Singing Exams - Grades
If you or your child love singing and would love to track your progress officially, while earning valuable UCAS points, taking singing lessons for Grades could be the answer.
​
​
Hi, I'm Carrie Griffiths and I've been teaching singers in the Fulham are and online, since 2003.
What are Grades?
Grades are developmental assessments that guide singers through specific singing techniques, musicianship and music theory. Exams are taken periodically and singers are awarded Pass, Merit or Distinction Grades. UCAS points are earned incrementally at each pass Grade.
Grades can be taken in Popular Music (includes songs from the pop, rock, soul jazz, etc, genres), Musical Theatre and Classical. At Secret Vocal Academy we train singers in Popular Music and Musical Theatre.
How Many Grades Are There?
There are eight core grades; some Awarding Bodies have novice grades such as Steps or Debut, and most have a Diploma certificate, which can be taken after Grade 8, or after a certain number of years of professional practice.
How Long Will It Take to Pass Each Grade?
The amount of time it takes to pass a grade depends on a number of things.
Singers who take weekly lessons and who practice and study daily can expect to pass a grade within 4-6 months. Less dedicated singers may take up to a year, or more.
What Are the Benefits of Taking Grades?
Grades are developmental assessments which enable singers to track their progress.
Passing Grades can boost self esteem, confidence and increase motivation, in addition to developing professional knowledge, experience and discipline.
As previously mentioned, singers accrue UCAS points, which can be used in applications to Further and Higher education.
Singing in itself has been proven to enhance physical, mental and emotional well being.
How Do I Know If I’m Good Enough to Take Grades?
If you love singing and are committed to your development, you can take Grades. Just like anything else, it takes regular practise to improve. We will create a bespoke practice routine to help you develop your vocal, performance and theory skills.
What If I Don’t Want to Learn Music Theory?
No problem! Performance Certificates allow you to be assessed on just your vocal and performance ability, with no need for theoretical knowledge.
While the UCAS points awards are slightly less than full Grades, it’s still well worth taking Performance Certificate exams.
What is an Awarding Body?
An Awarding Body is the organisation that assesses your skills and provide your certificate. There are a number of Awarding Bodies in the UK, including RSL, ABRSM and Trinity. Similar to A-Level, BTEC and UAL, all Awarding Bodies carry equal status.
Great! How Do I Get Started?
To get started on your exciting journey, book your FREE Vocal Assessment today!
Secret Vocal Academy
I am a professional singer and qualified voice coach with more than twenty years of experience. I have performed in more than thirty countries to audiences of up to 30,000 and sold three international top ten albums, including a Number One.
​
I completed Grades in both Popular Music and Musical Theatre, before completing a degree in Popular Music Performance (Vocals) at ICMP, London's top music college.
With professional and academic teaching qualifications (PGCE and RSL Teaching Licentiate) I have taught as a Music Lecturer on Further and Higher education courses for more than ten years.
​
I love helping singers to develop the professional and personal confidence to achieve their dreams and have worked with thousands of singers and musicians who have gone on to have prosperous music, media and performing arts careers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Take Singing Lessons Online?
​
In a word, yes! You don't need any extra equipment, jut your device and a relatively quiet space.
My online singing students have experienced great success and really enjoy online singing lessons. My first ever online student was a Hong Kong singer. He secured a place at the highly-regarded Leeds Conservatoire after taking online singing lessons for just one year.
​
Furthermore, my online singing students have achieved Distinctions in their Grades, Worked professionally and secured international tours.
​
Our results have proved time and again that online singing lessons work for singers of all levels. An added bonus is that online singing lessons can be recorded on Skype, saving memory space on your device. Even if you're a beginner, online singing lessons can work for you. ​​
​
Do I really need a vocal coach?
​
A trained, understands how your voice works as an instrument and can help you to undo old habits and create new habits that help you to avoid causing long term or even permanent damage to your voice.
​
With more than twenty years of professional singing and performance experience and vocal training qualifications from both RSL Awards and ICMP music college, I know how your voice works as an instrument and understand the intricacies and nuances of individual voices.
​
How many singing lessons will I need?
​
It depends on your starting point, your goals and your level of commitment.
On average it takes around three years of weekly singing lessons for committed singers to go from complete novice to professional standard.
​
How much do singing lessons cost?
​
We have a range of programs for serious singers. Our most successful singers are on our Platinum program (£1,500). Our most popular package is £600 and complete novices enjoy our £30 package.
​
During your Vocal Assessment we will discuss where you're at right now, your goals and your needs and agree a suitable program for you.
​
Can I take in-person singing lessons?
There are a limited number on in-person singing lessons which can be taken at Dance Attic in Fulham.