Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) Exams
Canada's national music certification system
Why It Matters
RCM grades are formally recognised by Canadian universities. Completing RCM Grade 8-10 demonstrates years of disciplined study and is a verifiable credential that stands apart from simply being in band.
How to Start
Register for lessons and exams through The Royal Conservatory of Music website. Exams are offered twice yearly in most Canadian cities.
Commitment
- High commitment: several hours a week, often with evenings, weekends or travel.
- Best starting grade: G7
- Start lessons in G7 or G8 to realistically reach Grade 8-10 RCM level by G12.
Programs It Supports
- Music
- Arts
- Education
- Psychology
Majors it supports
- Music – Audition-based - academic average requirements are lower but performance level is critical
- Education (BEd) – high 70s to high 80s
- Psychology – mid to high 80s
Similar extracurriculars
- School Drama / Theatre Production – Perform, direct, or produce school plays
- School Band / Orchestra / Choir – Perform in a school ensemble long-term
- Visual Arts Club / Portfolio Development – Build a body of work in visual art
- CBC First Page Student Writing Challenge – CBC Books' national creative writing challenge for G7-G12
- Film & Photography Club – Shoot, edit, and produce visual stories
- School Play / Musical Director – Direct or stage-manage the annual school production
- Yearbook Editor-in-Chief – Manage a massive year-long design and publishing project
- Mural Painter / Beautification Committee – Design and paint permanent artwork in school hallways
- Improv Team / Comedy Troupe – Compete in local improv games or perform at lunch