The Recorder syllabus is designed to help you develop the technical and musical skills and understanding you need to play musically across a range of styles.
What sort of pieces are in the Syllabus?
Traditional repertoire from the baroque and surrounding periods is a feature of the Syllabus, and where the vast majority of great works have been written. But these classical (and well loved) pieces are paired with modern and interesting contemporary compositions. The pieces align to the technical work, which progressively develops key concepts and technique to build on, and broaden, the base knowledge required to demonstrate and achieve musicality. You'll see repertoire Lists with focuses on works like unaccompanied, Baroque and Classical, Romantic and Post-Romantic. At Level 3, you can even submit a proposal to perform your own choice of music for List D.
Can I do an exam on different recorders?
The Recorder Syllabus allows for you to perform on either descant or treble Recorder as you begin learning. As the exams progress, a wider range of instruments are available (and expected):
Level 1: Choose either treble or descant, or a combination. Your Extra List pieces can be performed on any recorder.
Level 2: Both treble and descant are required in the exam program, plus you can choose any recorder to perform your Extra List pieces on.
Level 3: The choice of instruments is up to you! The only requirement is that you perform on at least two different recorders.
What pitch am I expected to play at?
We normally expect A440, which is largely due to both modern standards and the tuning of pianos available for your accompanist. If you wish to play at another pitch, you're welcome to do so but you'll need to provide your own accompanying instrument for any accompanied pieces.
Can I be accompanied on something other than piano?
You can always expect a piano will be provided for your accompanist, but you may wish to use something else, such as a lute, guitar, or harpsichord. Availability of harpsichords is dependant on the venue and some other operational limitations so make sure you contact your friendly team in the AMEB Tasmania office well ahead of your exam to see what's possible and to help us ensure your accompanist has what they need.
What resources are available?
Each Syllabus outlines the objectives and requirements for each exam so that's always the best place to start. There are also books housing collations of repertoire to provide cheaper access to sets of List pieces (the Grade books), which are available from Preliminary to Grade 4. Also supporting the Recorder Syllabus is the Technical Work books, and there are even practice books to help you with your aural and sight-reading skills. Head to your favourite local music retailer or the AMEB Online Shop for these and more.
What is the Certificate of Performance exam?
It's an exam that's designed to partially bridge the gap between Grade 8 and AMusA, and provide a capstone to Level 2. The CoP is a recital-style exam, like the Diplomas, but is a natural continuation of skills from Grade 8. We have a Spotlight article dedicated to Certificate of Performance exams here, if you're keen to find out more.
Can I get TCE bonus points for an Recorder exam?
Yes you can! And that goes for any AMEB exam, including all Rockschool and PAA syllabuses. In fact, all practical exams are eligible for TCE bonus points from Grade 4 onwards, as well as Theory Grade 2+.
When can I do an Recorder exam?
Our face-to-face exams are available in the June/July and October/November sessions. Alternatively, you can do a Video exam absolutely any time that suits you. To find out more about exam dates, head to our Exam information page.
I have more questions.
That's great! We'd love to help with those. Please feel free to browse the other great sources of information on our website or get in touch to find out more.
