identify:

• Identify any pitch name (including stating flat, sharp or natural)
• Identify rhythmic values, from the following:

– Whole note

– Half note

– Quarter note

– Eighth note

– Sixteenth note

– Triplet eighth notes

• Identify any interval up to a fifth between two adjacent notes (candidates will not need to state major, minor or perfect)

• Identify and explain the meaning of any of the following:

– 4/4 time signature marking

– Repeat marks, 1st and 2nd time bars

– Staccato marks

– Slurs

– Crescendo/diminuendo

– D.C. al Coda, D.S. al Coda and al Fine markings

– Ad lib.

Part 2: Knowledge of the Voice
There will be one question about the candidate’s knowledge of their voice, chosen by the examiner from the list below. Candidates may be asked:

• • What is the meaning of the ‘break’?
  • What is the meaning of ‘transition’?
  • How do you support a long sustained note?
  • Give an example of a type of food that would be good to eat before a performance?
  • Give an example of a type of food that would not be good to eat before a performance?

Performance Pieces

Candidates must prepare a total of three pieces for a Grade Exam and five pieces for a Performance Certificate.

The ten songs at grade 4 are:

Featured Repertoire:

• Queen – Another One Bites the Dust
• Billie Eilish – Ocean Eyes
• Stevie Wonder – Higher Ground
• BTS – Dynamite
• Nina Simone – My Baby Just Cares for Me
• Massive Attack – Teardrop
• Adele – Someone like You
• Passenger – Let Her Go
• Coldplay – Magic
• Rihanna – Diamonds

Technical Exercises

Please note: The following information relates to the new 2021 Vocals syllabus launched in September 2021. For exam information relating to the 2014 – 2021 Vocals syllabus, please download the syllabus specification at the base of this page!

There are five groups of technical exercises at this grade: Scales, Arpeggios, Intervals, Melodic Studies and Backing Vocals. The scale, arpeggios and intervals are to be performed to a click track, the melodic study and backing vocals to backing tracks. Unless specified otherwise, the exercises may be performed using any vocal sound except humming or whistling.

GROUP A – Scales

Candidates are to perform the following scale, as written in the grade book:

Major Pentatonic Scale
Starting note: Candidate’s choice
Range: 1 octave
Tempo: 80bpm
Accompaniment: Click track

The examiner will ask the candidate which starting note they have chosen (the examiner can play starting notes in the range A3–G#4, but candidates may sing in any octave). Candidates will hear the starting note, followed by a 1-bar count in, before performing the test to the metronome click.

Group B: Arpeggios

Candidates are to prepare both of the following arpeggios, as written in the grade book. The examiner will ask for one of them to be performed in the exam:

Major Arpeggio
Starting note: Candidate’s choice
Range: Up to a tenth
Tempo: 80bpm
Accompaniment: Click track

Major arpeggio (ascending), dominant 7 arpeggio (descending)
Starting note: Candidate’s choice
Range: 1 octave
Tempo: 80bpm
Accompaniment: Click track

The examiner will ask the candidate which starting note they have chosen (the examiner can play starting notes in the range A3–G#4, but candidates may sing in any octave). Candidates will hear the starting note, followed by a 1-bar count in, before performing the test to the metronome click.

Group C – Intervals

Candidates are to prepare both of the following intervals, as written in the grade book. The examiner will ask for one of them to be performed in the exam:

Major 6th, ascending
Starting note: Candidate’s choice
Tempo: 90bpm
Accompaniment: Click track

Major 7th, ascending
Starting note: Candidate’s choice
Tempo: 90bpm
Accompaniment: Click track

The examiner will ask the candidate which starting note they have chosen (the examiner can play starting notes in the range A3–G#4, but candidates may sing in any octave). Candidates will hear the starting note, followed by a 1-bar count in, before performing the test to the metronome click.

Group D – Melodic Studies

Candidates are to perform one of the two melodic studies given in the grade book. The examiner will ask which study the candidate has prepared (Study 1 or Study 2). Candidates will hear the root note, followed by a 4-beat count in, before performing the test to the backing track.

Group E – Backing Vocals

Candidates are to perform one of the two backing vocals exercises given in the grade book. Each exercise in the book has two notated vocal parts — candidates must prepare both of these for their chosen exercise. The examiner will ask which exercise the candidate has prepared (Exercise 1 or Exercise 2). They will then select one of the vocal parts for the candidate to perform (the other two notated parts will be included on the backing track). Candidates will hear the root note, followed by a 4-beat count in, before performing the test to the backing track.

Supporting Tests

Please note: The following information relates to the new 2021 Vocals syllabus launched in September 2021. For exam information relating to the 2014 – 2021 Vocals syllabus, please download the syllabus specification at the base of this page!

Before seeing the tests, the examiner will ask whether the candidate wishes to perform a piece of sight reading or take a test of improvisation and interpretation. Once the candidate has decided, they cannot change their mind.

Sight Reading

Requirements

Candidates will be given a short previously unseen rhythm to perform, using any vocal sound except humming or whistling. The rhythm will be 4 bars long, in the key of F major or D minor, covering a range of up to a perfect 5th. Candidates may sing in any octave. The tempo will be 75–85bpm.

Process

Candidates will be given 90 seconds to practise, after which they will perform the test. Before the practice time begins, candidates will be given the choice of a metronome click throughout or having a 4-beat count in at the beginning. Whichever option candidates choose, the practice time will start with the examiner playing the root note. Candidates will receive the same choice when performing the test.

