International Music Exams
ISM Finland prepares students for optional ABRSM, MTB, and Rock School exams, which assess various aspects of musical ability through internationally-recognised learning standards.
Exam Choices:
Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ARBSM)
ABRSM (The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music) is an international organisation that offers standardised classical exams for many instruments and all levels of musical ability in over 90 countries. ABRSM performance exams focus on a classical recital program that is recorded and sent for assessment.
Music Teachers' Board (MTB)
The Music Teachers' Board (MTB) exams are online exams for classical music students provided in over 50 countries. MTB practical exams comprise of a Recital section, Technical section and in most cases a Musicianship section. In addition to performance skills, MTB Practical Grades assess a broad array of technical and musical skills such as scales and sight reading.
RSL RockSchool
Whether you are taking your first steps on your instrument, moving into further/higher education, or perfecting your advanced instrument technique; a RSL Rockschool Exams will not only improve your playing ability, but expand your technical proficiency and give you a solid grasp of music theory – all whilst learning some of the most iconic tracks from the world of popular music.
Comparing the different exams:
All exams provided to ISM Finland students are online assessments that include recording a video with help from your teacher. Each of the exams provided are internationally-recognized assessments and generally take place at the end of each spring semester (in May / June).
However, there are significant differences between exams:
- For classical music
- Grades 1-8, plus an initial grade for piano and bowed strings
- 30 instruments
- Restricted repertoire options
- Assesses performance skills
- Assessed by qualified assessors
Designed for
Classical music students who want an assessment of performance skills
- For classical music
- Grades 1-8, plus two preparatory grades
- 15 instruments
- Expanded repertoire options
- Assesses performance, technical, and musicianship skills
- Assessed by instrument specialists
Designed for
Classical music students who want an assessment of performance, technical, and musicianship skills
- For pop & rock students
- Grades 1-8, plus two preparatory grades
- 8 instruments: Guitar (acoustics and electric), bass, drums, keyboard, piano, ukulele, and vocals, as well as music production and theory
- Assesses performance skills
- Assessed by experienced musicians
- Has a band option for ensembles
Designed for
Pop/rock students who want to track their progress
Pricing for Exams
Pricing for exams fluctuates every year, and pricing is generally available at the beginning of the year for exams taking place in the spring.
Questions about Exams?
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