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Copyright 2014 Rock School Ltd Vocals Syllabus Guide 2012-2015 | 2

Introduction and Overview ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 3

Grade 1............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 6

Grade 2............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 8

Grade 3.......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 10

Grade 4.......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 13

Grade 5.......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 16

Grade 6.......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 19

Grade 7.......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 21

Grade 8.......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 23

Assessment Criteria ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 25

Exam Regulations ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 29


Welcome to the Rockschool 2012-2015 syllabus for Vocals. This syllabus guide is designed to give teachers, learners and candidates practical information on the graded examinations run by Rockschool.

The Rockschool website, www.rockschool.co.uk has detailed information on all aspects of our examinations, including examination regulations, detailed marking schemes and assessment criteria as well as notated and audio examples to help you prepare for the examination. This Syllabus Guide covers the following examinations:

Graded Examinations Grade 1- 8

Performance Certificates Grade 1- 8

Please note that there is no Debut exam in this series

Examinations

Rockschool offers two types of graded music examination; Grade Examinations and Performance Certificate.

GRADE EXAMINATIONS

Grade Examinations are available at Grade 1 - 8 and consist of the following elements:

3 Performance Pieces: Grade 1- 8

Technical Exercises: Grade 1- 8

Unaccompanied Piece: Grade 1 Grade 5

Quick Study Piece: Grade 6 - 8

Ear Tests: Grade 1- 8

General Musicianship Questions: Grade 1- 8 These elements fall into two categories: Prepared work and Unprepared work. Prepared work consists of the three pieces, Technical Exercises and Unaccompanied Piece. Unprepared work consists of Ear Tests and General Musicianship Questions and Quick Study Piece at Grades 6 - 8. Candidates may choose any pieces from the Vocals exam books (male or female), the supplementary list from this guide or the supplementary list from the Rockschool website.

PERFORMANCE CERTIFICATES

Performance Certificates are available at Grade 1 - 8 and consist of the following elements:

5 performance Pieces



Examination Structure

The examination structure for the grade examinations is shown below:

Grade 1-5 Grade 6-8

Technical Exercises Technical Exercises 4 of the General Musicianship Questions Ear Tests Ear Tests Quick Study Piece Performance Pieces Performance Pieces Unaccompanied Piece General Musicianship Questions Final General Musicianship Question

At Rockschool we believe that examinations should build towards the work which students typically excel at: the performances. With this in mind, we have ordered the vocal examinations in such a way that the exams lead towards the performances as the final part of the exam.

Examination Timings

Examination Timings for Grade Exams & Performance Certificates

Grade 1: 25 minutes

Grade 2: 25 minutes

Grade 3: 30 minutes

Grade 4: 30 minutes

Grade 5: 30 minutes

Grade 6: 40 minutes

Grade 7: 40 minutes

Grade 8: 40 minutes

Repertoire Choices

Set pieces are defined as any piece from the Vocal Grade book, the supplementary list at the back of the Vocals Grade book or the 2012 supplementary list found on www.rockschool.co.uk Free choice pieces would be defined as any song chosen that does not feature on these lists.

Free Choice Pieces

Candidates are able to play a number of free choice pieces in the examination:

Grade Examinations: 2 free choice pieces

Performance Certificates: 3 free choice pieces Criteria for free choice pieces can be found by visiting the website. https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/gradedmusicexams/additionalinformation/resources/freechoicepieces/ If there is any doubt or questions about the appropriateness of the chosen piece, you can email it to [email protected] and our Rockschool Syllabus Advisor will assess the song chosen. Please make sure to attach a scanned copy of the score for the advisor to assess.

Use of Microphones

At grades 1-3 the use of microphone is optional, although candidates may perform with microphone if they feel comfortable. From

grade 4 the use of microphone is obligatory for all pieces and from grade 5 for all pieces and technical work.

Unprepared work may be given without. From grade 6 all work is to be given with microphone including unprepared work. The

candidate will be required to provide their own microphone for the examination.

http://www.rockschool.co.uk/https://www.rockschool.co.uk/qualifications/gradedmusicexams/additionalinformation/resources/freechoicepieces/mailto:[email protected]


Memory

Rockschool considers that sense of performance and communication is a vital area of the examination. At grade 4 one piece is to be

given from memory. At grade 5 two pieces are to be given and from grade 6 all pieces are to be given from memory.

Marking Scheme

The following marking scheme applies to the Rockschool vocal grades as shown below:

Grades 1-5 (marks) Grades 6-8 (marks)

Technical Exercises (15) Technical Exercises (15) General Musicianship Questions (5) Aural Tests (10) Aural Tests (10) Quick Study Piece (10) Performance Pieces (20 per piece) Performance Pieces (20 per piece) Unaccompanied Piece (10) General Musicianship Questions (5) All Rockschool exams are marked out of 100 and the pass mark is 60%. Rockschool awards merit certificates for candidates achieving

marks 74-90% (75-90% for Performance Certificates) and distinction certificates for candidates achieving any mark above 90%.


