Associated Board Examinations

The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music was established in 1889 as one examinations body to conduct local music examinations and to help improve standards of musical education in Practical subjects and in Theory.

The Board offers an examination scheme suitable for pupils at different stages of ability in keyboard, strings, woodwind, brass, percussion, singing, practical musicianship, instrumental and vocal ensembles and in theory. Progress may be followed in stages of gradually increasing difficulty from Grade 1 to Grade 8, and then through the Advanced Certificate to the LRSM diploma.

The Board offers an examination scheme suitable for pupils at different stages of ability in keyboard, strings, woodwind, brass, percussion, singing, practical musicianship, instrumental and vocal ensembles and in theory. Progress may be followed in stages of gradually increasing difficulty from Grade 1 to Grade 8, and then through the Advanced Certificate to the LRSM diploma.

Since examinations are conducted in many other countries to the same standard, the Associated Board examinations have both national and international recognition.

The Honorary Local Representative for the South Eastern Music Centre is Mr Lawrence Neill. Examinations are available three times a year: in February-March (entries by 31st December), in June (entries by 31st March), and in November-December (entries by 8th September).

Practical examinations are marked out of 150, with 100 required to achieve a Pass. Candidates scoring 130 or more pass with Distinction, and those scoring 120 or more pass with Merit. All Advanced Teaching Service students should aim to pass with at least Merit. Syllabuses for each subject are available on request.

All pupils and students should take an Associated Board examination from time to time as advised by tutors. It is not necessary to take each individual grade. Examination grade is however one of the factors considered when students apply for re-enrolment and are placed in orchestras and bands. Members' examination grades should always be commensurate with their age and experience.

Examination entries should be made in conjunction with study tutors and/or school music teachers, with reference to the conditions and provisions required by the ABRSM in their current syllabuses and Regulations and Information booklet.

Full payment of fees should accompany each examination entry. (see entry fees below)

Examination results and mark sheets for entries submitted by schools will be forwarded to each school for distribution to candidates. Under no circumstances can results be divulged by the Music Centre over the telephone. Candidates or parents may call in person for this information or elect to receive it through the post by forwarding a stamped addressed envelope.