Debut
Grade 1
Grade 2
Grade 3
Grade 4
Grade 5
Grade 6
Grade 7
Grade 8
Rockschool grade exams are designed for contemporary musicians. The exams are designed for all age groups starting at an Initial grade and going up to advanced diploma courses. For a practising musician, the exams are designed for a multi year curriculum with skills and techniques going up at every grade level.
Rockschool has been producing music material for 30+ years to help musicians assess their progress. Rockschool is one of the widely recognised global brands for their certifications in musical instruments. They cover Guitar, Piano, Keyboard, Singing, Ukulele, Drums, Violin, Bass Guitar, Music Production & Music Theory.
So, whether you are taking the first steps to learn or you are looking to improve your technical skills and proficiency in any musical instrument, Rockschool, London is a great choice for you. Explore Rockschool, London.
| Grade Level | Duration |
|---|---|
| Debut | 14 minutes |
| Grade 1 | 17 minutes |
| Grade 2 | 17 minutes |
| Grade 3 | 20 minutes |
| Grade 4 | 24 minutes |
| Grade 5 | 24 minutes |
| Grade 6 | 27 minutes |
| Grade 7 | 27 minutes |
| Grade 8 | 30 minutes |
Performance Piece 1
Maximum marks
20
Performance Piece 2
20
Performance Piece 3
20
Technical Exercises
20
Total
80
The Online Grade exam is a mixture of music performance and technical works. The techniques and skill level goes up with every grade. The grade exams are designed for students of all age groups. Candidates have to perform 3 songs from the set list or the Rockschool original tracks. Explore the exam syllabus at every grade.
| Song/Artist | Info | Key Features to Implement at this Grade | Try Everything from Zootopia |
Genre: Soundtrack Key: Db major Tempo ♩ = 115 Range: B♭3 to D♭5 |
• Managing tone and intonation across a wider range • Secure rhythmic phrasing to the backing track • Maintaining a vocal line with backing vocals • Clarity and articulation of the lyrics |
|---|---|---|
| Imagine John Lennon |
Genre: Peace Anthem Key: C major Tempo: ♩ = 72 Range: E3 to G4 |
• Managing tone quality in your upper range • Secure intonation • Secure rhythmic phrasing to the backing track • Ability to articulate the lyrics clearly |
| Havana Camila Cabello |
Genre: Pop Key: G minor Tempo: ♩ = 105 Range: G3 to D5 |
• Ability to manage tone and intonation across a wider range • Secure rhythmic phrasing to the backing track • Ability to manage complex melodic riff's • Clarity and articulation of the lyrics |
| That's What Makes You Beautiful One Direction |
Genre: Pop Key: E major Tempo: ♩ = 120 Range: B3 to C#4 |
• Managing tone and intonation in chest voice and falsetto • Secure rhythmic phrasing with triplet quarter-note timing • Ability to manage longer phrases with breath support • Clarity and articulation of the lyrics |
| Change Your Life Little Mix |
Genre: Pop Key: F#minor Tempo: ♩ = 80 Range: A3 to B4 |
• Managing tone and intonation at a wider range • Secure rhythmic phrasing of spoken words • Confident phrasing of the melody • Clarity and articulation of the lyrics |
| Three Little Birds Bob Marley |
Genre: Reggae Key: A major Tempo: ♩ = 75 Range: A3 to A4 |
• Managing tone and intonation within an octave • Secure rhythmic feel to backing track • Applying staccato and legato expression • Clarity and articulation of the lyrics |
| Only Wanna Be with You Post Malone (Pokémon 25 Version) |
Genre: Pop/Rock Key: G major Tempo: ♩ = 98 Range: E3 to C4 |
• Managing tone and intonation in a single register • Secure rhythmic phrasing to the backing track • Ability to hold and support longer notes • Clarity and articulation of the lyrics |
| Da Doo Ron Ron The Crystals |
Genre: R&B Key: E major Tempo: ♩ = 150 Range: B♭3 to G4 |
• Managing tone and intonation in a single register • Faster rhythmic phrasing to the backing track • Managing breath support • Clarity and articulation of the lyrics |
| Lean on Me Bill Withers |
Genre: Soul Key: C major Tempo: ♩ = 72 Range: F3 to F4 |
• Managing melody in either chest, head voice or both • Secure rhythmic and melodic phrasing • Some dynamic changes between sections • Communication and articulation of the lyrics |
| Move Your Feet Junior Senior |
Genre: Dance-Pop Key: A minor Tempo: ♩ = 110 Range: F#4 to B4 |
• Maintaining a strong tone quality on the sung parts • Secure rhythmic phrasing of the rapia/spoken parts • Ability to manage a leading line around a chorus line • Clarity and articulation of the lyrics |
Candidates are to perform the following scale, as written in the grade book:
| Scale | Starting note | Range | Tempo | Accompaniment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Major scale | Candidate's choice | Up to the 5th | 80bpm | Click track |