At this grade there will be an emphasis on notes, rhythm and intonation. Pieces will generally be within a limited range and only require a basic control of tone. Pieces will be of a length appropriate for the grade and there will be no requirement for vocal improvisation.

The use of a microphone is not mandatory but candidates may use one if they feel it will enhance their performance.

Grade Exam

Prepared work: candidates will need to perform their 3 chosen pieces and then their unaccompanied piece. They will also be asked to demonstrate a selection of technical exercises including a rhythmic test, scales, intervals and, phrasing and dynamics. Unprepared work: candidates will be asked five general musicianship questions, four will be general theory questions and the final

one will be based around one of the performance pieces. There are also two ear tests which incorporate an element of sight recognition.

Exam Structure

The Grade 1 exam lasts 25 minutes and will be taken in the following order:

Technical Exercises

4 of the General Musicianship Questions

Ear Tests

Performance Pieces

Unaccompanied Piece

Final General Musicianship Question

PIECES

Performance Pieces

At Grade 1 each piece is designed so the candidate can remain focused and concentrate on the requirements of notation, values, evenness of sound, technical control and sync.

Unaccompanied Piece

Candidates are asked to perform an excerpt of a song unaccompanied. This exercise is designed to test a candidates ability to hold a line and to show stylistic awareness in some variation and improvisation to the line. The unaccompanied piece is performed between the second and third songs of the performance pieces. Candidates should prepare 16 bars of music with simple variation to the vocal line in either notes values and/or pitch. This should be applied to only a few notes. The candidate at these grades should be looking to maintain intonation as a primary consideration. The excerpt chosen can be from any song the candidate wishes including one of the 3 accompanied pieces.

TECHNICAL WORK

At Grade 1 there are four groups of technical work.

Rhythm

Tempo: 160 bpm in 4/4 time Performed to a backing track candidates must perform their prepared16 bar rhythmic exercise after an 8 bar intro.

Scales

Tempo: 100 bpm in 4/4 time Performed to a backing track candidates may start on any note from A to E around middle C. Candidates must be prepared to

perform the major scale in both of the two rhythms in their Rockschool exam book.


Intervals

Tempo: 84 bpm Part A

Candidates will be asked to pitch a major 3rd above the notes I, IV and V of their chosen major key (see scale above). The examiner will play the note for four beats and the candidate will then be asked to hold each 3rd note for a further four beats. Part B Candidates will be played 2 notes making a perfect 5th below the notes I, IV and V of their chosen major key (see scale above). The examiner will play both notes for four beats and the candidate will then be asked to hold their note for a further four beats.

Phrasing and Dynamics

Key: C Major Tempo: 100 bpm Prepared exercise performed to a backing track, candidates may use any vocal sound they consider appropriate. Candidates will perform the 22 bar exercise they have learnt from their Rockschool exam book. Singing simple phrases made up of half, quarter and eighth notes and rests, staccato and legato, paying attention to the marked changes in dynamics. Range limited to a fifth.

EAR TESTS

Rhythmic Identification

Candidates will be given a set of three rhythmic examples that are two bars long each and made up of half, quarter and eighth notes. The examiner will play one of the examples and candidates will be asked to identify the correct answer from the printed examples.

Rhythmic Development

Tempo: 112 bpm Candidates will be asked to clap back the rhythm they have just identified and to continue for a further two bars in a simple/repetitive manner.

GENERAL MUSICIANSHIP QUESTIONS

In this part of the exam you will be asked five questions. Four of these questions will be about general music knowledge and the fifth question will be asked about one of your chosen songs.

Music Knowledge

In Grade 1 you will be asked to identify:

Dynamic markings

Dynamic meanings

Note values

Time signatures

Song Knowledge

Candidates will be asked to select one of their chosen songs and be asked a question regarding meaning and interpretation of the lyrics.

Performance Certificate

The Grade 1 exam lasts 25 minutes and the candidate chooses to sing 5 pieces only.


At this grade there will be an emphasis on basic style awareness in the use of tone and solid voice. There will be limited use of head voice. Pieces will be of slightly longer duration with an extended range and the use of intervallic leaps. The use of a microphone is not mandatory but candidates may use one if they feel it will enhance their performance

Grade Exam

Prepared work: candidates will need to perform their 3 chosen pieces and then their unaccompanied piece. They will also be asked to demonstrate a selection of technical exercises including a rhythmic test, scales, intervals and, phrasing and dynamics. Unprepared work: candidates will be asked five general musicianship questions, four will be general theory questions and the final one will be based around one of the performance pieces. There are also two ear tests which incorporate an element of sight

recognition.

