Can you believe it? We are already over two thirds of the way through the academic year and, for most music teachers and students, the summer term is often the main focus for achieving the next grade qualification. But what can you do to prepare for your exam and how can you get the most out of your experience whilst staying stress-free? Our National Development Manager for Independent Schools & Private Corporate Sector, Jen Flatman, shares her top tips for getting exam ready.
I have been preparing and supporting candidates for Trinity exams for many years now and, whilst practice is clearly important, I often find it can be the smallest things that can help your exam go well. Below I have come up with some simple ideas that can make a difference to your exam experience:
Live accompaniment or backing tracks?
For the majority of Classical & Jazz face-to-face exams, performing with a live accompanist is mandatory. If you are using an accompanist for your exam, you should always arrange to rehearse with them before the exam day in order to give the best to your performance. Remember, you will only have a short time to warm up on the day at most venues.
If you're using a backing track, don't forget to check what playback equipment is available at the venue in advance and to bring the track or tracks with you.
Consider page turns
Do any of your pieces have a page turn? If so, how will you manage this? Have you practised the page turn so that you can make it seamlessly? Alternatively, you could photocopy the page and secure it to your book (perhaps by using tape) to stop it falling onto the floor mid-exam.
Please note that page turners are permitted for some instruments at the higher level grades, but not all. Please refer to your instrumental syllabus for more information.
Have a run-through or two
Whether you're taking a digital or face-to-face exam, practising your performance in order, from beginning to end, a few times before your final performance can be a great way to build stamina and prepare you for playing to a camera or examiner. It can also really help you to practise the dynamics in your piece. Why not invite a friend or family member to be your audience and hear how talented you are?
Get your paperwork ready in advance
Make sure that your appointment slip is printed ahead of time, filled in and placed together with any supporting photocopies of your music you may need, ready to hand to the examiner.
Don't forget your instrument!
This might seem silly but do check that your instrument is in its case and that you have it with you when you are on your way to the exam centre. It does happen on occasion that empty cases arrive at the centre whilst the instrument is at home, sitting on its stand!
Not all exams (piano, for example) require you to bring your own instrument. If you are unsure, please check with the centre in advance. Contact details for our public centres can be found below:
Classical & Jazz
Rock & Pop
Plan your journey
If you can, allow extra time for your journey to the exam. Getting to the venue and popping off for a tea or coffee beforehand, knowing that you are already nearby, can really help to settle nerves. It's a much calmer situation than feeling stressed sitting in bad traffic, or waiting for a missed train whilst frantically trying to contact the venue at the same time!
The big question: how do I stop feeling nervous?
It is important to remember that nerves just show you care. You need them to perform well, and that little blast of adrenaline is a good thing! Learning how you control your nerves is a different experience for everyone and making them your friend is the key to success. Perhaps try finding your favourite pop songs to listen to through headphones before your exam, or completing a word puzzle to take your mind off of things? For more advice on managing pre-exam nerves, why not see our previous blog: 8 crucial tips on how to beat those pre-exam nerves.
It is quite likely that you will make a small mistake or two during your exam and that's ok - it's perfectly normal! The important thing is: don't panic. It is normal for performers, at all levels, to make mistakes and it doesn't mean that you have automatically failed. Try to keep calm and do your best to continue undeterred.
When you come out of the exam, always try to remind yourself of what went well. There is usually more good stuff in a performance than bad so try to stay positive. And always remember that the examiner is on your side - they want you to do the best that you can too, so there's really no need to feel nervous!
Good luck and I hope it all goes well!
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