| Song/Artist | Info | Key Features to Implement at this Grade | We Will Rock You Queen |
Genre: Rock Key: E minor Tempo: ♩ = 80 Range: E3 to A4 |
• Confident chest voice management with breath support • Secure rhythmic phrasing of the melody line • Dynamic variation between verses and chorus • Clarity of the diction and articulation of the lyrics |
|---|---|---|
| Don't Stop the Music Rihanna |
Genre: Dance-Pop Key: F#minor Tempo: ♩ = 115 Range: A3 to A4 |
• Managing pitch and intonation in chest and head voice • Secure rhythmic phrasing to the backing track • Including dynamic variation in performance • Confident and clear diction and articulation |
| A Million Dreams from The Greatest Showman |
Genre: Musical Theatre Key: Eb major Tempo: ♩ = 148 Range: G3 to C5 |
• Maintaining a suitable tone across the registers • Secure rhythmic and melodic management • Confident management of dynamic changes between sections • Strong communication and articulation of the lyrics |
| I Love You Billie Eilish One Direction |
Genre: Pop Key: C major Tempo: ♩ = 69 Range: G3 to A4 |
• Secure control of tone colour and intonation • Legato phrasing and dynamic variation • Ability to support longer notes and phrases • Clarity of the diction |
| Stand by Me Ben E. King |
Genre: Soul Key: A major Tempo: ♩ = 118 Range: A3 to A4 |
• Managing registers changes and falsetto/head voice • Secure rhythmic and melodic phrasing • Confident dynamic changes betweenctions • Strong communication and articulation of the lyrics |
| Fireflies Owl Cay |
Genre: Synth-pop Key: Eb major Tempo: ♩ = 90 Range: B♭3 to B♭4 |
• Confident management of chest voice and falsetto • Rhythmic phrasing with secure pitching • Staccato and legato phrasing • Strong clarity of articulation and diction |
| It Means Beautiful from Everybody's Talking About Jamie |
Genre: Musical Theatre Key: F minor Tempo: ♩ = 89 Range: F#3 to C#5 |
• Competent management of chest and head voice • Secure rhythmic and melodic detailing • Confident breath support on phrases • Clarity and communication of lyrical content |
| How Far I'll Go from Moana |
Genre: Soundtrack Key: E major Tempo: Moderately Range: B3 to D5 |
• Maintaining a suitable tone across the registers • Secure melodic detailing and pitching • Ability to manage longer notes and phrases • Engaged articulation of the lyrics |
| Somewhere Only We Know Lily Allen |
Genre: Pop Key: Bb major Tempo: ♩ = 84 Range: B♭3 to B♭4 |
• Managing pitch and intonation in chest and head voice • Secure rhythmic phrasing to the backing track • Maintaining breath support on longer phrasing • Clear and confident diction and articulation of the lyrics |
| Friends Kelvin Jones |
Genre: Pop Key: G major Tempo: ♩ = 110 Range: D3 to E |
• Managing tone in the upper chest voice and transition • Secure phrasing with staccato and accents • Ability to manage longer phrases with breath support • Clarity and expression of the lyrics |
Candidates are to perform the following scale, as written in the grade book:
| Scale | Starting note | Range | Tempo | Accompaniment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Natural minor scale | Candidate's choice | 1 octave | 80bpm | Click track |
| Song/Artist | Info | Key Features to Implement at this Grade | Can't Stop the Feeling! Justin Timberlake |
Genre: Pop Key: C major Tempo: ♩ = 113 Range: G3 to E5 |
• Secure management of chest voice, transition and falsetto • Confident rhythmic and melodic detailing • Dynamic variation between sections • Clarity and communication of lyrical conten |
|---|---|---|
| Afterglow Ed Sheeran |
Genre: Pop Key: B major Tempo: ♩ = 113 Range: F#3 to B4 |
• Secure use of chest voice and falsetto • Confident rhythmic and melodic detailing • Dynamic variation and breath control • Clarity and communication of lyrical content |
| Summertime Ella Fitzgerald |
Genre: Jazz Key: A minor Tempo: ♩ = 85 (swung 8ths) Range: E4 to E5 |
• Management of chest and head tone quality • Secure pitching/intonation through transition • Confident melodic and rhythmic phrasing • Expressiveness and lyrical communication |
| Sign of the Times Harry Styles One Direction |
Genre: Pop Key: F major Tempo: ♩ = 60 Range: A3 to C5 |
• Managing contrasting tone colours in the voice • Confident rhythmic and melodic detailing • Dynamic variations and breath support • Clarity and communication of lyrical content |
| Seven Nation Army The White Stripes |
Genre: Blues/Rock Key: E minor Tempo: ♩ = 124 Range: D4 to B4 |
• Well-managed transition and falsetto • Supporting softer notes with breath control • Expressive variation of dynamics and tone colour • Strong communication and expression of lyrics |
| Almost There from The Princess and the Frog |
Genre: Soundtrack key: E major Tempo: ♩ = 112 Range: B♭3 to E♭s |