Exam Structure


Technical Exercises


Ear Tests

Performance Pieces

Unaccompanied Piece


PIECES

Performance Pieces


Unaccompanied Piece

Candidates are asked to perform an excerpt of a song unaccompanied. This exercise is designed to test a candidates ability to hold a line and to show stylistic awareness in some variation and improvisation to the line. The unaccompanied piece is performed between the second and third songs of the performance pieces. Candidates should prepare 16 bars of music with simple variation to the vocal line in either notes values and/or pitch. This should be applied to only a few notes. The candidate at these grades should be looking to maintain intonation as a primary consideration. The excerpt chosen can be from any song the candidate wishes including one of the 3 accompanied pieces.

TECHNICAL WORK


Rhythm

Tempo: 160 bpm in 4/4 time Performed to a backing track candidates must perform their prepared16 bar rhythmic exercise after an 8 bar intro.

Scales

Tempo: 100 bpm in 4/4 time Performed to a backing track candidates may start on any note from A to E around middle C. Candidates will be asked to perform a selection from the major, natural or harmonic minor of their chosen scale in either of the two rhythms in their Rockschool exam book.


Intervals

Tempo: 84 bpm Part A

Candidates will be asked to pitch a major, minor 3rd or perfect 5th above the notes I, IV and V of their chosen key (see above). The examiner will play the note for four beats and the candidate will then be asked to hold their requested note for a further four beats. Part B Candidates will be played 2 notes making a perfect 5th with the root notes being I, IV and V of their chosen key. The examiner will play both notes for four beats and the candidate will then be asked to hold the root note for a further four beats.


Key: C Minor Tempo: 140 bpm Prepared exercise performed to a backing track, candidates may use any vocal sound they consider appropriate. Candidates will perform the 28 bar exercise they have learnt from their Rockschool exam book. Singing simple phrases made up of half, quarter and eighth notes and rests staccato and legato, paying attention to the marked changes in dynamics. Some simple syncopation. Range up to an octave.

EAR TESTS


Candidates will be given a set of three rhythmic examples that are two bars long each and made up of half, quarter, eighth and dotted notes. The examiner will play one of the examples and candidates will be asked to identify the correct answer from the printed examples.

Rhythmic Development

Tempo: 112 bpm Candidates will be asked to clap back the rhythm they have just identified and to continue for a further two bars in a simple/repetitive manner.



Music Knowledge

In Grade 2 you may be asked to identify any of the following: (4 questions)

Dynamic markings

Dynamic meanings

Note values

Time signatures

Pitch names

Crescendo/Decrescendo

Rest values

Song Knowledge

Candidates will be asked to select one of their chosen songs and be asked a question regarding meaning and interpretation of the lyrics and music.




At this grade there will be an increasing level of stylistic awareness with employment of suitable technique to a basic level. There will be solid use of chest voice and a limited requirement for solid voice. Pieces will be of a suitable length to demonstrate appropriate technique and concentration with an extended range and occasional use of wide intervals.

The use of a microphone is not mandatory but candidates may use one if they feel it will enhance their performance.

Grade Exam



Exam Structure


Technical Exercises


Ear Tests

Performance Pieces

Unaccompanied Piece


PIECES

Performance Pieces


Unaccompanied Piece

Candidates are asked to perform an excerpt of a song unaccompanied. This exercise is designed to test a candidates ability to hold a line and to show stylistic awareness in some variation and improvisation to the line. The unaccompanied piece is performed between the second and third songs of the performance pieces. Candidates should prepare 16 bars of music and at this grade should show some attempts at stylistic awareness in their performance. Approximately 25% of the piece should show development of improvisation by including some simple ornamentation to notes and variation in the line. Candidates may also choose to apply further stylistic interpretation to the piece if they feel confident.

The excerpt chosen can be from any song the candidate wishes including one of the 3 accompanied pieces.

TECHNICAL WORK


Rhythm

Tempo: 110 bpm in 4/4 time Performed to a backing track candidates must perform their prepared16 bar rhythmic exercise after a 4 bar intro.


Scales

Tempo: 108 bpm in 4/4 time Performed to a backing track candidates may start on any note from A to E around middle C. Candidates will be asked to perform a

selection from the major, natural minor, harmonic minor and major pentatonic of their chosen scale in either of the two rhythms in their Rockschool exam book.

Intervals

Tempo: 84 bpm

Part A The examiner will play a root note of I, IV or V of your chosen key for four beats. Candidates will then be asked to pitch the major or minor 3rd, perfect 4th and perfect 5th in ascending consecutive steps. Part B The examiner will play a perfect 5th chord with root note of I, IV or V of your chosen key for four beats. Candidates will then be asked to pitch the major or minor 3rd, major 2nd and root note in descending consecutive steps.


Key: Bb Minor for Female Voice, C Minor for Male Voice Tempo: 150 bpm Prepared exercise performed to a backing track, candidates may use any vocal sound they consider appropriate. Candidates will perform the 36 bar exercise they have learnt from their Rockschool exam book. Singing phrases made up of half, quarter and eighth notes and rests staccato and legato, paying attention to the marked changes in dynamics and more sophisticated syncopations. Range up to a tenth.

