Does it make sense to do exam grades as an adult learner?

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Posted on 16 Aug 2022, this text provides information on Syllabus Queries related to Course Queries. Please note that while accuracy is prioritized, the data presented might not be entirely correct or up-to-date. This information is offered for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and should not be considered as a substitute for professional advice.

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manpreet Tuteehub forum best answer Best Answer 2 years ago

I'm in my thirties; I've played acoustic guitar for about a decade, but recently took up "proper instruments" flute and piano as a beginner - playing from score, learning scales, etc rather than just bashing chords. I did do up to grade 3 classical guitar (in the UK) as a young child so I luckily can read music, etc.

I have been having semi-formal lessons and bought myself some ABRSM grade 1-3 books on both instruments.

I'd frankly feel a bit of a fool turning up as a grown man, to do a grade 1 piano exam, and I wondered if there is any point doing grades other than for a sense of achievement. If I work through pieces and grade requirements, is there a benefit to taking the exams?

Do many adults take the grade exams, especially the very low grades?

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manpreet 2 years ago


I organise an exam centre for guitar (electric/acoustic/classical) and bass exams. Whilst 80% of candidates are younger than 18 or so, that leaves 20% adults. Most of them come with a bundle of nerves, but I see them for the next, and the next,and so on. Frequently they say "I don't know why I'm doing this", but the main real reason seems to be that they see it as a thorough, structured way to get good on an instrument.It somehow focuses them in their practice, seeing the goal.

Other instruments will have the same regime, so don't be concerned that you're following a 6yr old into the exam room. You will be judged on the performance, and no-one's going to think 'he should play better than that 6yr old, 'cos he's older'. The exam is not supposed to be subjective. Trouble is, most folk stop 'doing exams' in their late teens, so after that, they get out of the habit. Kids are doing tests and exams almost on a weekly basis, so for them, it's just another pesky exam.For adults, it's something they thought they'd left behind!

Give it a try. You actually don't need to go through each and every one. Start where comfortable, and see how it goes. Insist your teacher shows you exactly what will happen in those 10-15 minutes.

Also consider other exam boards - Trinity, LCM (RGT), etc.You may enjoy one better than another, but the standard of playing ought to be very similar. And the certificates are great for covering up dodgy wallpapering...


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