Sight-reading
Blind candidates
Blind candidates may choose between one of the two options listed below. Please write one of the following codes in the access code box on the entry form.
B Braille memory test
This test consists of a short passage transcribed into Braille which will be given to the candidate to study, with a time allowance as indicated in ‘Additional time allowances’. The candidate will then be asked to play the test from memory immediately following the preparation time.
R Aural repetition test
This test consists of a short passage played three times on the piano by the examiner, who will first play and name the key-chord and starting note, and indicate the tempo before asking the candidate to repeat the passage on his/her instrument. Candidates will be given a short amount of time to try out the test following the second and final playings.
Subject-specific information
Please refer to the specimen tests for more detailed information.
Organ
At Grades 6–8, candidates will be required to repeat the test transposed up or down a tone or semitone, as requested by the examiner.
Horn and Trumpet
Candidates will not be required to do any transposition tests at Grades 6–8.
Singing candidates
Aural repetition test
This test will be accompanied by the examiner who will play the vocal line, together with its accompaniment, three times. Candidates can sing the vocal line to ‘la’ or any other vowel sound.
Braille memory test
Candidates may opt to attempt this section as a memory test or read directly from the Braille, and the examiner should be informed which option they have chosen at the start of the exam. The Braille copy will contain, in addition to the vocal line, a sketch of the piano introduction and a brief description of the examiner’s accompaniment.
Candidates reading directly from the Braille will be required to sing the vocal line to ‘la’ or any other vowel sound, and read the Braille score at the same time. They will therefore be given only 2 minutes at all grades to study the test.
Candidates wishing to memorize the test will be expected to incorporate the lyrics, and will be given the same additional time allowance as all other subjects.
Partially sighted candidates
Partially sighted candidates may request sight-reading tests in large notation or modified staff notation. They may read and play the test at the same time, or alternatively they may opt to memorize the test before performing it. Please write one of the following codes in the access code box on the entry form.
L Large notation sight-reading test The standard enlargement of tests is normally 200%. Standard large notation specimen tests may be obtained from Allegro Music.
M Large notation memory test Candidates will be given additional time as indicated in ‘Additional time allowances’.
P Modified staff notation sight-reading test If modified staff notation is required for exam tests, a covering letter and a sample must be submitted at the time of entry, stating the relevant specifications.
T Modified staff notation memory test Candidates will be given additional time as stated in ‘Additional time allowances’. Please send a sample and letter as above.