How PianoCommuters helps your child prepare for The royal conservatory of music exams

We here at PianoCommuters love to support all those wanting to learn piano, regardless of skill level or previous experience. Some of our students are interested in showcasing their skills through the examinations and certificate programs. One of the ways this can be done is through the Royal Conservatory of Music Exams.

Have you heard about RCM (Royal Conservatory of Music) music levels and exams? If you haven’t, keep reading to learn more about what’s in RCM exams and how we can help support your student if they’re interested in participating in the RCM exams. One of the offerings we provide to students is to participate in the Royal Conservatory of Music preparation and exams.

About RCM Exams

The Royal Conservatory is one of the largest and most respected music education institutions in the world. The RCM program consists of levels 1 through 10 and concludes with an Associate Diploma of The Royal Conservatory of Music (ARCT). On average the RCM exams and courses take 10 years on average to complete.

The RCM levels and exams are designed and structured to build off each other and add to the previous studies. Not all students need to start at 1, however, it’s recommended that students speak to their teachers if they have an interest in the RCM exams to identify where they should start.

RCM exams in the earlier levels can take around 15 minutes total, and in the later and more advanced levels can take 60 minutes for the examination. Please speak with your PianoCommuters piano teacher about the costs of RCM exams, average costs can start from $100 for an exam.

RCM Exams in Covid

Please speak to your Piano Teacher for the most up-to-date information about how exams are being conducted.  Currently, there are RCM virtual exams with an option for the June exams in 2022 to be in-person in addition to the virtual offering.

Once the RCM exam has concluded it can take four to six weeks on average to get theory and practical examination results.

Does my child need to do the RCM exams?

RCM exams are not a requirement for piano lessons and are not necessary for piano learning. They are an option that you can speak with your piano teacher about to learn more about what it would look like for yourself, or for your child.

The exams and preparations take quite a bit of time and dedication, and it is not a goal for all piano players to complete this program.

What can I expect with PianoCommuters RCM exam prep?

Here at PianoCommuters we have experienced teachers who can help support RCM exam preparations. We have practice exams for piano students so they can experience what it feels like firsthand to take the exam. As well, the Royal Conservatory of Music provides a sneak peek inside the examination room for those who are curious about what an exam looks like.

We spend time going through all the parts of the exam to help students feel confident and knowledgeable about the requirements. Included in the exam is Repertoire (songs), Technical Requirements (scales and etudes), Ear Tests, and Sight-Reading. Additional lessons are available if they want extra practice leading up to their exam, or during the preparation time.

Our goal at PianoCommuters is to help make sure our students are confident and feeling ready for their exam. Students may retake an examination as they desire if they’d like to improve their mark or prepare before progressing to the next level. 

I want more information/ to get started!

Great to hear you’re interested in learning more about the RCM exams! Please connect with us via our contact form, or with your piano teacher to learn more about RCM exam registration, preparation, and learning about the royal conservatory of music levels.

If you’re ready to get started then you can speak with our teachers about starting you with RCM piano exam preparations and better understanding the steps needing to be taken towards RCM testing.