Deciding to take a piano exam as an adult can be a difficult one. However, if you’re willing to put in the work, taking an exam can be a rewarding experience. It’s a big commitment with no guarantee that you’ll pass, so, it’s important to be aware of its benefits and drawbacks before deciding.
It’s also important to understand if taking a piano exam aligns to your own goals of what you want to get out of learning a musical instrument.
In this article, I will be talking about some tips, as well as the pros and cons of taking a piano exam as an adult. So if you’re thinking about taking a piano exam, read on!
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Taking Piano Exams As An Adult
It’s not uncommon for adults to take up piano later in life. Maybe you never had the chance as a child, or maybe you’re finally ready to commit to learning an instrument.
Whatever the reason, there’s no better time than the present to start taking piano exams. While the process may seem daunting at first, there are a few things you can do to make it go smoothly.
Benefits Of Taking The Exam
Here are a few benefits of taking a piano exam as an adult:
- You can learn at your own pace: One of the great things about learning piano as an adult is that you can go at your own pace. You don’t have to worry about keeping up with other students in a class, or meeting deadlines for assignments. You can learn at your own pace and take the time to perfect your skills.
- You can choose your repertoire: Most of the time, when taking a piano exam, you get to choose the pieces you play. This means that you can pick music that you enjoy and that shows off your strengths. You don’t have to worry about playing pieces that you don’t like or that are too difficult.
- You can get feedback from a professional: Another benefit is that you’ll get feedback from a professional. They’ll be able to tell you when you’re doing well and where you need improvement. This is valuable information that can help you become a better pianist.
Now that we’ve discussed the benefits of taking a piano exam as an adult, let’s talk about its drawbacks and some tips to help you prepare for it.
Drawbacks Of Taking The Exam
There are a few potential drawbacks of taking the piano exam as an adult.
- It can be difficult to find the time to fit in practice sessions around work and other obligations.
- It can be costly to hire a piano teacher or take lessons, especially if you need to travel to do so.
- There may be some pressure to perform well on the exam, which can add to stress levels.
Tips For Preparing For A Piano Exam
If you’re planning on taking a piano exam, there are a few things you can do to prepare. Here are a few tips:
- Start practicing early: The sooner you start practicing, the better. This will give you more time to work on your pieces and get comfortable with the material.
- Find a good teacher: A good piano teacher can be invaluable when it comes to preparing for an exam. They can help you choose the right pieces, and give you feedback on your playing.
- Get plenty of rest: It’s important to get plenty of rest before your exam. You would want to feel refreshed so that you can focus on playing your best.
Piano Exams Adults Can Take
If you’re an adult who’s interested in taking piano exams, you might be surprised to learn that there are quite a few options available. I listed a few of them below:
- Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM)
The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music, or ABRSM, is an organization that provides examinations in music. It was founded in 1889 and is headquartered in London, United Kingdom. The ABRSM offers examinations at four different levels: Grade 1, Grade 2, Grade 3, and Grade 4. Each level has a different combination of requirements, including sight-reading, aural tests, and playing scales. The ABRSM also offers associate and licentiate diplomas, which are similar to university degrees.
- Trinity Guildhall (now Trinity College London)
For aspiring pianists, the Trinity Guildhall piano exams are the gold standard. Offered by Trinity College London, these exams are recognized internationally and are a major step on the road to becoming a professional musician. The exam itself is quite challenging, testing candidates’ technical skills, repertoire knowledge, and sight-reading ability.
- Certificate of Merit from the Music Teachers’ Association of California
The Certificate of Merit from the Music Teachers’ Association of California is an annual award that recognizes outstanding young musicians. The award is given to students who have demonstrated excellence in both performance and academics. To be eligible, students must first pass a rigorous examination that covers both theory and practical skills. The award is given out each year at the association’s annual conference, which is held in Los Angeles.
Note: You may also do your research on other local piano exams you can take.
What Is The Point Of Piano Exams?
For many people, the idea of taking a piano exam conjures up images of intense pressure and stress. However, exams can be a great way to assess your progress and keep you motivated to continue learning. Granted, there are drawbacks and things to consider first before actually committing or knowing if this is the right step to take.
To put it simply, they are a way of assessing your progress and setting goals for the future. It is important to remember that exams are only one part of the learning process. They should not be used as a means of comparing your progress with other people.
Instead, use them as an opportunity to assess your progress and set your own goals. With that in mind, there is no need to stress about taking piano exams. Just relax and enjoy the process of learning.
Final Thoughts
There are many reasons why an adult should take a piano exam, as well as a few drawbacks. It can be a great way to improve your skills, and it can also give you a sense of achievement.
If you’re thinking about taking an exam, make sure to do your research and choose the right one for you. With thorough practice and preparation, you’ll be ready to take on the challenge. Good luck!
