Develop your classical technique to prepare you for opera, oratorio, or whatever you'd like to sing.
The Singing syllabus focuses on developing technique in the traditional classical style - a tried and true method to help achieve basically any performance goals - but with contemporary vocal pedagogy and wellbeing.
What kind of music is in the syllabus?
The syllabus is designed for all ages to explore popular repertoire that includes:
- vocalises
- arias
- song cycles
- traditional songs
- lieder
- cantatas
- songs in a variety of languages
- and many other well-loved classics.
How does the Singing syllabus differ from the other Voice syllabuses?
The key difference is the repertoire. The Singing (or 'classical') syllabus provides a platform for the development of the classical musician. If you want to use that as a basis for great technique but explore more contemporary genres, take a look at the Singing for Leisure Syllabus. Musical Theatre is also based in classical technique but focusses entirely on the repertoire and skill development of the musical theatre genre. There's also the Rockschool Vocals syllabus, which is purely contemporary both in technique and repertoire.
Singing is most closely aligned to the Singing for Leisure Syllabus, sharing Technical work and many exam aspects. Apart from the styles of repertoire and genres available for performance, here are a few other key differences between the two:
- When doing a Comprehensive exam, the Technical Work for both syllabuses comes from the same place: the Singing Syllabus. Singing for Leisure uses only a subset of them are required in that exam.
- An Own Choice Work can be part of the program of a Singing Repertoire Exam, however, in Singing for Leisure, you can also select Own Choice Works in Comprehensive exams. This is in recognition of the breadth of music available under the for Leisure umbrella of genres.
- Comprehensive exams in Singing and Musical Theatre include both Aural and Sight-reading tests. In a Singing For Leisure Comprehensive exam, you get to choose one or the other.
- The Singing syllabus goes all the way up to Level 3 - Diploma exams - whereas Singing for Leisure rounds off at the Certificate of Performance. However, both can be used to develop the skills to take on a Diploma.
The number of works and their sources vary slightly between each syllabus and grade. We always recommend referring to a current syllabus to ensure you're prepared for all exam requirements.
How can I choose works to match my range?
For most List songs, you can transpose the music to suit you. The Syllabus includes some guidance on this, including the exceptions. But do make sure that you're not changing the intention of the character by doing so - this isn't just for syllabus reasons but also to ensure you're not infringing any relevant copyright law.
Grade books are available in both high and low voices but there's no restriction on which book you use. At Grade 7, the Lists start to offer specialised repertoire for the various voice types: soprano, mezzo-soprano, contralto, countertenor, tenor, baritone, and bass-baritone.
Can I do exams in Singing as well another syllabus?
Yes, you absolutely can! You don't actually have to choose. And why not? If you're keen to explore multiple genres, go for it! You can even chop and change to suit your passions and learning goals as there are no prerequisites (until Diplomas - check the relevant syllabus for more details). The grades are benchmarked to be of very similar standard so the skills you're developing will support you in either. Of course, there are some specific techniques that you'll be expected to know (if you swap over down the track) but that's nothing you can't handle!
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). You can use recorded accompaniments (up to Grade 3 in most syllabuses) to practice as well as use in your exam. Our publications also include the Technical Work books, and 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.
If you're wanting to take your vocal technique and knowledge to the next level, check out our Speech and Performance Theory Syllabus. It will give you a deeper understanding of how the voice works and the mechanics that will help you convey your music.
In addition to developing your singing, you can learn highly sought-after life skills like:
- gain confidence
- learn languages
- improve diction
- stage presence
- musicality and theory
What else do I need to know about the Singing Syllabus?
Vocal health is of paramount importance and the longevity of skills developed should always be considered. The Syllabus includes recommended minimum ages for Candidates but overall maturity of the learner and their voice should always be considered. As a guide, the Syllabus recommends starting with Preliminary at 11 years old, with an average of one Grade per year after that.
Can I get TCE bonus points for my Singing 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 my Singing 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 record 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.
