If your child is taking instrumental or vocal lessons with Shropshire Music Service (SMS), the opportunity to take graded music exams is available, and we make the process clear, straightforward, and supportive.
SMS is accredited for board examinations by ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music), Trinity College London, and RSL.
Whether your child is aiming for their first certificate or higher grades, we can enter them for both in-person exams and online.
Examination entries are organised on a termly basis, giving plenty of time for pupils to prepare with guidance from their tutor.
Once you let us know that your child would like to take an exam, we’ll send you full details of the exam boards available, fees, entry deadlines, and the exam format – whether in-person or online.
All administration is handled by our office, making the process as easy as possible for families.
You’ll simply complete a short entry form, and we’ll take care of registration, scheduling, and communication with the exam board.
Taking exams gives pupils formal recognition of their progress, adds real value to their learning, and provides achievable goals that keep motivation high.
The preparation process, learning set pieces, scales, sight-reading, and aural tests also helps build technique, musical awareness, and confidence.
Many students say the first exam they take is one of the most memorable steps in their musical journey.
Entry is optional. Exams are there to support learning, not add pressure.
Talk to your child’s tutor to understand when they’re ready and which board suits them.
There are no hidden costs from SMS, you’ll be given full fee details in advance.
If your child prefers to focus on performance, composition, or playing for fun, that’s also fine, exams are just one of many pathways.
Of course you may have questions that you would prefer to talk to us about.
Please call 01743 874145 to have a chat with our friendly team who can help guide you.
Music exams are an exciting milestone in a pupil’s learning journey, offering recognition for their progress and a clear sense of achievement.
At Shropshire Music Service, we make the process simple and supportive, ensuring every pupil feels prepared and confident when the time comes.
Here you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions parents and carers ask about graded music exams.
If you’d like more information, please speak with your child’s tutor or contact our office.
Shropshire Music Service (SMS) works with three of the UK’s leading music exam boards: ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music), Trinity College London, and RSL Awards. These boards are nationally and internationally recognised for their high standards and supportive approach.
Each offers slightly different styles of examination, from traditional classical pathways to contemporary and performance-focused routes. Tutors will help families choose the most suitable board based on the pupil’s learning style, musical interests, and goals. For example, ABRSM may suit pupils who enjoy formal structure and sight-reading, while RSL might appeal to those playing rock, pop, or modern genres.
We can also advise on the choice between digital and in-person exams, giving families flexibility to find what works best for them.
Readiness depends on more than just playing ability, it’s about confidence, consistency, and understanding. Tutors will assess when pupils feel secure in their pieces, scales, and aural work, and can perform them fluently and with enjoyment.
There’s no fixed timeline. Some pupils progress quickly, while others prefer more time to consolidate skills. Tutors may organise informal mock performances or recorded run-throughs to help pupils experience what an exam feels like in a calm, supportive way.
We always encourage exams as a celebration of achievement rather than a source of pressure. When your child is ready, they’ll know, and their tutor will be right there to guide them.
Most in-person exams are held at a convenient location in Shrewsbury, which provides a professional yet welcoming setting for pupils.
For those who prefer flexibility, several exam boards also offer digital exams, where pupils record their performances and submit them online. This can be particularly useful for busy families or pupils who feel more confident performing in their own space. SMS handles all the administration and supports families throughout the process, whichever format they choose.
Music exams are offered each academic term, providing three main sessions per year. This means there’s always another opportunity on the horizon, and no need to rush. Tutors will plan ahead with pupils to select the right time based on progress and preparation.
Once you express interest, we’ll send you details of fees, entry deadlines, and exam dates. SMS manages all communication with the exam boards, ensuring everything runs smoothly from start to finish.
Once results are released, exam boards contact you directly with the outcome and their feedback. Successful candidates receive a certificate, which is a fantastic way to celebrate progress and showcase achievement.
Tutors go through the examiner’s comments in detail, highlighting what went well and what could be developed next. Even when an exam is challenging, pupils come away having learned more about themselves as musicians.
Exams can also contribute to wider learning goals, including UCAS points for higher grades, and are valuable additions to school and college portfolios. But most importantly, they remind pupils that practice, dedication, and passion always lead to growth.