Improvisation & Interpretation

Requirements

Candidates will be given a previously unseen chord progression, over which they will improvise a melody using any vocal sound except humming or whistling. The chord progression will be 4 bars long, in the key of G major or E minor. The tempo will be 80–90bpm.

Process

Candidates will hear the backing track three times. Candidates can rehearse during the first and second playthroughs, before performing the improvisation over the third playthrough. Only their improvisation over the final playthrough will be assessed. Each playthrough will begin with the root note and a 4-beat count in. The backing track is continuous throughout, so once the first playthrough has finished, the root note and count in of the second and third playthroughs will start immediately.

Ear Tests

Candidates will be given both of the following ear tests, examples of which are included in the grade book:

• Test 1: Melodic Recall
• Test 2: Rhythmic Recall

Test 1: Melodic Recall

• Requirements: The examiner will play a melody. Candidates will then sing back the melody to a drum backing, using any vocal sound except humming or whistling. The melody will be a 2-bar diatonic melody in the key of C major or A minor, starting on the root note, using up to the first five notes of the scale. Candidates may sing in any octave. The melody may contain half notes, quarter notes and eighth notes and may contain rests. The tempo will be 90bpm.
• Process: The test will be played twice, each time preceded by a 4-beat count in. There will be a short gap after each playthrough. After the gap following the second playthrough candidates will be given a vocal count in, after which they should play the melody back to the drum backing.

Test 2: Rhythmic Recall

There are two parts to this test: Rhythm Recall and Identification.

Part 1: Rhythm Recall

• Requirements: The examiner will play a 2-bar rhythm. Candidates will be asked to sing the rhythm back, on any pitch, using ‘da’ or ‘ba’ vocal sounds. The rhythm will be played on a single note, to a drum backing. The tempo will be 90bpm.
• Process: The test will be played twice, each time preceded by a 4-beat count in. There will be a short gap after each playthrough. After the gap following the second playthrough candidates will be given a vocal count in, after which they should sing the rhythm back. The length of time available after the second playthrough is pre-recorded on the audio track so the vocal count in may begin while the candidate is still practising.

Part 2: Identification

• Requirements: Candidates will be asked to identify the rhythm they heard in Part 1.
• Process: Candidates will be shown two notated rhythms. They will be asked to identify one which matches the rhythm they heard in Part 1.

General Musicianship Questions

Candidates will be asked five questions. Four of these will be music knowledge questions, based on any one of the pieces performed in the exam, the fifth will be about knowledge of the candidate’s own voice. Candidates can use brief demonstrations to support their verbal explanations.

Part 1: General Music Knowledge
There will be four music knowledge questions in relation to one of the pieces performed in the exam. Candidates will be asked which piece they would like to be asked about. If the candidate’s copy of the chosen piece contains extensive handwritten notes the examiner may either use their own version of the score as the basis for the questions or they may request that candidates select a different piece.

Candidates may be asked to identify:

• Identify any pitch name (including stating flat, sharp or natural)
• Identify rhythmic values, from the following:

– Whole note

– Half note

– Quarter note

– Eighth note

– Sixteenth note

– Triplet eighth notes

• • Identify rest values, and adjacent rest value combinations, from the following:
  – Whole note
• – Half note
• – Quarter note
• – Eighth note
• – Sixteenth note
• • Identify any interval up to a 7th between two adjacent notes (candidates will not need to state major, minor or perfect)
• • Identify and explain the meaning of any of the following:
• – Any time signature marking
• – Any dynamic marking
• – Ad lib.
  – Any tempo marking

Part 2: Knowledge of the Voice
There will be one question about the candidate’s knowledge of their voice, chosen by the examiner from the list below. Candidates may be asked:

• How do you ensure consistent vocal tone?

• How do you create breathy (aspirate) tone?

• When would you use vibrato?

Performance Pieces

Candidates must prepare a total of three pieces for a Grade Exam and five pieces for a Performance Certificate.

The ten songs at grade 5 are:

Featured Repertoire:

• Fleetwood Mac – Don’t Stop
• Kings of Leon – Use Somebody
• Lady Gaga – A Million Reasons
• Ella Fitzgerald – Dream a Little Dream of Me
• Adele – Chasing Pavements
• Marvin Gaye / Allen Stone – What’s Going On
• Jorja Smith – Don’t Watch Me Cry
• Sam Smith – I’m Not the Only One
• John Legend – All Of Me
• Christina Aguilera – Reflection (from Mulan)

Technical Exercises

Please note: The following information relates to the new 2021 Vocals syllabus launched in September 2021. For exam information relating to the 2014 – 2021 Vocals syllabus, please download the syllabus specification at the base of this page!

There are five groups of technical exercises at this grade: Scales, Arpeggios, Intervals, Melodic Studies and Backing Vocals. The scale, arpeggios and intervals are to be performed to a click track, the melodic study and backing vocals to backing tracks. Unless specified otherwise, the exercises may be performed using any vocal sound except humming or whistling.

GROUP A – Scales

Candidates are to perform the following scale, as written in the grade book:

Minor Pentatonic Scale
Starting note: Candidate’s choice
Range: 1 octave
Tempo: 80bpm
Accompaniment: Click track

The examiner will ask the candidate which starting note they have chosen (the examiner can play starting notes in the range A3–G#4, but candidates may sing in any octave). Candidates will hear the starting note, followed by a 1-bar count in, before performing the test to the metronome click.

