ABRSM vs Trinity vs Rockschool: Grade Exams Guide - The Riff Music Academy
If you're a parent wondering which guitar grades are best for your child, you're in the right place.
At The Riff Music Academy, one of the questions we're asked most often is:
"Should my child take music grades? And if so, which exam board should we choose?"
Whether your child plays classical guitar, electric guitar, or acoustic guitar, understanding the different grading systems can feel overwhelming.
In this guide, we'll explain everything you need to know about ABRSM, Trinity College London, and Rockschool grades, so you can make the best decision for your child's musical journey.
What Are Music Grades?
Music grades are internationally recognised qualifications that assess a student's musical ability and progress on their instrument.
They provide a structured learning pathway and allow students to work towards achievable goals while developing their technical and musical skills.
Depending on the exam board and instrument, a grade may assess:
Performance
Technique
Scales
Sight Reading
Aural Skills
Musical Interpretation
Music grades are an excellent way to measure progress and build confidence.
How Do Grades Work?
Music grades are divided into progressive levels:
Initial Grade (beginner level)
Grade 1
Grade 2
Grade 3
Grade 4
Grade 5
Grade 6
Grade 7
Grade 8
Each grade becomes progressively more challenging, helping students develop their technique and musicianship step by step.
Which Instruments Can You Take Grades In?
Although this article focuses on guitar, grades are available for many instruments, including:
Classical Guitar
Electric Guitar
Acoustic Guitar
Piano
Drums
Violin
Viola
Cello
Woodwind Instruments
Brass Instruments
Singing
Music Theory
What If My Child Loves Contemporary Music?
Many parents assume music grades are only for classical musicians.
Fortunately, that's no longer the case.
If your child enjoys playing:
Rock
Pop
Blues
Indie
Funk
Metal
There are fantastic exam boards specifically designed for modern musicians, including Trinity Rock & Pop and Rockschool (RSL Awards).
These qualifications focus on contemporary repertoire while developing strong technical and performance skills.
How Do Students Take the Exams?
Each grade requires students to complete an examination.
Today, most exam boards offer multiple ways to take these exams.
Digital Exams
Digital exams have become increasingly popular.
Students record their performance—often during a lesson with their teacher—and upload the video to the exam board's online platform.
An official examiner then watches the recording and awards the final mark.
This option offers flexibility and allows students to perform in a familiar environment.
Face-to-Face Exams
Students perform live in front of an examiner at an official exam centre.
Depending on the exam board, the assessment may include:
Performance pieces
Scales
Sight Reading
Aural Tests
This is the traditional exam format and is still preferred by many students.
How Do Students Prepare for Guitar Grades?
Each grade has its own official syllabus and learning materials.
Lessons typically focus on developing:
Technical ability
Musical expression
Accuracy
Rhythm
Performance confidence
Exam preparation
With the support of an experienced teacher, students gradually build the skills needed to succeed.
How Much Do Music Grades Cost?
Exam fees vary depending on:
The exam board
The grade level
Whether the exam is digital or in person
Generally speaking, higher grades cost more than beginner levels.
For the latest exam fees, visit the official websites of:
How Do You Book an Exam?
Exams are booked online through the relevant exam board's website.
Bookings can be made by:
Parents
Teachers
Music schools
At The Riff Music Academy, we are happy to manage the entire booking process for our students, making the experience as simple and stress-free as possible.
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