EAR TESTS


Key: C Major Tempo: 112 bpm

Candidates will be given a set of three rhythmic examples that are two bars long each and made up of half, quarter, eighth and dotted notes. The examiner will play one of the examples and candidates will be asked to identify the correct answer from the printed examples. The examiner will then give a new two bar melody in the same rhythm as test 1, melody ascending and in step only to a fifth. Candidates will be asked to sing back the melody and continue to improvise for a further two bars, returning to the tonic. The melody will begin on the tonic. This melody will not be one of the printed examples.

Melodic Development

Key: C Major Tempo: 90-100 bpm The candidate will be required to improvise over a simple two chord major key sequence repeated over eight bars. The candidate should use the major key for their improvisation and pay attention to rhythmic repetition and shape.



Music Knowledge


Dynamic markings

Dynamic meanings

Note values

Time signatures

Pitch names (by bar and beat location)



Rest values

Identify intervals up to and including a third. Identification of interval type (i.e. major or minor) not required

Staccato marks/slurs

Song Knowledge

Candidates will be asked to select one of their chosen songs and will be asked some questions regarding meaning and interpretation of the lyrics and music.




At Grade 4 there will be demonstration of secure chest voice and the ability to move to head voice in a reliable manner. Pieces will require some ornamentation and improvisation to the given line to show a musical understanding. Range will be extended and there will be some use of consistent extended intervals.

One piece is to be memorised and the microphone used for all performance pieces.

Grade Exam



Exam Structure


Technical Exercises


Ear Tests

Performance Pieces

Unaccompanied Piece


PIECES

Performance Pieces

At Grade 4 the pieces will be of sufficient length to demonstrate developing stylistic awareness which will include appropriate tone production, awareness of rhythmic shifts, dynamics and phrasing.

Unaccompanied Piece

Candidates are asked to perform an excerpt of a song unaccompanied. This exercise is designed to test a candidates ability to hold a line and to show stylistic awareness in some variation and improvisation to the line. The unaccompanied piece is performed between the second and third songs of the performance pieces. Candidates should prepare 24 bars of music and should show distinct variation in the use of ornamentation and tempo. They should demonstrate some movement in register and give a sense of construction and shape to the line. The excerpt chosen can be from any song the candidate wishes including one of the 3 accompanied pieces.

TECHNICAL WORK


Rhythm

Tempo: 115bpm in 4/4 time Performed to a backing track candidates must perform their prepared16 bar rhythmic exercise after a 4 bar intro. This now includes further development of extended phrasing from earlier grades.


Scales

Tempo: 112bpm in 4/4 time Performed to a backing track candidates may start on any note from A to D. Candidates will be asked to perform a selection from

the major, natural minor, major pentatonic and minor pentatonic of their chosen key in either of the two rhythms in their Rockschool exam book.

Intervals

Tempo: 90 bpm

Part A The examiner will play a root note of I, IV or V of your chosen key for four beats. Candidates will then be asked to pitch the major or minor 3rd, perfect 4th and perfect 5th in ascending and descending consecutive steps back to the 3rd. Part B The examiner will play a note a perfect 5th chord above the root note of I, IV or V of your chosen key for four beats. Candidates will then be asked to pitch the root note ascending to the major or minor 3rd, pausing and then returning in descending consecutive steps to the root note.


Key: C# Minor for Female Voice, E Minor for Male Voice Tempo: 80bpm Prepared exercise performed to a backing track, candidates may use any vocal sound they consider appropriate. Candidates will perform the 19 bar exercise they have learnt from their Rockschool exam book. Singing phrases made up of half, quarter, eighth, sixteenth and dotted notes and rests. Emphasis on semiquaver articulation, with singers needing to pay attention to the marked changes in dynamics, more sophisticated syncopation and staccato and legato markings. Range up to a tenth.

EAR TESTS

Rhythmic and Melodic Identification

Key: C Major Tempo: 112 bpm

Candidates will be given a score sheet with three rhythmic and three melodic examples that are two bars long each made up of half, quarter, eighth and dotted notes. The examiner will play one of the rhythmic examples and candidates will be asked to identify the correct answer from the printed examples. The examiner will then ask the candidate to look at the melodic examples and identify which one corresponds to the rhythm they have just heard. Candidates will then be asked to sight sing the example and continue to improvise for two further bars, ending on the tonic or the mediant. The melody will begin on tonic or mediant, with melody ascending and descending by step over the range of a fifth. The examiner will give the tonic note before the candidate commences singing.

This melody will not be one of the printed examples in the Grade book.

Melodic Development

Key: C Major Tempo: 90-110bpm The candidate will be asked to improvise over an eight bar chord sequence in a minor key. The candidate should improvise a minor pentatonic melody, paying attention to rhythmic idea, style and shape. Keys will be Am, Dm or Cm using chords I, IV, V, and VI.