Group B: Arpeggios

Candidates are to perform the following arpeggio, as written in the grade book:

Major arpeggio (ascending), dominant 7 arpeggio (descending)
Starting note: Candidate’s choice
Range: Up to a twelfth
Tempo: 80bpm
Accompaniment: Click track

The examiner will ask the candidate which starting note they have chosen (the examiner can play starting notes in the range A3–G#4, but candidates may sing in any octave). Candidates will hear the starting note, followed by a 1-bar count in, before performing the test to the metronome click.

Group C – Intervals

Candidates are to prepare both of the following intervals, as written in the grade book. The examiner will ask for one of them to be performed in the exam:

Minor 6th, ascending
Starting note: Candidate’s choice
Tempo: 90bpm
Accompaniment: Click track

Minor 7th, ascending
Starting note: Candidate’s choice
Tempo: 90bpm
Accompaniment: Click track

The examiner will ask the candidate which starting note they have chosen (the examiner can play starting notes in the range A3–G#4, but candidates may sing in any octave). Candidates will hear the starting note, followed by a 1-bar count in, before performing the test to the metronome click.

Group D – Melodic Studies

Candidates are to perform one of the two melodic studies given in the grade book. The examiner will ask which study the candidate has prepared (Study 1 or Study 2). Candidates will hear the root note, followed by a 4-beat count in, before performing the test to the backing track.

Group E – Backing Vocals

Candidates are to perform one of the two backing vocals exercises given in the grade book. Each exercise in the book has two notated vocal parts — candidates must prepare both of these for their chosen exercise. The examiner will ask which exercise the candidate has prepared (Exercise 1 or Exercise 2). They will then select one of the vocal parts for the candidate to perform (the other two notated parts will be included on the backing track). Candidates will hear the root note, followed by a 4-beat count in, before performing the test to the backing track.

Supporting Tests

Please note: The following information relates to the new 2021 Vocals syllabus launched in September 2021. For exam information relating to the 2014 – 2021 Vocals syllabus, please download the syllabus specification at the base of this page!

Before seeing the tests, the examiner will ask whether the candidate wishes to perform a piece of sight reading or take a test of improvisation and interpretation. Once the candidate has decided, they cannot change their mind.

Sight Reading

Requirements

Candidates will be given a short previously unseen piece to perform. The piece will be 8 bars long, in the key of D major, Bb major, B minor, D minor or E minor, starting on the root note, covering a range of up to a octave. Candidates may sing in any octave. During the first 6 bars candidates will sing the written melody and lyrics. During the final 2 bars candidates will improvise a melody using any vocal sound except humming or whistling. The tempo will be 85–95bpm.

Process

Candidates will be given 90 seconds to practise, after which they will perform the test. Before the practice time begins, candidates will be given the choice of a metronome click throughout or having a 4-beat count in at the beginning. Whichever option candidates choose, the practice time will start with the examiner playing the root note. Candidates will receive the same choice when performing the test.

Improvisation & Interpretation

Requirements

Candidates will be given a previously unseen chord progression. The chord progression will be 8 bars long, in the key of D major, Bb major, E minor or D minor. During the first 6 bars candidates will sing the written melody and lyrics. During the final 6 bars candidates will improvise a melody, using any vocal sound except humming or whistling. The tempo will be 90–100bpm.

Process

Candidates will hear the backing track twice. Candidates can rehearse during the first playthrough, before performing the improvisation over the third playthrough. Only their performance over the final playthrough will be assessed. Both playthroughs will begin with the root note and a 4-beat count in. The backing track is continuous throughout, so once the first playthrough has finished, the root note and count in of the second playthrough will start immediately.

Ear Tests

Candidates will be given both of the following ear tests, examples of which are included in the grade book:

• Test 1: Melodic Recall
• Test 2: Harmony Vocals

Test 1: Melodic Recall

• Requirements: The examiner will play a melody. Candidates will then sing back the melody to a drum backing, using any vocal sound except humming or whistling. The melody will be a 2-bar diatonic melody in the key of Bb major or C minor, starting on the root note, using up to the first six notes of the scale (for minor key tests this will be the first six notes of the natural minor scale). Candidates my sing in any octave. The melody may contain half notes, quarter notes and eighth notes and will contain at least one rest. The tempo will be 90bpm.
• Process: The test will be played twice, each time preceded by a 4-beat count in. There will be a short gap after each playthrough. After the gap following the second playthrough candidates will be given a vocal count in, after which they should play the melody back to the drum backing.

Test 2: Harmony Vocals

• Requirements: The examiner will play a 4-bar melody. Candidates will be asked to harmonise the melody a diatonic 3rd above, using the same rhythm and lyrics. The melody will be based on chords I, IV and V. The tempo will be 90–110bpm.
• Process: Candidates will be asked whether they would like a higher-pitched test or a lower-pitched test. The higher-pitched test will be in A or F major (Option 1), the lower-pitched test in C or A major (Option 2). They will be given the lyrics for their test. The test will be played twice, each time preceded by the root note and a 4-beat count in. There will be a short gap after each playthrough. After the gap following the second playthrough candidates will be given a vocal count in, after which they should sing their harmony line. The length of time available after the second playthrough is pre-recorded on the audio track so the vocal count in may begin while the candidate is still practising.