• Managing suitable tone colours across the registers • Secure rhythmic management of tempo changes • Ability to hold long high notes • Strong theatrical articulation of the lyrics |
| Don't Upset the Rhythm Noisettes |
Genre: Indie Rock/Funk Key: G#minor Tempo: ♩ = 120 Range: FE3 to B4 |
• Managing pitch and intonation in chest and head voice • Secure rhythmic phrasing with accented notes • Including dynamic variation in performance • Clear communication and articulation of the lyrics |
| Your Song Ellie Goulding |
Genre: Pop Key: Bbmajor Tempo: ♩ = 68 Range: F3 to C5 |
• Managing pitch and intonation in the upper range • Secure rhythmic phrasing against the backing track • Expressive tone colours and dynamic changes • Maintaining breath control on longer phrasing |
| I Try Macy Gray |
Genre: Soul/Pop Key: D major Tempo: ♩ = 76 Range: D3 to G4 |
• Confident intonation and clarity of lower register • Secure melodic and rhythmic phrasing • Expressive variation of tone colour • Communication and articulation of lyrical content |
| Summertime Magic Childish Gambino |
Genre: Contemporary R&B Key: A minor Tempo: ♩ = 100 Range: G3 to A4 |
• Confident falsetto management with secure intonation • Secure rhythmic phrasing of the melody line • Expressive vocal line with and around the backing vocals • Strong communication and articulation of the lyrics |
Candidates are to perform the following scale, as written in the grade book:
| Scale | Starting note | Range | Tempo | Accompaniment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Natural minor scale | Candidate's choice | 1 octave | 80bpm | Click track |
| Song/Artist | Info | Key Features to Implement at this Grade | Valerie Amy Winehouse |
Genre: Contemporary R&B/Soul Key: Eb major Tempo: ♩ = 108 Range: G3 to B♭4 |
• Confident management of register changes • Secure rhythmic and melodic phrasing • Dynamic changes and variation of tone colours • Strong communication and articulation of lyrical content |
|---|---|---|
| Happy Pharrell Williams |
Genre: Pop Key: F major Tempo: ♩ = 160 Range: C4 to C5 |
• Confident falsetto management with secure intonation • Secure rhythmic phrasing of the melody line • Expressive and dynamic variations • Strong communication and articulation of the lyrics |
| 22 Taylor Swift |
Genre: Pop Key: G major Tempo: ♩ = 104 Range: G3 to D5 |
• Confidence with tone quality and register management • Secure rhythmic and melodic phrasing with accuracy of pitching • Expressive dynamic variation and tone colours • Secure communication to emphasis the lyrical content |
| Radioactive Imagine Dragons One Direction |
Genre: Rock Key: B minor Tempo: ♩ = 136 Range: E3 to B4 |
• Well-managed and projected chest voice and transition • Sustained breath support for management of melodic phrasing • Expressive variation of dynamics and tone colour • Strong communication and expression |
| It's All Right Jon Batiste(from soul) |
Genre: Soundtrack/Soul Key: D major Tempo: ♩ = 104 Range: A3 to C#5 |
• Managing the falsetto/head voice with secure intonation • Confident rhythmic phrasing with a 'swung' feel • Exploring a range of tone colours in the voice • Strong communication and articulation of the lyrics |
| Shotgun George Ezra |
Genre: Pop key: F major Tempo: ♩ = 116 Range: F2 to F4 |
• Strong tone quality and register management • Confidence in managing rhythms with accented notes • Vocal effects on higher and lower notes • Dynamic variation and communication of the lyrics |
| Colors of the Wind from Pocahontas |
Genre: Soundtrack Key: D major Tempo: ♩ = 100 Range: A3 to D5 |
• Maintaining a suitable tone across the registers • Secure management of tempo changes and rhythms • Secure dynamic changes between sections • Strong communication and articulation of the lyrics |
| Marry You Bruno Mars |
Genre: Pop Key: F major Tempo: ♩ = 145 Range: C4 to B♭4 |
• Confidence in managing falsetto/head voice quality with secure intonation •Secure rhythmic and melodic phrasing •Expressive dynamics changes and breath support • Strong communication of lyrical content |
| People Help the People Birdy |
Genre: Chamber Pop Key: F# major Tempo: ♩ = 72 Range: A#3 to A#4 |
• Secure management of both chest and head voice • Secure rhythmic phrasing of the melody • Longer phrases managed with secure breath support • Confidence in articulation and delivery of the lyrical content |
| All of Me Billie Holiday |
Genre: Jazz Key: F major Tempo: ♩ = 105(Swung 8ths) Range: A3 to C5 |
• Secure management of chest and head voice • Attention to melodic and rhythmic details • Stylistic shaping of tone colours • Personal variation of the melody |
Candidates are to perform the following scale, as written in the grade book.The examiner will ask for one of them to be performed in the exam.
