Grade One
A basic awareness of influential popular music groups, vocalists and instrumentalists from 1950 onwards (from a pre-set list of four comprising: The Beatles, Elvis Presley, The Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix).
Grade Two
An awareness of influential popular music groups, vocalists and instrumentalists from 1950 onwards (from a pre-set list of four comprising: Chuck Berry, Led Zepplin, David Bowie, Madonna).
Grade Three
- A knowledge of influential popular music groups, vocalists and instrumentalists from 1950 onwards (from a pre-set list of four comprising: James Brown, Eric Clapton, Michael Jackson, Nirvana).
- A basic knowledge of instruments commonly used in popular music.
- A basic knowledge of common musical signs and terminology.
Grade Four
- A knowledge of influential popular music groups, vocalists and instrumentalists from 1950 onwards (from a pre-set list of four comprising: Bob Dylan, The Sex Pistols, Bob Marley, Pink Floyd).
- A good knowledge of instruments commonly used in popular music.
- A good knowledge of common musical signs and terminology.
Grade Five
- A broad knowledge of influential popular music groups, vocalists and instrumentalists from 1950 onwards (selected by the candidate from pre-set lists shown below) together with an awareness of how their music was influenced by performers from earlier periods.
- An in-depth knowledge of instruments commonly used in popular music including: their ranges and functions; an understanding of transposing instruments; a basic knowledge of specialist notation systems including guitar and bass tablature and drum notation.
- A broad knowledge and clear understanding of common musical signs and terminology.
Grade Six
In-depth questions on the history of popular music from 1950, designed to determine candidates understanding and knowledge of popular music styles.
Grade Seven
As for the previous grade, but in greater depth, plus a wider knowledge of the history and development of popular music dating back before 1950, where necessary, and including the influence of technological developments.
Grade Eight
As for the previous grade, but in greater depth, and with a wide knowledge of the history and development of popular music throughout the 20th century, including the influence of other forms of music and the societal contexts.
