ABRSM vs. RCM vs. NYSMMA: Which Music Exam is Right for You?

Piano exam

The Difference Between ABRSM, RCM, and NYSSMA?

Navigating your child’s musical journey can be both exciting and challenging. Have you ever wondered if just weekly piano lessons are enough to achieve their musical goals? If not, what’s the next step? In the world of music education and certification, three piano exams often pop up in conversations with piano teachers: ABRSM, RCM, and NYSSMA (for New York State only). If you’re curious about what these mean or which one to choose, you’re not alone. ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music), RCM (Royal Conservatory of Music), and NYSSMA (New York State School Music Association) are well-known organizations and examination bodies in the field of music education, each representing a unique gateway to musical achievement and recognition.

Why should my kids take piano exams?

Taking a piano exam serves the purpose of assessing a student’s progress and skill level, providing motivation and structured goals, offering valuable feedback and guidance, and leading to recognized certifications, enhancing learning, and preparing individuals for piano performances and potential career opportunities. It can be a significant milestone in a student’s musical journey, fostering personal growth and accomplishment while ensuring a comprehensive and well-rounded musical education. We always encourage our students who show consistency and are ready to take the next step in their musical development to participate in the piano exam.

So, what is the difference between these piano exams?

Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM)

ABRSM is one of the most recognized music examination boards worldwide, founded in 1889 and based in the UK. It offers exams ranging from the Prep Test, which serves as an introductory level, to Grades 1 through 8, as well as diploma certifications for a wide range of instruments, singing, and music theory. ABRSM is considered one of the most prestigious music examination boards globally.

ABRSM exams cover a broad spectrum of skills, with each level building on the previous one. The Prep Test serves as an introduction, aiming to boost students’ confidence and offer a positive first exam experience without the pressure of grades. In the graded exams, students are assessed on performance, where they prepare three pieces from set lists provided by ABRSM, with options for their own choice pieces at certain levels. Technical requirements include scales and arpeggios, which increase in complexity as students progress through the grades. Sight-reading is a key component of the assessment, testing a student’s ability to perform a piece they have not previously seen. Aural skills are evaluated at every level, focusing on tasks such as rhythm and melody recall, identifying musical features, and pitch recognition.

For students wishing to continue beyond Grade 8, ABRSM offers diploma levels: ARSM (Associate of the Royal Schools of Music), DipABRSM, LRSM (Licentiate of the Royal Schools of Music), and FRSM (Fellowship of the Royal Schools of Music). ABRSM regularly updates the syllabus to keep the repertoire fresh and relevant, helping students learn and perform pieces that reflect current standards in music education. Since the COVID period, ABRSM introduced a performance-only exam option, where students submit recordings of four performance pieces, focusing solely on performance without covering the usual technical, sight-reading, and aural skills components.

PROS

  • Global Recognition: ABRSM is highly respected and recognized internationally, making it a great choice if you’re looking for a qualification that’s acknowledged worldwide.
  • Structured Curriculum: The syllabus is well-organized, progressing from beginner to advanced levels and includes a clear framework for students to follow.
  • Comprehensive Skills Assessment: Exams test performance, scales, sight-reading, and aural skills, ensuring a well-rounded music education.

CONS

  • Intensity: The exams can be quite rigorous, which may be overwhelming for some students, especially those who are new to formal assessments.
  • Limited Flexibility: ABRSM has a set syllabus and specific exam requirements, which can feel restrictive if you prefer a more tailored or varied approach to music learning.

Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM)

Based in Canada, the Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) offers a graded examination system that is similar to other major music examination boards, with levels ranging from Preparatory Level to Level 10 and culminating in the Associate Diploma (ARCT). The RCM originally established its examination board as part of its broader educational offerings, which have since expanded and are now recognized under The RCM Certificate Program. The levels include Preparatory A and B, followed by Levels 1 through 10, and the ARCT, providing a structured pathway for students to develop their musical skills progressively.

The RCM exams assess students on a variety of components to ensure a well-rounded music education. Students are required to perform 3-5 pieces, alongside technical requirements such as scales, arpeggios, and etudes, which increase in difficulty with each level. The exams also include sight-reading and ear training, which form part of the aural skills assessment. Ear training covers a range of tasks, including melody playback, chord identification, and rhythmic dictation. Additionally, students have the option to take theory exams, which complement the practical assessments and support the development of a comprehensive understanding of music theory and performance.

PROS

  • Comprehensive Feedback: Provides detailed feedback, which is beneficial for student growth.
  • North American Focus: Highly respected in Canada and the USA.
  • Well-Rounded Education: Emphasizes both performance and musicianship, with optional theory exams integrated into the curriculum.

CONS

  • Cost: RCM exams tend to be more expensive compared to other boards.
  • Regional Recognition: While well-known in North America, it’s not as globally recognized as ABRSM.

New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA)

NYSSMA is a music assessment program specific to New York State, USA. It offers performance evaluations primarily for school-aged students. It’s conducted in a festival-style format where students receive feedback and ratings.

The levels range from 1 to 6, with Level 6 being the most advanced. Students are typically required to perform one to two pieces and may also be assessed on scales, depending on their level. A sight-reading component is included in the evaluation, which tests a student’s ability to perform a previously unseen piece. Unlike ABRSM or RCM, NYSSMA places less emphasis on aural skills and primarily focuses on performance. All the materials for NYSMMA is compiled in one binder, which contains all the approved materials and choices of music for the exams. This binder can be purchased, providing students and teachers with a centralized, comprehensive resource for selecting appropriate repertoire, making it easier to prepare for the exams with clear guidance on acceptable pieces.

PROS

  • Local Accessibility: Ideal for students participating in New York State school music programs.
  • Flexible Repertoire: Offers more freedom in choosing pieces within specific guidelines.
  • Approachable for Beginners: With lower levels accessible to beginners, it’s less intimidating for students new to formal assessments.

CONS

  • Limited Scope: Recognition is largely confined to New York, making it less ideal for those seeking credentials with wider acceptance.
  • Performance-Focused: Less comprehensive compared to ABRSM or RCM, with minimal emphasis on theory or aural skills.

When choosing between ABRSM and RCM or even NYSSMA, it’s essential to consider your goals, your teacher’s recommendations, and your location for the NYSSMA exam if you are based in New York State. If you value international recognition and a structured curriculum, ABRSM could be the best fit for you. For those in North America looking for detailed feedback and a holistic approach, RCM is a strong contender. Meanwhile, NYSSMA offers a more localized, flexible option for students within New York State. You may also want to consult with your music teacher or instructor to determine which examination system aligns better with your musical aspirations and the specific requirements of your education or career path.