How To Prep For Digital Exams
Digital music exams are becoming more popular every year, giving students a flexible, comfortable way to showcase their skills from a familiar space. At Good Vibes Music Academy in Newbury, we prepare hundreds of young musicians for Trinity Rock & Pop digital exams, and we know exactly what helps them feel confident, calm, and ready to record their best performance.
So here’s some tips from GVMA Pro Guitar Teacher - David
Play with a backing track early and often
In most digital music exams you will not have an accompanist. Instead, you will perform with a backing track or a click, and timing is everything.
To prepare:
• Practice with the exact Trinity Rock & Pop track you will use
• Make it part of your weekly routine so it feels natural
• Use headphones or speakers that clearly separate your sound from the track
2. Beat “Red Light Syndrome” before the camera rolls
One of the biggest hurdles in digital exams is Red Light Syndrome—the sudden nerves that appear the moment the record button turns red. Even confident players can freeze.
The best solution is practice recording:
• Film short clips regularly
• Ignore mistakes and delete them
• Get used to the feeling of being watched
The more normal it is to play on camera, the easier the real exam will feel.
3. Re record wisely (and avoid the perfection trap)
One major benefit of Trinity Rock & Pop digital exams is the ability to record another take. Use it. If you have a major stumble, try again.
However, do not fall into the loop of endless retakes. Students almost always perform best during the first few attempts when energy and focus are high.
Aim for:
• Confident playing
• Strong musicality
• Natural performance
not robotic perfection.
4. Read the Trinity Rock & Pop digital exam guidance carefully
Every exam board has its own requirements, and Trinity is no exception. Before recording, make sure you understand the guidance on:
• camera positioning
• audio levels
• permitted materials
• submission requirements
5. Do a full sound and video check before you perform
Many digital exam issues come from avoidable technical problems. Before you record your actual performance, test your setup:
• Ensure the instrument is clear and balanced with the backing track
• Check that your full playing area is visible
• Keep lighting bright and even
• Remove background noise and distractions
A five minute test can save you hours of retakes later.
How Good Vibes prepares students for digital exams
Digital exam prep is built into our weekly lessons and Star Levels programme, which is designed to prepare students for the Trinity Rock & Pop grades naturally and gradually over time. By the time they are ready to submit, students understand the expectations, know their material deeply, and feel confident recording.
Our teachers are all pro musicians with real gigging experience, and our structured approach helps young players stay motivated, focused and excited about progressing through grades.
Ready to get started?