Candidates will be played the chord sequence twice with the first time being for practice and the second being examined. The two playings of the sequence will run continuously.



Music Knowledge


Dynamic markings

Dynamic meanings


Note values

Time signatures



Rest values

Recognition of intervals up to and including a perfect 5th. Identification of interval type (i.e. major or minor) not required.


Song Knowledge

Candidates will be asked about the differences or relationships of styles and performance between 2 of their chosen songs.




At Grade 5 the candidate will be expected to demonstrate both chest and head voice in a secure manner with the ability to cover wide intervals with an even tone. The candidate should also be expected to demonstrate a good understanding of stylistic matters. Two pieces are to be memorised and the microphone used for all performance pieces.

Grade Exam

Prepared work: candidates will need to perform their 3 chosen pieces and then their unaccompanied piece. They will also be asked to demonstrate a selection of technical exercises including a rhythmic test, scales, intervals and, phrasing and dynamics. Unprepared work: candidates will be asked five general musicianship questions, four will be general theory questions and the final one will be based around one of the performance pieces. There are also two ear tests which incorporate an element of sight

recognition.

Exam Structure


Technical Exercises


Ear Tests

Performance Pieces

Unaccompanied Piece


PIECES

Performance Pieces

At Grade 5 the pieces will be of a suitable length to reflect stylistic understanding and will be shown by tonal variety, stylistic rhythmic execution, a broader understanding and control of dynamics and phrasing. Pieces will have the opportunity for considerable ornamentation and improvisation.

Unaccompanied Piece

Candidates are asked to perform an excerpt of a song unaccompanied. The unaccompanied piece is performed between the second and third songs of the performance pieces. Candidates should prepare 24 bars of music and show the ability to convey a stylistic and original sense of line to the melody in the use of stylistic ornamentation and pitch shifts. Candidates should demonstrate a musical awareness of shape and direction to the passage to convey a unified whole. The excerpt chosen can be from any song the candidate wishes including one of the 3 accompanied pieces.

TECHNICAL WORK


Rhythm

Tempo: 115bpm in 4/4 time Performed to a backing track candidates must perform their prepared16 bar rhythmic exercise after a 4 bar intro. This now includes introduction of triplet rhythms and advanced syncopation.


Scales

Tempo: 104-112bpm in 4/4 time Performed to a backing track candidates may start on any note from A to D. Candidates will be asked to perform their prepared

major and natural minor scale and arpeggio exercises as well as the minor pentatonic and blues scale of their chosen key. Candidates may be asked to perform the exercises staccato or legato.

Intervals

Tempo: 100 bpm

Candidates should prepare all three parts of a chord sequence using chords I, IV and V. The examiner will select the part to be given against the other two parts played on a backing track.


Key: Db Major for Female Voice, F Major for Male Voice

Tempo: 90bpm Prepared exercise performed to a backing track, candidates may use any vocal sound they consider appropriate. Candidates will perform the 26 bar exercise they have learnt from their Rockschool exam book. Singing phrases made up of half, quarter, eighth, sixteenth and dotted notes and rests. Emphasis on semiquaver articulation, with singers needing to pay attention to the marked changes in dynamics, more sophisticated syncopation and staccato and legato markings. Range up to a tenth.

EAR TESTS


Key: C Major Tempo: 112 bpm Candidates will be given a score sheet with three rhythmic and three melodic examples that are two bars long each made up of half, quarter, eighth and dotted notes. The examiner will play one of the rhythmic examples and candidates will be asked to identify the correct answer from the printed examples. The examiner will then ask the candidate to look at the melodic examples and identify which one corresponds to the rhythm they have just heard.

Candidates will then be asked to sight sing the example and continue to improvise for two further bars, ending on the tonic, median or fifth. The melody will begin on tonic, mediant or fifth, with melody ascending and descending by step over the range of a fifth. The examiner will give the tonic note before the candidate commences singing.

This melody will not be one of the printed examples.

Melodic Development

Key: A, C, D or G Minor Tempo: 92-100bpm The candidate will be asked to improvise over an eight bar minor key sequence made up of a four bar chord pattern repeated, using chords I, II, IV, V, and VI. The candidate should improvise a minor pentatonic or blues melody, paying attention to rhythmic idea, style and shape.



Music Knowledge


Dynamic markings

Dynamic meanings

Note values

Time signatures



Rest values


Recognition of major, minor and perfect intervals up to and including a perfect 5th


Song Knowledge

Candidates will be asked about the differences or relationships of styles and performance between 2 of their chosen songs.




At Grade 6 the candidate will require knowledge of suitable tone, delivery and rhythm and be expected to portray the meaning of the song with increasing confidence. The candidate should also demonstrate increasing knowledge of microphone techniques and will be expected to be able to move effortlessly between registers with a wide range of dynamic control and articulation.

All pieces are to be memorised and the microphone used throughout the exam.