| Scale | Starting note | Range | Tempo | Accompaniment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Major scale | Candidate's choice | 1 octave | 90bpm | Click track |
| Natural minor scale | Candidate's choice | 1 octave | 90bpm | Click track |
| Song/Artist | Info | Key Features to Implement at this Grade | Someone Like You Adele |
Genre: Pop Ballad Key: A major Tempo: ♩ = 67 Range: E3 to E5 |
• Confident management of register changes and tone colours • Secure rhythmic and melodic phrasing • Dynamic variation and expression on phrasing and longer notes • Communication and articulation of lyrical content |
|---|---|---|
| Dynamite BTS |
Genre: k-Pop Key: C# minor Tempo: ♩ = 114 Range: B3 to C#5 |
• Confident management of tone colours in chest voice and falsetto • Fast rhythmic phrasing with secure pitching • Expressive techniques including accented notes and spoken words • Strong communication with clarity of articulation and diction |
| Ocean Eyes Billie Eilish |
Genre: Pop/ Electro Key: G major Tempo: ♩ = 73 Range: E3 to E5 |
• Secure management of wide range and register changes • Stylistic tone colours with breath support • Ad-libs and melodic variations in the bridge section • Clarity of the lyrics on lower and higher notes |
| Higher Ground Stevie Wonder |
Genre: Funk/ Pop Key: Eb minor Tempo: ♩ = 125 Range: G3 to A♭4 |
• Confident blended/ higher chest voice management • Stylistic phrasing and embellishment of the melody line • Expressive variation with maintained breath support • Strong communication of the lyrical content |
| Diamonds Rihanna |
Genre: Pop Key: B minor Tempo: ♩ = 92 Range: A3 to B4 |
• Stylistic management of tone colours across the range • Secure rhythmic and melodic phrasing • Confident breath support of longer notes and phrases • Personalised communication with clear articulation and diction |
| Magic Coldplay |
Genre: Alternative Pop/ Rock key: E mixolydian Tempo: ♩ = 93 Range: E3 to D5 |
• The rhythmic phrasing of the melody • A melodic line that is manageable in your range • Dynamic variation and expression between different sections • Clarity of lyrical content |
| My Baby Just Cares For Me Nina Simone |
Genre: Swing Key: A major Tempo: ♩ = 120 swing Range: D3 to A4 |
• Confident management of lower register changes and tone colours • Secure rhythmic phrasing and timing to accompaniment • Range of expressive variations and techniques • Communication and articulation of lyrical content |
| Teardrop Massive Attack |
Genre: Trip Hop Key: A mixolydian/ A major Tempo: ♩ = 80 Range: A3 to C5 |
• Confident use of higher register with changing tone colours • Secure pitching and timing of melodic and rhythmic details • Expressive techniques of legato phrasing and changing dynamics • Stylistic understanding and communication of the lyrics |
| Let Her Go Passenger |
Genre: Indie/Folk Key: G major Tempo: ♩ = 146 Range: D3 to E4 |
• Confident tone quality and register management • Developed melody line in 2nd verse and chorus • Dynamic variation between verses and chorus • Clarity of the diction and articulation of the lyrics |
| Another One Bites the Dust Queen |
Genre: Rock Key: E minor Tempo: ♩ = 110 Range: E3 to G4 |
• Confident chest voice management with secure breath support • Secure rhythmic staccato phrasing of the melody line • Expressive dynamic variation between verses and chorus • Clarity of the diction and articulation of the lyrics |
Candidates are to perform the following scale, as written in the grade book:
| Scale | Starting note | Range | Tempo | Accompaniment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Major Pentatonic scale | Candidate's choice | 1 octave | 80bpm | Click track |
| Song/Artist | Info | Key Features to Implement at this Grade | I'm Not the Only One Sam Smith |
Genre: Pop/Soul Key: F major Tempo: ♩ = 82 Range: F3 to C5 |
• Secure management of transition and falsetto/head voice • Confident rhythmic phrasing, riffs and melismas • Expressive techniques with change in tone colours • Strong communication and engagement of the lyrical content |
|---|---|---|
| Don't Watch Me Cry Jorja Smith |
Genre: Contemporary R&B Key: Bb minor Tempo: ♩ = 65 Range: A♭3 to D♭5 |
• Managing stylistic tone colours across the registers • Detailed melodic and rhythmic phrasing • Dynamic expression and variation • Personalised riffs and communication of the lyrics |
| Chasing Pavements Adele |
Genre: Pop key: C minor Tempo: ♩ = 80 Range: E♭3 to C5 |
