Examinations

The Ulster College of Music has a strong history of music exam success and regularly enters students in exams with the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music, Trinity Guildhall, the London College of Music alongside GCSE Music exams with CCEA. Exams are not compulsory for students studying at the UCM but can give lessons a focus and allowing the student to see progress.

The UCM has an experienced team of professional tutors who can offer not only the instrumental tuition required to pass exams but extra tuition in Music Theory, Exam Aurals and Sight-Reading as well – this can prove highly beneficial to the student.

Why do exams?

The positive aspects of exams are that:

• They give a real focus and purpose to practice.

• An exam is a performance opportunity!

• Working on pieces for exams also means you have prepared pieces ready for auditions, festival classes or concerts.

• Great preparation for GCSE and A- Level Practical Exams.

• Grades 6 – 8 confer UCAS points which are useful when applying for university places.

• Exam success builds confidence!

Playing for Pleasure

The Ulster College of Music prides itself on its commitment to the enjoyment of music and to this end encourages students who are not keen on exam entry to play for pleasure. This can be equally rewarding as entering exams, and allows the student to progress in their chosen instrument at their own pace with no pressure hanging over them. Many current students prefer to play for pleasure and gain great confidence in their playing ability through this approach.

The College hosts the UCM Playing for Pleasure Orchestra which meets weekly on a Thursday evening – all are welcome to join, irrespective of their experience or exams passed.

Feel free to get in touch with the office with any queries at info@theucm.com