General Musicianship Questions

Candidates will be asked five questions. Four of these will be music knowledge questions, based on any one of the pieces performed in the exam, the fifth will be about knowledge of the candidate’s own voice. Candidates can use brief demonstrations to support their verbal explanations.

Part 1: General Music Knowledge
There will be four music knowledge questions in relation to one of the pieces performed in the exam. Candidates will be asked which piece they would like to be asked about. If the candidate’s copy of the chosen piece contains extensive handwritten notes the examiner may either use their own version of the score as the basis for the questions or they may request that candidates select a different piece.

Candidates may be asked to identify:

• • • Identify any pitch name (including stating flat, sharp or natural)
    • Identify note values, and adjacent note value combinations, from the following:

– Whole note

– Half note

– Quarter note

– Eighth note

– Sixteenth note

– Triplet eighth notes

• • Identify rest values, and adjacent rest value combinations, from the following:
  – Whole note
  – Half note
  – Quarter note
  – Eighth note
  – Sixteenth note
  • Identify any interval up to a 7th between two adjacent notes (candidates will not need to state major, minor or perfect)
  • Identify and explain the meaning of any of the following:
    – Any time signature marking
  • • – Any dynamic marking
    • – Any tempo marking
    • – Any key signature
    • – A swung rhythm marking

  Part 2: Knowledge of the Voice

  There will be one question about the candidate’s knowledge of their voice, chosen by the examiner from the list below. Candidates may be asked:

  • Using your articulators (mouth/lips/tongue/teeth/jaw), how can you modify a bright ‘ee’ sound to produce a less bright tone?
  • How would you prevent straining during prolonged use of louder dynamics?
  • Can you suggest two exercises that can help develop control over dynamics across your range?

Performance Pieces

Candidates must prepare a total of three pieces for a Grade Exam and five pieces for a Performance Certificate.

The ten songs at grade 6 are:

Featured Repertoire:

• The Weeknd – Blinding Lights
• Alanis Morisette – You Learn
• Labrinth – Jealous
• Ariana Grande – Tattooed Heart
• Lewis Capaldi – Someone You Loved
• Marvin Gaye – I Heard It Through the Grapevine
• Bastille / Marshmello – Happier
• Sarah Vaughan – Lullaby of Birdland
• Beyoncé – Halo
• Tiana Major9, EARTHGANG – Collide (from Queen & Slim soundtrack)

Technical Exercises

Please note: The following information relates to the new 2021 Vocals syllabus launched in September 2021. For exam information relating to the 2014 – 2021 Vocals syllabus, please download the syllabus specification at the base of this page!

There are five groups of technical exercises at this grade: Scales, Arpeggios, Intervals, Backing Vocals and Stylistic Studies. The scale, arpeggio and intervals are to be performed to a click track, the backing vocals and stylistic study to backing tracks. Unless specified otherwise, the exercises may be performed using any vocal sound except humming or whistling.

GROUP A – Scales

Candidates are to perform the following scale, as written in the grade book:

Blues Scale
Starting note: Candidate’s choice
Range: 1 octave
Tempo: 100bpm
Accompaniment: Click track

The examiner will ask the candidate which starting note they have chosen (the examiner can play starting notes in the range A3–G#4, but candidates may sing in any octave). Candidates will hear the starting note, followed by a 1-bar count in, before performing the test to the metronome click.

Group B: Arpeggios

Candidates are to perform the following arpeggio, as written in the grade book:

Major and diminished arpeggio
Starting note: Candidate’s choice
Range: Up to a fifth
Tempo: 100bpm
Accompaniment: Click track

The examiner will ask the candidate which starting note they have chosen (the examiner can play starting notes in the range A3–G#4, but candidates may sing in any octave). Candidates will hear the starting note, followed by a 1-bar count in, before performing the test to the metronome click.

Group C – Intervals

Candidates are to prepare both of the following interval sequences, as written in the grade book. The examiner will ask for one of them to be performed in the exam:

Major 7ths and Major 6ths
Starting note: Candidate’s choice
Tempo: 90bpm
Accompaniment: Click track

Minor 7ths and Minor 6ths
Starting note: Candidate’s choice
Tempo: 90bpm
Accompaniment: Click track

The examiner will ask the candidate which starting note they have chosen (the examiner can play starting notes in the range A3–G#4, but candidates may sing in any octave). Candidates will hear the starting note, followed by a 4-beat count in, before performing the test to the metronome click.

Group D – Backing Vocals

Candidates are to perform one of the two backing vocals exercises given in the grade book. Each exercise in the book has three notated vocal parts — candidates must prepare all of these for their chosen exercise. The examiner will ask which exercise the candidate has prepared (Exercise 1 or Exercise 2). They will then select one of the vocal parts for the candidate to perform (the other two notated parts will be included on the backing track). Candidates will hear the root note, followed by a 1-bar count in, before performing the test to the backing track.

Group E – Stylistic Studies

Candidates are to perform one of the eight stylistic studies given in the grade book. The studies are divided into the four distinct genre groups below, with two options for each genre group:

• Pop and Musical Theatre
• Soul and Contemporary R&B
• Jazz and Blues
• Rock and Indie

The examiner will ask which genre group and which study the candidate has prepared (Study 1 or Study 2). Candidates may sing in any octave but the studies cannot be transposed to a different key. Candidates will hear the root note, followed by a 4-beat count in, before performing the test to the backing track. Note that the choice of genre group for this test will determine the style of the Quick Study Piece the examiner will select in the exam.

