Choosing a music exam board can be confusing. When you or your child first think about grades, you quickly meet a jumble of initials: ABRSM, Trinity, LCM, RGT, RSL. Each one is a music exam board, they all run Grades 1 to 8, and they are all properly regulated. So, does it matter which one you choose? A little, yes. However, each board suits different instruments, different styles of music and different kinds of learner. AS Music School is a recognised exam centre for RGT, LCM and RSL, and we enter students for ABRSM and Trinity too. Instead, here is how each music exam board compares.
First, what they have in common
- All offer graded exams from beginner level up to Grade 8, with diplomas beyond.
- All are regulated qualifications, recognised by schools, colleges and universities.
- Grades 6, 7 and 8 from any of them carry UCAS points.
- A Grade 5 from one board is broadly the same standard as a Grade 5 from another.
So you are not choosing between “proper” and “lesser” exams. Rather, you are choosing the best fit.
ABRSM
ABRSM is the oldest and best known board, and many parents took its exams themselves. ABRSM is rooted in classical music and is most popular for piano, strings, woodwind, brass and singing. In addition, exams include pieces, scales and arpeggios, sight-reading and aural tests. Some things to know:
- to take Grade 6 or above, you first need to pass Grade 5 theory (or an equivalent).
- You will need to buy separate books for the pieces, scales, sight reading and aural; four books per grade.
Best for: classical players who want a traditional, thorough grounding.
Trinity College London
Trinity is equally well regarded, and it has a reputation for flexibility. For example, students get more say over the supporting tests, choosing options that play to their strengths, and there is no theory requirement before the higher grades. Trinity also runs a separate Rock & Pop syllabus. Best for: students who want a classical exam with more choice in it.
LCM (London College of Music)
The University of West London awards LCM exams, which cover a very wide range: classical, jazz, pop, musical theatre and more. In addition, the repertoire lists are broad, and there are options with fewer supporting tests for students who mainly want to perform. The repertoire lists are also the most diverse in terms of the composers. Best for: students who want variety, including musical theatre singers and those who do not fit neatly into “classical”.
RGT (Registry of Guitar Tutors)
RGT is the specialist for guitar. It’s exams are run in partnership with LCM and cover electric, acoustic, classical and bass guitar. Because guitarists write the syllabus for guitarists, it tests the things guitar players actually do: chords, rhythm playing, lead playing and improvisation, not just set pieces. Best for: guitarists and bass players of any style.
RSL (Rockschool)
RSL made its name as the contemporary board, built around rock, pop, funk and metal. For example, students play along to professional backing tracks, so the pieces sound like real songs. As a result, it is the natural choice for drums, electric guitar, bass, vocals and keys. Best for: drummers, band musicians and anyone who wants their exam pieces to sound like the music they listen to.
RSL Classical
RSL is no longer only about rock and pop. Its newer RSL Classical syllabus offers graded exams in classical piano and classical violin, bringing the same modern approach to classical playing. In addition, the repertoire is deliberately broad, placing the well-known composers alongside film music, contemporary pieces and music by composers that traditional lists often leave out. Students who learn both styles can stay with one board, and because we are an RSL exam centre, they can sit these grades on site. Best for: classical pianists and violinists who want a fresher, more varied repertoire than the traditional boards offer.
Quick comparison
| Board | Main style | Especially good for |
|---|---|---|
| ABRSM | Classical | Piano, strings, classical singing |
| Trinity | Classical, plus Rock & Pop | Students who want flexibility |
| LCM | Classical to contemporary | Wide repertoire, musical theatre |
| RGT | All guitar styles | Guitar and bass |
| RSL (Rockschool) | Rock and pop | Drums, electric guitar, bass, vocals |
| RSL Classical | Classical, with a modern repertoire | Classical piano and violin |
For the full syllabuses, see ABRSM, Trinity College London, LCM Examinations and RSL Awards.
How to choose a music exam board
- Start with the instrument and style. A classical pianist and a rock drummer want different things.
- Think about how you learn. If sight-reading fills you with dread, a board with more choice may suit you better.
- Ask your tutor. They know your playing and the current syllabuses.
- Consider where you will sit the exam. Playing in a familiar room on a familiar instrument helps enormously with nerves.
Why sitting your exam on site matters
Because we are an exam centre for RGT, LCM and RSL, most of our students take their grades here in Woodseats rather than at a venue they have never seen. For example, pianists play the pianos they have their lessons on. As a result, there is one less thing to worry about on the day. Read more about exam preparation at AS Music School.
And remember: exams are optional
Grades are a great motivator for some students, but a source of dread for others. After all, plenty of excellent musicians have never taken one. If you would like to talk through which music exam board suits you for piano, guitar, drums or any other instrument, call 0114 274 8939, email info@asmusicschool.com or book your free first lesson.