• Confident management of tone colour across the range • Rhythmical secure phrasing including time signature changes • Melodic detailing with stylistic understanding • Clear interpretation and articulation of lyrics |
| All of Me John Legend |
Genre: Pop Key: F minor Tempo: ♩ = 126 Range: E♭3 to B♭4 |
• Confident management of chest voice and falsetto/ head voice • Secure melodic and rhythmic phrasing • Expressive tone colour with changing dynamics • Communication and articulation of lyrical content |
| What's Going On Marvin Gaye |
Genre: Soul/R&B Key: E major Tempo: ♩ = 100 Range: E3 to C#5 |
• Confident register changes with variation in tone colours • Stylistic and rhythmic phrasing of the melody line • Expressive and dynamic variation • Strong communication and developed vocal line |
| Reflection from Mulan |
Genre: Soundtrack Key: F major Tempo: ♩ = 88 Range: G3 to E♭5 |
• Secure management of chest voice and transition in to head voice • Confident breath support on melodic and rhythmic phrasing • Use of expressive techniques incl. dynamic variations • Strong communication of the lyrical content |
| Dream a Little ream of Me Ella Fitzgerald |
Genre: Jazz Key: C major Tempo: ♩ = 72 (swung) Range: A3 to A5 |
• Stylistic tone colours with secure pitching • Confident melodic and rhythmic phrasing • Expressive techniques with lyrical communication • Assured scat improvisation and development |
| Don't Stop Fleetwood Mac |
Genre: Pop/Rock Key: E major Tempo: ♩ = 118 (swung) Range: B3 to B4 |
• Secure management of lower notes and transition into head voice • Clarity of phrasing with confident breath support • Expressive techniques including crescendos/diminuendos • Strong communication of the lyrical content |
| Million Reasons Lady Gaga |
Genre: Pop Key: C major Tempo: ♩ = 65 Range: F3 to E5 |
• Confident register changes with maintained projection • Secure rhythmic phrasing and melodic variations • Expressive dynamic variations and tone colours • Strong communication and articulation to convey lyrical content |
| Use Somebody Kings of Leon |
Genre: Alternative Rock Key: C major Tempo: ♩ = 135 Range: C4 to G4 |
• Well-managed and projected chest voice and transition • Sustained breath support for management of melodic phrasing • Expressive variation of dynamics and tone colour • Strong communication and expression |
Candidates are to perform the following scale, as written in the grade book:
| Scale | Starting note | Range | Tempo | Accompaniment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minor pentatonic scale | Candidate's choice | 1 octave | 80bpm | Click track |
| Song/Artist | Info | Key Features to Implement at this Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Halo Beyoncé |
Genre: Pop Key: A major Tempo: ♩ = 80 Range: C#3 to E5 |
• Confident management of low chest voice, transition and head voice • Confident breath control and support of tone quality • Wide range of expressive and stylistic techniques¹ • Strong communication with a developed vocal line and ad libs. |
| Blinding Lights The Weeknd |
Genre: Synthwave/Pop Key: C minor Tempo: ♩ = 171 Range: F3 to C5 |
• Management of higher tessitura with clarity and intonation • Melodic phrasing with rhythmic security • Expressive techniques and development • Strong communication and stylistic understanding |
| You Learn Alanis Morissette |
Genre: Rock Key: Ab major Tempo: ♩ = 84 Range: A♭3 to D♭5 |
• Managing register changes with secure intonation • Confident rhythmic and melodic phrasing • Stylistic vocal effects like 'vocal fry' and 'flipped notes' • Strong communication and articulation of the lyrics |
| Jealous Labrinth |
Genre: Pop Key: Db major Tempo: ♩ = 86 Range: B♭2 to B4 |
• Use of wider tessitura with confident register blending • Confident rhythmic and melodic phrasing • Intricate dynamic changes and tone colouring • Strong communication and clarity of the lyrics |
| Tattooed Heart Ariana Grande |
Genre: Pop/Contemporary R&B Key: G major Tempo: ♩ = 72 Range: D4 to F5 |
• Management of higher register with clarity and intonation • Melodic and rhythmic accuracy and understanding • Secure use of breath control with a range of expressive techniques • Personalised ad libs and development with stylistic conviction |
| Someone You Loved Lewis Capaldi |
Genre: Pop Key: Db major Tempo: ♩ = 110 Range: E♭3 to B♭4 |
• Personalised and maintained tone quality • Secure rhythmic and melodic phrasing • Confident display of dynamics changes and breath support • Strong communication of the lyrical content |