Supporting Tests

Please note: The following information relates to the new 2021 Vocals syllabus launched in September 2021. For exam information relating to the 2014 – 2021 Vocals syllabus, please download the syllabus specification at the base of this page!

Quick Study Piece

Requirements

Candidates will be given a short previously unseen piece to perform, the style of which will be one of the two from the genre group that candidates chose for their stylistic study. The piece will be 12 bars long, in any major or minor key up to three sharps/flats, covering a range of up to a 10th. In bars 1 to 4 candidates will sing the written melody and lyrics; in bars 5 to 8 candidates will improvise a variation on the first 4 bars, developing the melody and lyrics as they wish; in bars 9 to 12 candidates will improvise a melody using any vocal sound except humming or whistling. The tempo will be 70–160bpm.

Preparation

Candidates will be asked whether they would like a higher-pitched test or a lower-pitched test. Candidates will by played a full mix version of the track, including the notated parts. They will then be given 3 minutes to practise, after which they will perform the test. Before the practice time begins, candidates will be given the choice of a metronome click throughout or having a 4-beat count in at the beginning. Whichever option candidates choose, the practice time will start with the examiner playing the root note. The root note will be played again halfway through the practice time.

Performance

After the practice time, the backing track will be played twice more with the notated parts now absent. The first time is for candidates to rehearse and the second time to perform the final version for the exam. Only the performance over the final playthrough will be assessed. Each playthrough will begin with the root note and a 4-beat count in. The backing track is continuous throughout, so once the first playthrough has finished, the root note and count in of the second playthrough will start immediately.

Ear Tests

Candidates will be given both of the following ear tests, examples of which are included in the grade book:

• Test 1: Melodic Recall
• Test 2: Harmony Vocals

Test 1: Melodic Recall

• Requirements: The examiner will play a melody. Candidates will then sing back the melody to a drum backing, using any vocal sound except humming or whistling. The melody will be a 2-bar diatonic melody in the key of A major or D natural minor, starting on the root note or the 5th, covering a range of up to an octave above the root note. candidates may sing in any octave. The melody may contain half notes, dotted half notes, quarter notes, eighth notes and sixteenth notes and will contain rests. The tempo will be 90bpm.
• Process: The test will be played twice, each time preceded by a 4-beat count in. There will be a short gap after each playthrough. After the gap following the second playthrough candidates will be given a vocal count in, after which they should play the melody back to the drum backing.

Test 2: Harmony Vocals

• Requirements: The examiner will play a 4-bar melody. Candidates will be asked to harmonise the melody a diatonic 3rd or 4th above, using the same rhythm and lyrics. The melody will be based on chords I, IV, V and VIm. The tempo will be 90–120bpm.
• Process: Candidates will be asked whether they would like a higher-pitched test or a lower-pitched test. The higher-pitched test will be in C or A major (Option 1), the lower-pitched test in G or A major (Option 2). They will be given the lyrics for their test. The test will be played twice, each time preceded by the root note and a 4-beat count in. There will be a short gap after each playthrough. After the gap following the second playthrough candidates will be given a vocal count in, after which they should sing their harmony line. The length of time available after the second playthrough is pre-recorded on the audio track so the vocal count in may begin while the candidate is still practising.

General Musicianship Questions

Candidates will be asked five questions. Three of these will be music knowledge questions, based on any one of the pieces performed in the exam, the fourth will be about improvisation, and the fifth will be about knowledge of the candidate’s own voice or the microphone. Candidates can use brief demonstrations to support their verbal explanations.

Part 1: General Music Knowledge
There will be three music knowledge questions in relation to one of the pieces performed in the exam. Candidates will be asked which piece they would like to be asked about. If the candidate’s copy of the chosen piece contains extensive handwritten notes the examiner may either use their own version of the score as the basis for the questions or they may request that candidates select a different piece.

Candidates may be asked to identify::

• Identify and explain any two sections of notation
• Identify and explain any intervals up to a octave between two adjacent notes (including stating major, minor or perfect)

Part 2: Improvisation
Candidates will be asked to briefly describe and demonstrate their approach to how they would improvise any part of the song, making reference to melody, rhythm, phrasing, dynamics and expression. Candidates can choose the part of the song.

Part 3: Knowledge of the Voice and the Microphone
There will be one question about the candidate’s knowledge of their voice or the microphone, chosen by the examiner from the list below. Candidates may be asked:

• Can you name three effective resonators for singing?
• Can you explain the difference between ‘aspirate onset’ and ‘glottal onset’?
• Which exercises might be safe to perform when your voice is tired or you have a sore throat?
• How can you balance your sound on microphone when switching between chest voice (low register) and head/falsetto voice (high register)?

Performance Pieces

Candidates must prepare a total of three pieces for a Grade Exam and five pieces for a Performance Certificate.

The ten songs at grade 7 are:

Featured Repertoire:

• Chaka Khan – Ain’t Nobody
• Free – Alright Now
• Hamzaa – Sunday Morning
• Muse – Feeling Good
• Gregory Porter – Hey Laura
• Sarah Vaughan – Invitation
• Etta James – Something’s Got a Hold on Me
• Hozier – Movement
• Leona Lewis – Bleeding Love
• Jeff Buckley – Lover, You Should’ve Come Over

Technical Exercises

Please note: The following information relates to the new 2021 Vocals syllabus launched in September 2021. For exam information relating to the 2014 – 2021 Vocals syllabus, please download the syllabus specification at the base of this page!

