I did my Grade 5 violin exam last Wednesday with ABRSM, and I was really impressed with the examiner. I don't know his name but he was really nice and he made me feel really comfortable and not at all "scared" like I have been previous years. I was even more suprised when he used my name and at the end of the exam wished me a good day.
I was so impressed .

Well all examiners are there to help you. That's why the Associated Board choose the best of the best!

Although there are times when you feel bad, you can always talk to them. And if you feel great, you can always play better. Have a joke or two to settle things down.

It's great to hear that!
Good luck with your results

So pleased it was a good experience - it's really encouraging for others (especially anyone who has exams coming up ) to read about that, so thanks for posting, Amy.

Hope your results are great!

Glad it was a good experience for you...

My personal experience of examiners has been generally positive over the years - the majority of exams I've taken, they have been friendly and more than willing to accommodate any potential nerves etc...!

Yes - I think there's been quite a change in attitude from most examiners in the last few years. They don't seem nearly so remote or potentially scarey to a candidate as they used to. Alternatively, I'm getting older and just like policemen seem younger, examiners seem less scarey!

Actually, I think they are much more "human" now. It's a good sign.....

All is good in the world of examining!

I see you're in Aus, Amy. No doub the sun did the examainer some good

Well not all the time... Some can still be pretty haunting with that straight face of theirs...