| Collide Tiana Major9, EARTHGANG |
Genre: Pop Key: C mixolydian Tempo: ♩ = 74 Range: G3 to G5 |
• Well-managed register changes with secure pitching • Variations of tone colour for stylistic effect • Secure rhythmic and melodic phrasing with personalised riffs • Dynamic expression to support the lyrical content |
| Lullaby of Birdland Sarah Vaughan |
Genre: Jazz Key: B minor Tempo: ♩ = 120 Range: F♭3 to E5 |
• Stylistic tone colours with secure pitching/intonation • Confident melodic and rhythmic phrasing • Expressive techniques with lyrical communication • Assured development and scat improvisation |
| Happier Marshmello ft. Bastille |
Genre: Pop Key: D minor Tempo: ♩ = 100 Range: D3 to A4 |
• Well-managed changing between chest and falsetto/head voice • Effective breath support of the longer phrases and sections • Expressive techniques of staccato/legato and dynamic changes • Confident communication and articulation of the lyrics |
| I Heard It Through the Grapevine Marvin Gaye |
Genre: Soul Key: D minor Tempo: ♩ = 118 Range: A3 to D5 |
• Confident register changes with stylistic tone colours • Stylistic and rhythmic phrasing of the melody line • Expressive and dynamic variation • Strong communication and developed vocal line |
Candidates are to perform the following scale, as written in the grade book:
| Scale | Starting note | Range | Tempo | Accompaniment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blues scale | Candidate's choice | 1 octave | 100bpm | Click track |
| Song/Artist | Info | Key Features to Implement at this Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Ain't Nobody Chaka Khan |
Genre: Contemporary R&B/ Funk Key: E minor Tempo: ♩ = 104 Range: G♭3 to E♭5 |
• Effective use of resonators in transition and upper register • Staccato phrasing and rhythmically secure note placement • Confident expressive techniques and use of tone colour • Individually developed lead around recorded backing vocals |
| Feeling Good Muse |
Genre: Alternative Rock Key: G minor Tempo: ♩ = 72 Range: F3 to F5 |
• Seamless management of falsetto/upper register • Understanding of melodic phrasing and accuracy • Advanced dynamic variation and control • Sustained level of communication and expressiveness |
| Hey Laura Gregory Porter |
Genre: Jazz/Soul Key: D major Tempo: ♩ = 77 Range: D2 to B3 |
• Control of lower tessitura with secure intonation • Confident breath support and stylistic tone colour • Use of a range of advanced expressive techniques • Clearly articulated lyrics and personalised communication |
| Invitation Sarah Vaughan |
Genre: Jazz Key: G minor Tempo: ♩ = 113 Range: G3 to C5 |
• Confident register management with secure intonation • Secure understanding of melodic and rhythmic phrasing • Use of dynamics and stylistic tone colours • Personal development of melodic content |
| Movement Hozier |
Genre: Alternative/Indie Key: C# minor Tempo: ♩ = 71 Range: C#3 to C#5 |
• Confident use of wide tessitura • Secure rhythmic phrasing and melodic detailing • Extensive use of expressive techniques • Individual communication of lyrical content |
| Bleeding Love Leona Lewis |
Genre: Pop Key: F major Tempo: ♩ = 105 Range: C4 to A5 |
• Confident management of higher register with clarityand intonation • Accuracy and understanding with original as a reference point • Use of a range of expressive techniques and effects • Personalised development with stylistic conviction |
| Lover, You Should've Come Over Jeff Buckley |
Genre: Alt-Rock Key: D major Tempo: ♩ = 40 Range: B2 to D5 |
• Confident register changes including use of higher falsetto • Secure and g rhythmic phrasing and timing • Extensive use of dynamics and tone colours • Personalised riffs and communication of lyrical content |
| Something's Got a Hold on Me Etta James |
Genre: R&B Key: Db major Tempo: ♩ = 144 Range: F3 to D♭s |
• Managing breath support for sustained projection • Secure intonation of upper chest voice and transition • Use of resonators to create stylistic tone colour(s) • Singing with backing vocals and developing a lead line |
| Sunday Morning Hamzaa |
Genre: Contemporary R&B/Soul Key: G#minor Tempo: ♩ = 92 Range: F#3 to B4 |
• Complex melody lines, comprising challenging riffs and runs • Secure and stylistic rhythmic phrasing to track • Confident and varied expression of dynamics and tone colour • Individual communication of the lyrical content and story |
| All Right Now Free |
Genre: Rock Key: A major Tempo: ♩ = 122 Range: F#3 to C#5 |