Grade Exam

Prepared work: candidates will need to perform their 3 chosen pieces. They will also be asked to demonstrate a selection of technical exercises including scales and backing vocals. Unprepared work: candidates will be given a quick study piece that includes some sight reading and some improvisation. In addition candidates will be asked five general musicianship questions, three will be general theory questions, one will be on vocal technique

and the final one will be based around one of the performance pieces. There are also two ear tests which incorporate an element of sight recognition.

Exam Structure


Technical Exercises

Quick Study Piece

Ear Tests

Performance Pieces

General Musicianship Questions

PIECES

Performance Pieces

At Grade 6 pieces will be more complex in construction and content and will require a more solid understanding of stylistic matters.

TECHNICAL WORK

At Grade 6 there are three groups of technical work.

Scales

Tempo: 140bpm in 4/4 time Candidates will be asked to perform their scale and arpeggio exercise and start on any note from A-D. The examiner will choose whether the exercise should be given as staccato or legato, and direct crescendo and diminuendo requirements.

Backing Vocals

Tempo: 100-110 bpm Candidates should prepare all three parts of each of the two backing vocal exercises in their Rockschool Grade book. The examiner will then select one part from each of the exercises and ask the candidate to sing it against the other two parts on a backing track.


EAR TESTS


Key: C Major Tempo: 90 bpm Candidates will be given a score sheet with a melodic line and three rhythmic lines underneath. Candidates will be asked which of the rhythmic lines corresponds to the values and rhythm of the rests in the melodic line. The examiner will then ask the candidate to clap back the rhythm of the rests in the identified example.

Harmonic Development

Key: Bb Major or A Minor Tempo: 90-95bpm Candidates will be given a score with a four bar melodic phrase and chord symbols, with a one bar lead in. They will then hear the phrase and chords played 3 times. The first two times the candidate should practice harmonising against the line, and on the third time they should perform their harmonic line. The three playings of the exercise will run continuously.

QUICK STUDY PIECE

Candidates will be asked to perform a Quick Study Piece during their examination. Rhythm, vocal line and lyrics will be shown on a score but the candidate will be expected to include improvisation over chord sequences and some rhythmic interpretation to reflect the style. The examiner will play the full basic version of the piece and then the candidate will have 3 minutes to prepare their performance. The candidate will be allowed one practice run to be immediately followed by the performance version. At Grade 6 the Quick Study Piece will consist of up to 30 bars


In this part of the exam you will be asked five questions. Three of these questions will be about general music knowledge, one about vocal technique and the fifth question will be comparing two songs.

Music Knowledge


Dynamic markings

Dynamic meanings

Note values

Time signatures



Rest values

Recognition of major, minor or perfect intervals up to and including an octave


Technique Knowledge

Candidates will be asked one question on producing dynamics and what is involved

Song Knowledge

Candidates will be asked about the performance intentions and communication of 2 songs.




At Grade 7 the candidate is expected to perform with a considerable sense of commitment and musical integrity and with a well-grounded sense of performance and communication. All pieces are to be memorised and the microphone used throughout the exam.

Grade Exam

Prepared work: candidates will need to perform their 3 chosen pieces. They will also be asked to demonstrate a selection of technical exercises including scales and backing vocals. Unprepared work: candidates will be given a quick study piece that includes some sight reading and some improvisation. In addition candidates will be asked five general musicianship questions, three will be general theory questions, one will be on vocal technique and the final one will be based around one of the performance pieces. There are also two ear tests which incorporate an element of

sight recognition.

Exam Structure


Technical Exercises

Quick Study Piece

Ear Tests

Performance Pieces


PIECES

Performance Pieces

At Grade 7 pieces will be of a substantial length to enable the candidate to demonstrate a thorough working knowledge of suitable stylistic techniques. The pieces will require considerable personal interpretation, with improvisation and ornamentation used to

produce a balanced musical result.

TECHNICAL WORK


Scales


Backing Vocals

Tempo: 110 bpm Candidates should prepare all three parts of each of the two backing vocal exercises in their Rockschool Grade book. The examiner will then select one part from each of the exercises and ask the candidate to sing it against the other two parts on a backing track.


EAR TESTS


Key: C Major Tempo: 90 bpm Candidates will be given a score sheet with a melodic line and three rhythmic lines underneath. Candidates will be asked which of the rhythmic lines corresponds to the values and rhythm of the rests in the melodic line. The examiner will then ask the candidate to clap back the rhythm of the rests in the identified example.


Key: C Major Tempo: 75bpm Candidates will be given a four bar chord chart with a one bar lead in. The tonic note will be played once and then the candidate will have ten seconds to look over the bass line progression on the chart. The examiner will then play the full chart through once with the bass line. On the repeat the candidate will be required to sing the bass line, which will now be absent from the played recording. The two playings of the exercise will run continuously.

