How to prepare for your first exam

Written by GVMA Pro - Lawrence

The Good Vibes Guide to Feeling Ready, Confident and In Control

Taking your first music exam is a huge milestone and at Good Vibes Music Academy we want every student to step into that exam room feeling calm, capable and excited to show what they can do. Whether you are working through our Star Levels or gearing up for your first Trinity Rock & Pop exam, these tips will help you feel fully prepared the Good Vibes way.

Build a Routine That Works for You

Progress comes from consistency. You do not need marathon sessions to improve. Ten focused minutes each day will take you far further than one long session twice a week.
The key is routine. Pick a time of day you can stick to. Many of our students choose straight after dinner or before school. Once it becomes part of your daily rhythm the momentum builds on its own. This is how small efforts turn into big breakthroughs.

Practise Performing, Not Just Playing

The biggest difference between playing at home and playing in an exam is the feeling of performing. A great way to prepare is to create tiny “recitals” for family or friends. Play your pieces back to back just like you will in the exam.
It recreates just enough pressure to help you learn how to stay steady, stay focused and keep going even if something feels a bit wobbly. Performing is a skill and like everything else it improves the more you do it.

On the Day: Arrive Ready, Not Rushed

Start your exam day with a good breakfast and give yourself plenty of time to arrive, tune up and settle in. Ask your teacher what they recommend doing in the warm-up period. Some students play through scales. Some prefer a few key riffs. Do what keeps you centred.

If nerves kick in use our favourite de-stress technique:
Breathe in for 4 seconds. Hold for 5 seconds. Breathe out for 6 seconds.
Do this before you play each piece if you need to. The examiner will wait. You are allowed to take your time.

Show What You Can Do (and Enjoy It)

Remember an exam is not a test of perfection. It is a chance to show everything you have learned. You have put the work in. Now enjoy playing the music you have grown with.

Afterwards: Let It Go

Once the exam is done go and do something fun. Do not replay mistakes. Your examiner’s feedback will come soon and you will go through it with your teacher to plan your next steps.

To find out about the next exam period or for information about taking your grade exam with us click here.