• Management of suitable tone colours across the registers • Secure melodic phrasing with development on verses • 16-bar vocal solo with stylistic and dynamic expression • Clear and confident articulation of the lyrics |
Candidates are to perform the following scale, as written in the grade book:
| Scale | Starting note | Range | Tempo | Accompaniment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harmonic minor scale | Candidate's choice | 1 octave | 100bpm | Click track |
| Song/Artist | Info | Key Features to Implement at this Grade |
|---|---|---|
| I Care Beyoncé |
Genre: Contemporary R&B/Pop Key: G major Tempo: ♩ = 90 Range: A3 to B5 |
• Well-managed falsetto and/or upper head voice with secure pitching • Confident rhythmic placement to the backing track • Variations of tone colour for stylistic effect • Dynamic expression to support the lyrical content |
| Writing's on the Wall Sam Smith |
Genre: Soundtrack Key: F minor Tempo: ♩ = 64 Range: F3 to D♭5 |
• Well-managed falsetto and/or upper head voice with secure pitching • Confident rhythmic placement to the backing track • Variations of tone colour for stylistic effect • Dynamic expression to support the lyrical content |
| When You Were Young The Killers |
Genre: Alternative Rock Key: B major Tempo: ♩ = 128 Range: E3 to G#4 |
• Confident breath control and management of registers • Use of stylistically appropriate vocal effects • Sustained dynamic control and tone colouring • Powerful and stylistic communication |
| A Night in Tunisia Ella Fitzgerald/ Chaka Khan |
Genre: Jazz Key: Bominor Tempo: ♩ = 136 (swung) Range: F3 to A♭5 |
• Confident management of registers with stylistic tone colours • Rhythmic authority and understanding of timing changes • Expressive techniques and sustained lyrical communication • Extensive development and scat improvisation |
| This Is Me from The Greatest Showman |
Genre: Pop Key: D major Tempo: ♩ = 96 Range: A3 to F#5 |
• Secure management of wide tessitura and projected tone quality • Advanced demonstration of breath control and support • Expressive techniques including wide-ranging dynamic changes • Convincing communication of lyrical content with personalised ad-libs |
| Weak Skunk Anansie |
Genre: Rock Key: E minor Tempo: ♩ = 100 Range: B3 to E5 |
• Secure register blending with maintained projection • Wide variations of dynamics and tone colour • Use of stylistically appropriate vocal effects • Individual development of the melodic content |
| A Song for You Ray Charles |
Genre: Jazz Key: C minor Tempo: ♩ = 56 Range: A♭2 to C5 |
• Use of wider tessitura with confident register changes • Rhythmic and stylistic security to backing track • Advanced development of the melodic content • Use of a range of expressive techniques to convey lyrical content |
| Rise Up Andra Day |
Genre: Pop Key: Db major Tempo: ♩ = 58 Range: A♭3 to A♭5 |
• Well-managed register changes and use of wide tessitura • Confident rhythmic phrasing to track • Stylistic melodic phrasing with personalised riffs • Strong communication of the lyrical content |
| Kiss from a Rose Seal |
Genre: Pop Key: G major Tempo: ♩ = 44 Range: D3 to C5 |
• Complex melody lines, comprising challenging pitches and intervals • Variations of rhythmic phrasing within a feel • Stylistic expression, including variations in dynamics and vocal tone • Individual communication of the lyrical content and story |
| I Have Nothing Whitney Houston |
Genre: Contemporary R&B/Pop Key: G major Tempo: ♩ = 51 Range: G3 to F#S |
• Secure melodic phrasing with personalised melismas and riffs • Rhythmic and stylistic confidence with a g feel • Management of a wide-ranging tessitura including a key change • Expressive performance and development of the notated vocal part |
Candidates are to perform the following scale, as written in the grade book:
| Scale | Starting note | Range | Tempo | Accompaniment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chromatic scale | Candidate's choice | 1 octave | 100bpm | Click track |
Source : Rockschool Vocal Syllabus Specification, 2021 Edition....
Learning outcomes describe the skills and knowledge that candidates will be able to demonstrate during the exam. Grade Examinations reference all three learning outcomes below, whereas Performance Certificates only require the first outcome to be met:
✔ Perform music in a range of musical styles.
✔ Demonstrate technical ability on an instrument/voice through responding to set technical demands.
