Grades

[Callum27]

Im very confused about the grade system regarding bass. I am unsure wether im grade 1, 2 or 3. I know i have done initial grade and grade 1, so does that make me grade 1 or grade 2 or 3?. If it helps here is one of the books we learn stuff from

http://www.ekmpowershop6.com/ekmps/s...de-3-313-p.asp

[Callum27]

bump

[the_fonz]

there's a grades system for bass?

[hunta]

Looks like it's a grading/testing system in the UK. Sounds similar to NYSSMA levels in the states, except for rock music I guess. Personally I use the belt system. 3rd degree black belt of pocket grooves.

[ateyercheese]

Thats right http://www.rockschool.co.uk/rsl/index.aspx. If you've passed grade 1, you are grade 1 certified. Rockschool offers an acreditation parallel to the classical grading system used by the Royal College of Music, although how much merit these grades hold with in the business is yet to be seen.

[dlloyd]

The grading system is fairly useful for charting progress as you're learning an instrument, and they also provide some sort of curriculum for teachers to follow.

Beyond that, who can say what merit they have. They are not officially considered by any colleges providing courses in bass, but it probably wouldn't hurt to have a grade 8 when you apply.

Having looked at the requirements for both the RGT and Rockschool grades, they're significantly easier than those for classical instruments provided by the RCM and Associated Board.

[dlloyd]

Originally Posted by Callum27

Im very confused about the grade system regarding bass. I am unsure wether im grade 1, 2 or 3. I know i have done initial grade and grade 1, so does that make me grade 1 or grade 2 or 3?. If it helps here is one of the books we learn stuff from

http://www.ekmpowershop6.com/ekmps/s...de-3-313-p.asp

If you have completed Grade 1, and have sat the exam and passed, then you have your Grade 1.

If you've worked through the book and can play everything perfectly, but haven't sat the exam then you're not Grade 1.

It's just like A levels and GCSEs. The lack of an A level in Mathematics does not necessarily mean you are bad at maths, but having that A level gives some indication that you have some ability.

[BassChuck]

Are these exams offered publicly, or do you have to be enrolled in an institution to take them? Is there a web site that outlines what is expected for each grade level?

thanks

[dlloyd]

They are publicly available and the exams are held throughout the country (UK). You send in your fee and you go and hopefully demonstrate that you are of a standard set for that grade. I have no idea if they are available outside of the UK. I suspect they aren't.

Edit: They are available... http://www.registryofguitartutors.com/regions/usa.htm


I don't know if there is a curriculum published on the internet, but the books that list the requirements are available from the relevant bodies.

http://www.registryofguitartutors.com/

I notice, by the way, that grades 6-8 can count towards UCAS points (official college/university requirements in the UK), but I guess it will be limited to certain courses.