Do students need to take exams?

No, exams are optional. Some students learn for enjoyment, while others choose to work towards exams as a goal.

Which exam system do you prepare students for?

I prepare students for AMEB exams.

 What piano exams does AMEB offer ?

Piano Comprehensive Face-to-face examination

This exam is available for all grades, from Preliminary Grade to the LMus Diploma level and is conducted at the AMEB venues. As the name "Comprehensive" suggests, there are many components tested in the exam, so it requires longer preparation. Students will need to perform a wide range of technical exercises, 4 to 6 pieces from the AMEB Comprehensive Piano syllabus (depending on the piano grade/level), sight reading, aural skills and general musical knowledge.

There are TWO enrolment periods for this exam each year (except for the Diploma level):

• 1st session: Enrolment between January and March for the exams held between April and June.

• 2nd session: Enrolment between April and August for the exams held between October and November. Students can choose to take exams outside of these times for an additional fee set by the AMEB.

Piano Repertoire Face-to-face exam

This exam is available from Preliminary Grade to Grade 8, is conducted at the AMEB venues, and follows the same schedule as the Piano Comprehensive F2F exam. It requires students to present ONLY the pieces, selected from the AMEB Comprehensive Piano syllabus , without the other components found in the Piano Comprehensive exam, which are as follows:

• FOUR pieces for Preliminary to Grade 4

• FIVE pieces for Grade 5 to Grade 8

Piano For Leisure Comprehensive Face-to-face examination

This exam is available from Preliminary Grade to the Certificate of Performance, is conducted at the AMEB venues, and follows the same schedule as the Piano Comprehensive F2F exam. In this exam, students will need to present a wide range of technical exercises, 3 pieces from the AMEB Piano For Leisure syllabus, a choice of either the sight reading or the aural skills, and general musical knowledge. 

Piano For Leisure Repertoire Face-to-face examination

This exam is available from Preliminary Grade to Grade 8, is conducted at the AMEB venues and follows the same schedule as the Piano Comprehensive F2F exam. In this exam, students will need to perform 4  pieces from the AMEB Piano For Leisure syllabus, without any other components found in the Comprehensive exams.

Piano Repertoire Video examination

This exam is exactly the same as the Piano Repertoire F2F exam outlined above. The only difference is that this exam is done by recording the performance at the teacher's studio or the student's home, hence the name is "Video Examination".

Just like the Comprehensive Piano Exams, this exam is also available TWICE a year: 

• 1st session: Enrolment between January and June.

• 2nd session: Enrolment between July and October

The videos must be submitted within 21 days of enrolment.

Piano For Leisure Repertoire Video examination

This exam is exactly the same as the Piano For Leisure Repertoire F2F exam outlined above and  follows the same schedule as the Piano Repertoire Video Examination.  

Which exams should I choose for my children?

The best exams for your children will depend on their current skill level, interests, and goals. It's also important to consider the type of music they enjoy and the flexibility of the exam schedule.

Video exams have become very popular among students due to their less demanding preparation and greater scheduling flexibility. However, Piano Comprehensive exams can provide a more well-rounded musicianship, especially to those who plan to pursue music as a career.  

How long does it take to reach each grade?

This varies depending on the student’s pace, consistency of practice, and individual ability. From my experience, students with regular parental support at home often progress more efficiently and tend to achieve stronger results.

What results do your students typically achieve?

Students who practise consistently and follow guidance generally achieve very good results (Honours or Distinction), as strong preparation is emphasised.

Do you prepare students for performances or competitions?

Yes, I can prepare students for performances, which are valuable for building confidence and musical expression.