✔ Demonstrate musical understanding through a range of set tests.
| Assessment Criteria |
Definition |
|---|---|
| Command of Instrument |
The quality of the sound produced from the instrument, including the consistency of sound/tone and control of sound/tone commensurate with grade. |
| Sync or Pulse |
Alignment of the performance to backing track, metronome, or applied to a solo performance, observing notation markings. For unaccompanied pieces, candidates should maintain a secure internal pulse and adjust the pulse where instructed within the music. |
| Accuracy and Understanding |
Representing the written notation accurately, except by instruction through performance notes, or interpreting the written part with equivalent skills demonstrated. Secure understanding of musical structure evidenced through transitions of phrases, bars, and sections. |
| Style and Expression |
An expressive and commanding performance of the notated material dictated by the demands of the performance piece. |
| Assessment Criteria | Grading Criteria and Mark Range | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Distinction (18-20) |
Merit (15-17) |
Pass (12-14) |
Below Pass 1 (6-11) |
Below Pass 2 (0-5) |
|
| Command of Instrument | Consistently clear production of sound and even tone quality throughout | Mostly clear production of sound and even tone quality overall | Some clear production of sound and generally even tone quality | Sound produced is unclear with uneven quality of tone produced | No attempt and/or incomplete performance |
| Sync or Pulse | Performance consistently synchronized to the music, or an internal pulse maintained | Performance mostly synchronized to the music, or an internal pulse maintained | Performance sometimes synchronized to the music, or an internal pulse maintained | Performance not synchronized to the music, or an internal pulse not maintained | No attempt and/or incomplete performance |
| Accuracy and Understanding | All of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout | Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall | Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated | Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated | No attempt and/or incomplete performance |
| Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time | Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time | Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time | Understanding of musical structure not evidenced | ||
| Style and Expression | Consistently convincing projection of the music | Mostly convincing projection of the music | Some convincing projection of the music | Music not projected convincingly | No attempt and/or incomplete performance |
| Assessment Criteria | Grading Criteria and Mark Range | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Distinction (13-15) |
Merit (11-12) |
Pass (9-10) |
Below Pass 1 (4-8) |
Below Pass 2 (0-3) |
|
| Command of Instrument |
Consistently clear production of sound and even tone quality throughout | Mostly clear production of sound and even tone quality overall | Some clear production of sound and generally even tone quality | Sound produced is unclear with uneven quality of tone produced | No attempt and/or incomplete performance |
| Sync or Pulse |
Performance consistently synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained | Performance mostly synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained | Performance sometimes synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse maintained | Performance not synchronised to the music, or an internal pulse not maintained | No attempt and/or incomplete performance |
| Accuracy and Understanding |
All of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated throughout | Most of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills demonstrated overall | Some of the written music accurately performed or equivalent skills generally demonstrated | Written music not accurately performed or equivalent skills not demonstrated | No attempt and/or incomplete performance |
| Understanding of musical structure shown all of the time | Understanding of musical structure shown most of the time | Understanding of musical structure shown some of the time | Understanding of musical structure not evidenced | ||
In the exam you will be playing 3 songs and technical exercise. Each piece (song & technical exercise) is marked separately and will be given feedback by Rockschool examiner. This process allows candidates to get feedback about specific aspects of their performance.
| Element | PASS | MERIT | DISTINCTION |
|---|---|---|---|
| Performance Piece 1 | 12-14 out of 20 | 15-17 out of 20 | 18+ out of 20 |
| Performance Piece 2 | 12-14 out of 20 | 15-17 out of 20 | 18+ out of 20 |
| Performance Piece 3 | 12-14 out of 20 | 15-17 out of 20 | 18+ out of 20 |
| Technical Exercises | 12-14 out of 20 | 15-17 out of 20 | 18+ out of 20 |
| TOTAL MARKS | 60%+ | 74%+ | 90%+ |
The attainment bands for Grade Examination are as follows:
| Attainment band | Distinction | Merit | Pass |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mark range | 90-100 | 74-89 | 60-73 |
| Percentage | 90-100% | 74-89% | 60-73% |
Yes. Each instrument has unique framing needs so the examiner can accurately assess your performance.
The Grade exam results will be marked by one of the examiners from Rockschool,, London. They will watch the video and
supporting documents and you can expect the result to be declared in 3-4 weeks (in case if reviews are there, it may take
up to 8 weeks). The examiner will give feedback both in video (as shown below) and as a document.
Sample document copy of the exam result of one of our students is attached for your reference.
Generally it takes 3-4 months for us to receive the original certificate. For students in India, the certificate will come to us and we will dispatch to your respective locations. For all international locations, the certificate will be dispatched directly from Rockschool to the respective student’s residence.
