Hi,

I am a 14 year old guitarist, I have been playing since i was about 7 and was taught the basics by my dad but have been self taught other than that..

I am now interested in taking some exams to get grades.. I was just wondering, what different types of exams are there, and do i HAVE to have a teach to be able to enter?

And also, how can i find out the syllabus for the exams?



Thanks in advance,

Nathan.

Sure you can take guitar exams with ABRSM
This is the link to all the details and syllabus

http://www.abrsm.org/resources/allGuitar0506.pdf

The system is the same as other instruments - gde 1-8 etc but it will be easier for you to read the details yourself.

You don't have to have a teacher to enter. You can enter yourself. Just make sure that you study the exam requirements carefully. It is all quite straightforward.

Have fun

Thanks pal..

Are there different exams?? Or just one guitar exam? I have seen http://www.registryofguitartutors.co.uk/ex...c/egdipsyll.htm and the Rock exam (cant remember exact name) but im confused about them all...

Whats the difference? How many different types of exams are there?

You need to get an adult to enter you (over 18). But other than that, good luck!

Likewaht musicman said. Look at it carefully, makesure you don't leave any scales out and make sure you can play them correctly.

Nathan:

ABRSM only does what might be called "classical" guitar exams - there are other boards (notably Rock School) who do jazz/rock guitar exams.

As others have said, do read the ABRSM syllabus carefully to make sure you have all the bits prepared (eg pieces, scales and have done some work on sight-reading and aural too). Remember, you can only go to Grade 5 on the guitar before you must have taken grade 5 theory, practical musicianship (or a jazz exam - not available on guitar) to proceed further.

You can certainly read about the guitar syllabus on-line and you can be entered on-line (but an adult must do that until you are 18) but you may also find it helpful to pick up a paper copy of the syllabus and general regulations when you are next near a music supplier.

Best of luck!

Thanks everyone..

So there are two exams: ABRSM & Rockschool exam & this one (clicky)
Right?

And, I think I will start going guitar exams and state that I want to take these exams... is that advisable?

Nathan

There are quite a few exam boards which offer instrumental exams (for guitar and for other instruments). The ABRSM, Trinity & Guildhall, Rockschool, London College of Music and so the list goes on.

This is where you really need the help of a teacher (or someone who knows how you play and a bit about the exam structure) to advise you on which would be the most appropriate and what sort of standard you are.

It's impossible for us to know just from your messages because we cannot hear you play and we don't know what style you play best and/or want exam qualifications in.

I would suggest getting yourself one or two lessons with a guitar teacher (appropriate to the style you like playing) and seek some professional help.

It is possible to prepare yourself for an exam but if you're very new to the whole idea it might be best to get some help, at least in these early stages.

Best wishes