There are five groups of technical exercises at this grade: Scales, Arpeggios, Intervals, Backing Vocals and Stylistic Studies. The scale, arpeggio and intervals are to be performed to a click track, the backing vocals and stylistic study to backing tracks. Unless specified otherwise, the exercises may be performed using any vocal sound except humming or whistling.

GROUP A – Scales

Candidates are to perform the following scale, as written in the grade book:

Scale: Harmonic minor scale
Starting note: Candidate’s choice
Range: 1 octave
Tempo: 100bpm
Accompaniment: Click track

The examiner will ask the candidate which starting note they have chosen (the examiner can play starting notes in the range A3–G#4, but candidates may sing in any octave). Candidates will hear the starting note, followed by a 1-bar count in, before performing the test to the metronome click.

Group B: Arpeggios

Candidates are to perform the following arpeggio, as written in the grade book:

Arpeggio: Augmented arpeggio
Starting note: Candidate’s choice
Range: 1 octave
Tempo: 100bpm
Accompaniment: Click track

The examiner will ask the candidate which starting note they have chosen (the examiner can play starting notes in the range A3–G#4, but candidates may sing in any octave). Candidates will hear the starting note, followed by a 1-bar count in, before performing the test to the metronome click.

Group C – Intervals

Candidates are to prepare both of the following interval sequences, as written in the grade book. The examiner will ask for one of them to be performed in the exam:

Major 3rds and major 2nds
Starting note: Candidate’s choice
Tempo: 90bpm
Accompaniment: Click track

Minor 3rds and minor 2nds
Starting note: Candidate’s choice
Tempo: 90bpm
Accompaniment: Click track

The examiner will ask the candidate which starting note they have chosen (the examiner can play starting notes in the range A3–G#4, but candidates may sing in any octave). Candidates will hear the starting note, followed by a 1-bar count in, before performing the test to the metronome click.

Group D – Backing Vocals

Candidates are to perform one of the two backing vocals exercises given in the grade book. Each exercise in the book has three notated vocal parts — candidates must prepare all of these for their chosen exercise. The examiner will ask which exercise the candidate has prepared, they will then select one of the vocal parts for the candidate to perform (the other two notated parts will be included on the backing track). Candidates will hear the root note, followed by a 4-beat count in, before performing the test to the backing track.

Group E – Stylistic Studies

Candidates are to perform one of the eight stylistic studies given in the grade book. The studies are divided into the four distinct genre groups below, with two options for each genre group:

• Pop and Musical Theatre
• Soul and Contemporary R&B
• Jazz and Blues
• Rock and Indie

The examiner will ask which genre group and which study the candidate has prepared (study 1 or study 2). Candidates may sing in any octave but the studies cannot be transposed to a different key. Candidates will hear the root note, followed by a 4-beat count in, before performing the test to the backing track. Note that the choice of genre group for this test will determine the style of the Quick Study Piece the examiner will select in the exam.

Supporting Tests

Please note: The following information relates to the new 2021 Vocals syllabus launched in September 2021. For exam information relating to the 2014 – 2021 Vocals syllabus, please download the syllabus specification at the base of this page!

Quick Study Piece

Requirements

Candidates will be given a short previously unseen piece to perform, the style of which will be one of the two from the genre group that candidates chose for their stylistic study. The piece will be 12 bars long, in any major or minor key up to four sharps/flats, covering a range of up to a 10th. In bars 1 to 4 candidates will sing the written melody and lyrics; in bars 5 to 8 candidates will improvise a variation on the first 4 bars, developing the melody and lyrics as they wish; in bars 9 to 12 candidates will improvise a melody using any vocal sound except humming or whistling. The tempo will be 70–160bpm.

Preparation

Candidates will be asked whether they would like a higher-pitched test or a lower-pitched test. Candidates will by played a full mix version of the track, including the notated parts. They will then be given 3 minutes to practise, after which they will perform the test. Before the practice time begins, candidates will be given the choice of a metronome click throughout or having a 4-beat count in at the beginning. Whichever option candidates choose, the practice time will start with the examiner playing the root note. The root note will be played again halfway through the practice time.

Performance

After the practice time, the backing track will be played twice more with the notated parts now absent. The first time is for candidates to rehearse and the second time to perform the final version for the exam. Only the performance over the final playthrough will be assessed. Each playthrough will begin with the root note and a 4-beat count in. The backing track is continuous throughout, so once the first playthrough has finished, the root note and count in of the second playthrough will start immediately.

Ear Tests

Candidates will be given both of the following ear tests, examples of which are included in the grade book:

• Test 1: Melodic Recall
• Test 2: Harmony Vocals

Test 1: Melodic Recall

• Requirements: The examiner will play a melody. Candidates will then sing back the melody to a drum backing, using any vocal sound except humming or whistling. The melody will be a 2-bar diatonic melody in the key of B major or E natural minor, starting on the root note or the 5th. Candidates may sing in any octave. The melody may contain half notes, dotted half notes, quarter notes, dotted quarter notes, eighth notes, dotted eighth notes and sixteenth notes and will contain rests. The tempo will be 90bpm.
• Process: The test will be played twice, each time preceded by a 4-beat count in. There will be a short gap after each playthrough. After the gap following the second playthrough candidates will be given a vocal count in, after which they should play the melody back to the drum backing.

