AMEB Exams
Formal examinations can be great motivators if treated right. If a parent or student wishes, I can conduct them through an exam. The ultimate decision on whether to enroll a student and at what grade to enroll them is up to me, though.
AMEB exams are 12-20 odd minute exams. They are examined by professional musicians and are of a high standard. The principle components are:
- Technical work (scales, arpeggios, etc.)
- Set pieces (three prepared pieces)
- Extra list pieces (a number of other pieces which do not have to as well prepared as the first)
- Aural (rhythm and pitch tests)
- General Knowledge (musicological questions based upon the set pieces)
- Other tests- sight reading, transposition
- Other components are required in the higher grades.
If you do undertake an exam, here are a few points you will have to consider:
- AMEB exams require that all music be from original copies and as such these must be bought. Piece for grades 1-4 are in the same book, however, and only the one book is needed for all of these grades. A separate scale book is required. It is also recommended to buy an aural book if help is needed in the area.
- An accompanist is required for any exam. Depending on the grade and on how well the student is doing, you will need to rehearse with your accompanist 2-4 times before the exam. Rehearsals are usually charged for at a lower fee than the performance itself. Find an accompanist as soon as you get the time of your exam as they can often be booked. Check here for a list of accompanists.
- The exam fees for most grades are between $50- $80 depending on the grade. Remember to factor in the cost of books and accompanist to the overall cost of the exam.
- I can provide extra lessons closer to the exam time if requested and if it fits into my schedule.
- Students should ensure that they don’t miss out on any practice if they are doing an exam. Work prepared for exams is to be of a high standard and due diligence is required to ensure this. If I think a student has not been putting in enough effort before an exam, I may withdraw them from the exam.
- The AMEB is very strict in regards to its scheduling. Once an exam is scheduled, the time or place cannot be changed, as long as it is reasonably scheduled. The AMEB do not refund exam fees.
- Although it can be frustrating, I am only told of the exam’s date and time a month beforehand. I will tell you as soon as I receive the time. If you want to know the time before I am notified by mail, there is nothing I can do. I have tried in the past but the AMEB does not release these details early.
- Ensure I give you a copy of the rules from the AMEB syllabus. This goes into the regulations of the exam in great detail.
- Arrive early to your exam. The AMEB requires you to register your presence at the desk 10 minutes before the exam. Try to get there half an hour beforehand, though.
- Clean your sax the night before the exam. Prepare some new reeds the night before.
The preceding information and more can be downloaded.
