Graded Music Exams
Welcome to Rockschool New Zealand
Rockschool has lots to offer with both Face to Face and Video exams being available throughout the year.
The new Vocals syllabus is out now!
Graded Music Exams
Master your instrument, find out what level you’re at or simply earn a globally recognised qualification that’s truly valuable whether you’re in Auckland or Invercargill.
Music Theory
Become a more skilled, articulate and confident musician. Rockschool’s Popular Music Theory Grades will expand your musical theory knowledge, develop your compositional skills, and you’ll gain an internationally recognised qualification.
Free Choice Piece
Free Choice Pieces can be used in all Rockschool Grade Examinations and Performance Certificates, from Debut to Grade 8. There are no Free Choice Pieces for Premiere (Let's Rock) exams.
Performance Diploma
Rockschool’s Performance Diplomas are your entry to music qualifications at a professional level. Focusing on truly industry relevant content that covers the whole package of being a working rock and pop musician.
Looking for some Exam Tips and General Information?
Choose your Instrument
Vocals
Piano
Keys
Acoustic Guitar
Electric Guitar
Bass
Structure your approach to Learning
Choose Your Weapon
We're passionate about all the major rock instruments. Whether you're an indie guitarist, metal drummer or pop pianist we've got a grade exam for you!
The world’s best rock and pop grades
Rockschool released its first guitar, bass and drums Grade Exams in 1991 to offer rock and pop musicians the same access to qualifications and training as traditional musicians.
Rock and Pop Grades for all levels and abilities
We'll take you from complete beginner to professional standard at a pace that suits you. We've made sure the learning curve is gradual, challenging and rewarding.
A true measure of your musical ability
A Rockschool Grade is a true gauge of your playing and musical ability. What you’ll learn is tailored to fit real-world music situations and your exams are based on your performance.
Specialist styles to suit your musical tastes
Our performance pieces are focused on the most popular contemporary genres and written to put every ounce of your technique and performing ability to the test.
Play Free Choice Pieces in your exams
At each grade you can pick your own songs as well as Rockschool's own compositions. The choice is yours, just bring the sheet music and backing tracks to your exam.
Graded Music Exams
Perform to the highest standards, when it matters most
Since 1991 Rockschool has been developing unique graded music exams for the contemporary musician. Take a grade exam with Rockschool and you’ll learn all the chops, licks, technique and musical theory you need to become a pro-level musician.
Popular Music Theory
Become a more skilled, articulate and confident musician
Rockschool Popular Music Theory grades will teach you everything you need to know about musical theory, quickly and simply. Expand your popular music theory knowledge, develop your compositional skills and become a more skilled, articulate and confident musician.
Performance Diplomas
Amplify your music teaching and performance credentials
Tailored to the needs of the established musician, Rockschool’s Teaching and Performance Diplomas will arm you with the necessary qualifications to prove yourself as a qualified instrumental teacher or professional gigging musician.
Simple Steps Completing a Rockschool exam is a rewarding experience and we can get you on the path to success in no time. To get started, simply grab your book from your nearest retailer.
Internationally Recognised
All exams conducted are recognised across different music standards around the world.
Highly Recommended
Rockschool exams are highly recommended by musicians and teachers alike.
Global Certification
We provide global certification to all our candidates.
High Standards
All our exams are prepared and examined by highly trained music professionals.
Video Exams
Video Exams are here to stay!
To see what will work best for your students on our Video Exam page.