Test 2: Harmony Vocals

• Requirements: The examiner will play a 4-bar melody. Candidates will be asked to harmonise the melody a diatonic 3rd or 4th above, using the same rhythm and lyrics. The melody will be based on diatonic chords. The tempo will be 90–130bpm.
• Process: Candidates will be asked whether they would like a higher-pitched test or a lower-pitched test. The higher-pitched test will be in A major or E minor (Option 1), the lower-pitched test in E major or B minor (Option 2). They will be given the lyrics for their test. The test will be played twice, each time preceded by the root note and a 4-beat count in. There will be a short gap after each playthrough. After the gap following the second playthrough candidates will be given a vocal count in, after which they should sing their harmony line. The length of time available after the second playthrough is pre-recorded on the audio track so the vocal count in may begin while the candidate is still practising.

General Musicianship Questions

Candidates will be asked five questions. Three of these will be music knowledge questions, based on any one of the pieces performed in the exam, the fourth will be about improvisation, and the fifth will be about knowledge of the candidate’s own voice or the microphone. Candidates can use brief demonstrations to support their verbal explanations.

Part 1: General Music Knowledge
There will be three music knowledge questions in relation to one of the pieces performed in the exam. Candidates will be asked which piece they would like to be asked about. If the candidate’s copy of the chosen piece contains extensive handwritten notes the examiner may either use their own version of the score as the basis for the questions or they may request that candidates select a different piece.

Candidates may be asked to identify:

• Identify and explain any two sections of notation
• Identify and explain any interval up to a octave between two adjacent notes (including stating major, minor or perfect)

Part 2: Improvisation
Candidates will be asked to briefly describe and demonstrate their approach to how they would improvise any part of the song, making reference to melody, rhythm, phrasing, dynamics and expression. Candidates can choose the part of the song.

Part 3: Knowledge of the Voice and the Microphone
There will be one question about the candidate’s knowledge of their voice or the microphone, chosen by the examiner from the list below. Candidates may be asked:

• What type of exercise might you use to practise ‘flipping between registers’, including the pitches you would use in the exercise for your voice?
• Can you give two examples of vocal effects that you might employ while singing in a rock style?
• Can you explain the difference between ‘warm-ups’ and ‘technical practice’, including one example of the type of exercise used for each?
• What equalization settings might you use to correct a singer with a very ‘nasal’ sound?

Performance Pieces

Candidates must prepare a total of three pieces for a Grade Exam and five pieces for a Performance Certificate.

The ten songs at grade 8 are:

Featured Repertoire:

• Beyoncé – I Care
• Andra Day – Rise Up
• Sam Smith – Writing’s on the Wall
• Keala Settle – This is Me (from the Greatest Showman)
• Whitney Houston – I Have Nothing
• Skunk Anansie – Weak
• Ella Fitzgerald / Chaka Khan – Night in Tunisia
• The Killers – When You Were Young
• Seal – Kiss from a Rose
• Ray Charles – A Song for You

Technical Exercises

Please note: The following information relates to the new 2021 Vocals syllabus launched in September 2021. For exam information relating to the 2014 – 2021 Vocals syllabus, please download the syllabus specification at the base of this page!

There are five groups of technical exercises at this grade: Scales, Arpeggios, Intervals, Backing Vocals and Stylistic Studies. The scale, arpeggio and intervals are to be performed to a click track, the backing vocals and stylistic study to backing tracks. Unless specified otherwise, the exercises may be performed using any vocal sound except humming or whistling.

GROUP A – Scales

Candidates are to perform the following scale, as written in the grade book:

Scale: Chromatic scale
Starting note: Candidate’s choice
Range: 1 octave
Tempo: 100bpm
Accompaniment: Click track

The examiner will ask the candidate which starting note they have chosen (the examiner can play starting notes in the range A3–G#4, but candidates may sing in any octave). Candidates will hear the starting note, followed by a 1-bar count in, before performing the test to the metronome click.

Group B: Arpeggios

Candidates are to perform the following arpeggio, as written in the grade book:

Arpeggio: Diminished arpeggio
Starting note: Candidates Choice
Range: 1 octave
Tempo: 100bpm
Accompaniment: Click track

The examiner will ask the candidate which starting note they have chosen (the examiner can play starting notes in the range A3–G#4, but candidates may sing in any octave). Candidates will hear the starting note, followed by a 1-bar count in, before performing the test to the metronome click.

Group C – Intervals

Candidates are to prepare both of the following interval sequences, as written in the grade book. The examiner will ask for one of them to be performed in the exam:

Major 7ths, minor 7ths and octaves
Starting note: Candidate’s choice
Tempo: 90bpm
Accompaniment: Click track

Major 3rds and minor 3rds
Starting note: Candidate’s choice
Tempo: 90bpm
Accompaniment: Click track

The examiner will ask the candidate which starting note they have chosen (the examiner can play starting notes in the range A3–G#4, but candidates may sing in any octave). Candidates will hear the starting note, followed by a 1-bar count in, before performing the test to the metronome click.

Group D – Backing Vocals

Candidates are to perform one of the two backing vocals exercises given in the grade book. Each exercise in the book has three notated vocal parts — candidates must prepare all of these for their chosen exercise. The examiner will ask which exercise the candidate has prepared (Exercise 1 or Exercise 2). They will then select one of the vocal parts for the candidate to perform (the other two notated parts will be included on the backing track). Candidates will hear the root note, followed by a 4-beat count in, before performing the test to the backing track.