QUICK STUDY PIECE

Candidates will be asked to perform a Quick Study Piece during their examination. Rhythm, vocal line and lyrics will be shown on a score but the candidate will be expected to include improvisation over chord sequences and some rhythmic interpretation to reflect the style. The examiner will play the full basic version of the piece and then the candidate will have 3 minutes to prepare their performance. The candidate will be allowed one practice run to be immediately followed by the performance version. At Grade 7 the Quick Study Piece will consist of up to 35 bars


In this part of the exam you will be asked five questions. Three of these questions will be about general music knowledge, one about vocal technique and the fifth question will be comparing songs.

Music Knowledge


Dynamic markings

Dynamic meanings

Note values

Time signatures



Rest values

Recognition of major, minor or perfect intervals up to and including an octave


Technique Knowledge

Candidates will be asked one question on producing dynamics including crescendo and diminuendo

Song Knowledge

Candidates will be asked about the performance intentions and communication of all 3 songs.




At Grade 8 the main emphasis is on performance and this is demonstrated in a complete control of suitable stylistic techniques. The candidate is expected to make full use of microphone techniques to enhance their performance and to demonstrate a secure ability in register and tone.

All pieces are to be memorised and the microphone used throughout the exam.

Grade Exam

Prepared work: candidates will need to perform their 3 chosen pieces. They will also be asked to demonstrate a selection of technical exercises including scales and backing vocals. Unprepared work: candidates will be given a quick study piece that includes some sight reading and some improvisation. In addition candidates will be asked five general musicianship questions, three will be general theory questions, one will be on vocal technique

and the final one will be based around one of the performance pieces. There are also two ear tests which incorporate an element of sight recognition.

Exam Structure


Technical Exercises

Quick Study Piece

Ear Tests

Performance Pieces


PIECES

Performance Pieces

At Grade 8 considerable improvisation and ornamentation is expected to produce an advanced and mature sense of performance

with a high degree of personal interpretation.

Technical Work


Scales


Backing Vocals

Tempo: 65-100 bpm Candidates should prepare all three parts of each of the two backing vocal exercises in their Rockschool Grade book. The examiner will then select one part from each of the exercises and ask the candidate to sing it against the other two parts on a backing track.

EAR TESTS


Key: Bb or C Major Tempo: 100 bpm Candidates will be given a score with an eight bar melodic phrase and chord symbols, with a one bar lead in. They will then hear the

phrase and chords played 3 times. The first two times the candidate should practice harmonising against the line, and on the third time they should perform their harmonic line. The three playings of the exercise will run continuously.



Key: A Major Tempo: 85bpm

Candidates will be given a four bar chord chart with a one bar lead in. The tonic note will be played once and then the candidate will have ten seconds to look over the bass line progression on the chart. The examiner will then play the full chart through once with the bass line. On the repeat the candidate will be required to sing the bass line, which will now be absent from the played recording. The two playings of the exercise will run continuously.

QUICK STUDY PIECE

Candidates will be asked to perform a Quick Study Piece during their examination. Rhythm, vocal line and lyrics will be shown on a

score but the candidate will be expected to include improvisation over chord sequences and some rhythmic interpretation to reflect the style. The examiner will play the full basic version of the piece and then the candidate will have 3 minutes to prepare their performance. The candidate will be allowed one practice run to be immediately followed by the performance version. At Grade 8 the Quick Study Piece will consist of up to 30 bars


In this part of the exam you will be asked five questions. Three of these questions will be about general music knowledge, one about vocal technique and the fifth question will be comparing songs.

Music Knowledge

In Grade 8 you may be asked to identify any of the following:

(3 questions)

Dynamic markings

Dynamic meanings

Note values

Time signatures



Rest values

Recognition of major, minor or perfect intervals up to and including a major 10th


Technique Knowledge

Candidates will be asked one question on producing: dynamics including crescendo and diminuendo; articulation; changing between

registers.

Song Knowledge

Candidates will be asked about the performance and communication of all 3 songs.



Prepared Work


Unprepared Work

1. Rockschool exams are open to all candidates, irrespective of age and without previously having taken any other grade in the same subject in accordance with our Equal Opportunities policy.

2. Full payment and relevant documentation must reach the offices of Rockschool on or before the chosen exam period's closing date. If late entries are received, a 15 fee will be applied to each candidate. The late fee is non-refundable and no guarantee is made that an exam will be scheduled in the current exam period if the late fee is paid. Fees will be charged for any payments made with a dishonoured cheque to cover administrative costs and bank charges.

3. Rockschool reserves the right to withhold the release of examination results and certificates until full payment has cleared. Failure to make full payment inclusive of late fees at least two weeks prior to the exam will result in the exam being cancelled.

4. The dates of the exam periods are as given and may include any date between the start and end of that period inclusive of weekends, school days and school holiday periods. On application, candidates may give dates within an examination period

when they are unavailable. However, the scheduling of exams is dependent on many factors and therefore Rockschool cannot guarantee to avoid all such dates.

