Rockschool contemporary music syllabuses aim to support quality music education to help prepare you to thrive in the industry. Drummers are supported by the Drums Syllabus, which has been expertly constructed to support your learning goals and develop a high standard of musicianship, along with the ability to jam with your mates!
Each grade is built on the knowledge of those before it but you can start at any point that suits your current knowledge and skills. The syllabus supports learners from beginner to Diploma and features repertoire that:
- is meticulously researched and benchmarked;
- includes tracks from some of the world's greatest artists;
- Introduces and extends instrument-specific techniques.
Exams are internationally recognised and academically rigorous.
What's involved in a Drums exam?
There are two types of exams you can do: Grade Exam and Performance Certificate. The Grade Exam assesses a comprehensive set of learnings. You'll prepare your program of music and technical exercises (eg studies), answer questions on general musicianship, and be tested on aural and sight-reading or interpretation. Alternatively, you could do a Performance Certificate exam, where you perform only your pieces, demonstrating your technique and knowledge through the repertoire. Flexibility exists to choose a range of genres and styles through the tunes in the Grade books, and the Free Choice Pieces broadens your options even further. As long as the piece is the same standard as your Grade, you can choose pretty much anything!
Performance Certificate exams are a great way to get a practice run at your TCE or UTAS exams. In addition to the AMEB qualification, you'll receive constructive feedback and guidance to help in guiding your final preparations for your future performance goals.
What sort of music is in the Grade books?
This syllabus really is contemporary and gets reviewed every few years to keep the tunes and material current. You'll find genres like pop, rock, jazz, country, blues, soul, and reggae. Featured artists include Haitus Kaiyote, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Tame Impala, Pearl Jam, Miley Cyrus, Jamiroquai, Ed Sheeran, Queen, and so many more.
One of the best things about the Grade books is that some of the repertoire overlaps with the Drums and Bass Grade books, too. That means that you can jam and perform with your friends while learning your pieces and preparing for your exam at the same time! There are at least six charts in every Grade book (plus some extra bonus tracks) that you can use for your next jam session.
Can I request a left handed kit?
Yes you can! Just let us know when you enrol and we'll schedule your exam accordingly.
Can I play my own music in an exam?
You sure can! Free Choice Pieces make this one of the most flexible exam options available. As long as they're of the appropriate standard for the grade, and they demonstrate the relevant syllabus criteria, you can play anything that you're working on - that includes your own compositions!
What should I bring to my exam?
Your sticks and music are always essential. We'll supply the basics on the kit and a PA to play your backing tracks through. Any extra cymbals, drums, etc will be your responsibility. To check out what's included in the standard backline, check out our exam day helpful hints.
How is it different to the other AMEB and Rockschool syllabuses?
This is the best part - it's not. You'll find the same grading system informed by industry standards and pedagogy. You'll find lots of fantastic repertoire to engage and support learners across a variety of genres and abilities. Grade book pieces come complete with backing tracks that can be used with the Replay app. You'll even have the same positive and supportive experience in the exam room.
What resources are available?
The syllabus itself is free to download and provides all the information you need to prepare for your exam. That includes explanations of the unseen tests and other assessment elements so you know what to prepare for (and expect in) your exam. To support your learning, find the Grade book that matches where you're at and get playing. These include all the technical work you need to get you set up well, and all the hit tunes that you'll love. Head to our AMEB Online Shop to get your copy today. Want a taste of the syllabus and tunes? Visit the UK Rockschool website (the parent team who design the syllabuses) to download a free Sample Pack including samples of Grade book pieces, exam information, links to supporting audio and more.
Looking for even more repertoire? Check out the Style Vaults.
Can I get TCE bonus points for a Rockschool 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 a Rockschool exam?
If you'd like to do a face-to-face exam, we offer exams in two sessions each year: Session 2 is through June and July, and Session 5 is across October and November. 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.