Group E – Stylistic Studies

Candidates are to perform one of the eight stylistic studies given in the grade book. The studies are divided into the four distinct genre groups below, with two options for each genre group:

• Pop and Musical Theatre
• Soul and Contemporary R&B
• Jazz and Blues
• Rock and Indie

The examiner will ask which genre group and which study the candidate has prepared (study 1 or study 2). Candidates may sing in any octave but the studies cannot be transposed to a different key. Candidates will hear the root note, followed by a 4-beat count in, before performing the test to the backing track. Note that the choice of genre group for this test will determine the style of the Quick Study Piece the examiner will select in the exam.

Supporting Tests

Please note: The following information relates to the new 2021 Vocals syllabus launched in September 2021. For exam information relating to the 2014 – 2021 Vocals syllabus, please download the syllabus specification at the base of this page!

Quick Study Piece

Requirements

Candidates will be given a short previously unseen piece to perform, the style of which will be one of the two from the genre group that candidates chose for their stylistic study. The piece will be 12 bars long, in any major or minor key up to four sharps/flats, covering a range of up to a 10th. In bars 1 to 4 candidates will sing the written melody and lyrics; in bars 5 to 8 candidates will improvise a variation on the first 4 bars, developing the melody and lyrics as they wish; in bars 9 to 12 candidates will improvise a melody using any vocal sound except humming or whistling. The tempo will be 70–160bpm.

Preparation

Candidates will be asked whether they would like a higher-pitched test or a lower-pitched test. Candidates will by played a full mix version of the track, including the notated parts. They will then be given 3 minutes to practise, after which they will perform the test. Before the practice time begins, candidates will be given the choice of a metronome click throughout or having a 4-beat count in at the beginning. Whichever option candidates choose, the practice time will start with the examiner playing the root note. The root note will be played again halfway through the practice time.

Performance

After the practice time, the backing track will be played twice more with the notated parts now absent. The first time is for candidates to rehearse and the second time to perform the final version for the exam. Only the performance over the final playthrough will be assessed. Each playthrough will begin with the root note and a 4-beat count in. The backing track is continuous throughout, so once the first playthrough has finished, the root note and count in of the second playthrough will start immediately.

Ear Tests

Candidates will be given both of the following ear tests, examples of which are included in the grade book:

• Test 1: Melodic Recall
• Test 2: Harmony Vocals

Test 1: Melodic Recall

• Requirements: The examiner will play a melody. Candidates will then sing back the melody to a drum backing, using any vocal sound except humming or whistling. The melody will be a 2-bar diatonic melody in the key of B major or E natural minor, starting on the root note, 3rd or 5th. Candidates may sing in any octave. The melody may contain half notes, dotted half notes, quarter notes, dotted quarter notes, eighth notes, dotted eighth notes and sixteenth notes and will contain rests. The tempo will be 90bpm.
• Process: The test will be played twice, each time preceded by a 4-beat count in. There will be a short gap after each playthrough. After the gap following the second playthrough candidates will be given a vocal count in, after which they should play the melody back to the drum backing.

Test 2: Harmony Vocals

• Requirements: The examiner will play a 4-bar melody. Candidates will be asked to harmonise the melody a diatonic 3rd or 4th above, using the same rhythm and lyrics. The melody will be based on diatonic chords (chords I, IV, V and VIm). The tempo will be 90–140bpm.
• Process: Candidates will be asked whether they would like a higher-pitched test or a lower-pitched test. The higher-pitched test will be in A major or B minor (Option 1), the lower-pitched test in D major or E minor (Option 2). They will be given the lyrics for their test. The test will be played three times, each time preceded by the root note and a 4-beat count in. There will be a short gap after each playthrough. After the gap following the third playthrough candidates will be given a vocal count in, after which they should sing their harmony line. The length of time available after the third playthrough is pre-recorded on the audio track so the vocal count in may begin while the candidate is still practising.

General Musicianship Questions

Candidates will be asked five questions. Three of these will be music knowledge questions, based on any one of the pieces performed in the exam, the fourth will be about improvisation, and the fifth will be about knowledge of the candidate’s own voice or the microphone. Candidates can use brief demonstrations to support their verbal explanations.

Part 1: General Music Knowledge
There will be three music knowledge questions in relation to one of the pieces performed in the exam. Candidates will be asked which piece they would like to be asked about. If the candidate’s copy of the chosen piece contains extensive handwritten notes the examiner may either use their own version of the score as the basis for the questions or they may request that candidates select a different piece.

Candidates may be asked to identify:

• Identify and explain any two sections of notation
• Identify and explain any interval up to a octave between two adjacent notes (including stating major, minor or perfect)

Part 2: Improvisation
Candidates will be asked to briefly describe and demonstrate their approach to how they would improvise any part of the song, making reference to melody, rhythm, phrasing, dynamics and expression. Candidates can choose the part of the song.

Part 3: Knowledge of the Voice and the Microphone
There will be one question about the candidate’s knowledge of their voice or the microphone, chosen by the examiner from the list below. Candidates may be asked:

• Can you name three effective resonators for singing?
• Can you explain the difference between ‘aspirate onset’ and ‘glottal onset’?
• Which exercises might be safe to perform when your voice is tired or you have a sore throat?
• How can you balance your sound on microphone when switching between chest voice (low register) and head/falsetto voice (high register)?