5. It is the responsibility of the applicant/candidate to read and to abide by these regulations ensuring the correct payment has been made, the accuracy of information supplied and that those connected with the examination are aware of all relevant information.

6. Names on certificates will be as on candidate's acknowledgement letter. A 10 fee will be charged if: a) Any amendments to the name are requested by the candidate after the date of the exam. b) A replacement certificate is needed due to loss or error in the information given, either by the teacher or candidate.

7. Cancellation of an exam will result in loss of the exam fee. Exam entries may not be transferred from one candidate to another. Full refunds will only be given for medical reasons and on production of a medical certificate. Partial refunds may be given under

exceptional circumstances at the discretion of Rockschool. 8. Any changes to an exam date or time after it has been scheduled will incur a sliding scale of fees: More than one month to the

exam - 15; within fourteen days of the exam - 25. Please note that any changes to a schedule can only be made by an authorised Rockschool Exams Officer and are subject to the availability of an alternative exam slot in the period.

9. If a candidate wishes to defer their exam once it has been scheduled they will incur a charge of half the original exam entry fee. 10. Rockschool reserves the right to defer exams until the next available exam period. After one deferral, an exam is guaranteed at

an exam centre chosen by Rockschool. This may not be your local centre. 11. Photocopying of any material to facilitate page turns in the exams is allowed with the copies being retained by the examiner. 12. Candidates must bring in two copies of music for any Free Choice piece(s). One must be an original copy of the piece to be

performed, and one must be a second copy for the examiner, which may be a photocopy. If there is no music available, a zero mark may be given for the piece. Any queries in writing should be addressed to the Chief Examiner at least two weeks prior to

the exam date. Free Choice backing tracks provided by the candidate must be without the examined part. If an unacceptable backing track is submitted, a zero mark may be given for the piece.

13. No teacher, or other person, may be present during the preparation of a candidate's Quick Study Piece. Any assistance given to a candidate may result in disqualification from the examination.

14. Only the examiner and candidate are allowed to be present in the examination room, with the exception of moderators appointed by Rockschool and teachers/assistants of special needs candidates, agreed by Rockschool in advance.

15. Any candidates with special educational needs must notify the Rockschool office of any special provision needed prior to the exam and provide medical acknowledgement where possible.

16. All band exams are for the advertised instruments only. No backing CDs may be used in the exam. 17. On occasion an examiner may conclude an element of an exam when enough has been heard to reach a balanced assessment. 18. Entries will be accepted by Rockschool only in accordance with the conditions and regulations stated and in all matters the

decision of Rockschool must be accepted as final. 19. Rockschool operates a quality assured appeals process. All appeals must be made in writing no later than 30 days after receipt

of result. There are three criteria for formal appeals. These are: a) Appeals in respect of errors in procedure b) Appeals in respect of errors in matching comments to marks awarded c) Appeals against Rockschool's decisions on reasonable adjustments or special considerations requests Second levels of appeal will be charged at a standard fee of 25, payable to Rockschool Ltd. Any successful appeals will be refunded in full. Third levels of appeal will be charged at a standard fee of 50, payable to Rockschool Ltd. Any successful appeals will be refunded in full. Full details of Rockschool Ltd's appeal process are available from the Rockschool office or website (www.rockschool.co.uk).

All fees quoted are inclusive of VAT and effective as of 1st January 2014


Introduction and OverviewExaminationsGrade ExaminationsPerformance Certificates

Examination StructureGrade 1-5 Grade 6-8

Examination TimingsExamination Timings for Grade Exams & Performance Certificates

Repertoire ChoicesFree Choice Pieces

Use of MicrophonesMemoryMarking Scheme

Grade 1Grade ExamExam StructurePiecesPerformance PiecesUnaccompanied Piece

Technical WorkRhythmScalesIntervalsPhrasing and Dynamics

Ear TestsRhythmic IdentificationRhythmic Development

General Musicianship QuestionsMusic KnowledgeSong Knowledge




Ear TestsRhythmic IdentificationRhythmic Development





Ear TestsRhythmic IdentificationMelodic Development





Ear TestsRhythmic and Melodic IdentificationMelodic Development





Ear TestsRhythmic and Melodic IdentificationMelodic Development



Grade 6Grade ExamExam StructurePiecesPerformance Pieces

Technical WorkScalesBacking Vocals

Ear TestsRhythmic and Melodic IdentificationHarmonic Development

QUICK STUDY PIECEGeneral Musicianship QuestionsMusic KnowledgeTechnique KnowledgeSong Knowledge


Grade 7Grade ExamExam StructurePiecesPerformance Pieces

Technical WorkScalesBacking Vocals




Grade 8Grade ExamExam StructurePiecesPerformance PiecesTechnical WorkScalesBacking Vocals




Assessment CriteriaPrepared WorkUnprepared Work

Exam Regulations

rock school vocals syl lab us

Documents

rock school

vocals syllabus guide

assessment criteria

exam regulations