Requirements
Exam Requirements
CBE is purely performance based, for as much as we recognise the benefits of scales, technical work, aural, sight-reading, theory and musical knowledge, we believe the ultimate goal for all performers is to deliver a beautiful performance.
From Preliminary Grade to Fellowship Diploma, all you need is to present 3 of your chosen pieces.
| Piece Requirements |
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| Time Requirements |
There are no time constraints for the grade exams. The Diploma exams will need to satisfy the following minimum time limits:
If the three pieces chosen do not meet the minimum time requirement, we will accept two pieces submitted as one video to meet the minimum time requirement of the diploma grades. In this case, a total of four pieces will be marked however the weighting of the two shorter pieces will be equivalent to one. Repeats may be performed at the performer's discretion, however Da Capo directions should be observed. Please ensure that all videos were recorded within 6 months of the exam submission date. All videos must be submitted within 1 month of the exam enrolment. |
| Supported Platforms |
Currently, the supported browser is Google Chrome, Firefox and Safari. |
Video Requirements
Audio Clarity: While recording fidelity is not a direct grading criterion, audio clarity significantly impacts how the examiner perceives your performance. Please record in a quiet space with clean, direct sound so your playing can be evaluated accurately and fairly.
Framing & Visibility: Candidates must look directly at the camera for 3 seconds before starting. The camera angle must clearly capture the student's entire body, the entire instrument, hands on the keys, and face throughout the performance. Submitting a video where any of these elements are obscured, or that does not clearly capture the student's whole body and full instrument, may render the performance unassessable and lead to an unsuccessful result.
Resolution: A video resolution of 720p is recommended to optimize upload speeds; the minimum acceptable resolution is 480p.
Integrity & Editing: The submission must be a single, unedited take. Any form of post-production—including audio manipulation or effects, video splicing, virtual backgrounds, or beautification filters—is strictly prohibited. Failure to adhere to these requirements may result in forfeiture of the exam without a refund.
Supported Platforms: Currently, we accept videos uploaded on the following platforms: YouTube, Google Drive, Dropbox, Vimeo, Bilibili and Youku.
The location of recording can be a professional venue or even your own room. For keyboard, both acoustic and electrical instrument are accepted as long as it covers the appropriate range and dynamics required in your music.
Playing from memory is encouraged, however if you wish to play with the score or a tablet, this is also accepted as long as page turning doesn’t interfere with the performance.
Candidates must use an original, lawfully purchased edition of any sheet music that remains protected by copyright, which is generally until 70 years after the composer’s death. Photocopies or other unauthorised reproductions are not permitted. If there are reasonable concerns that copyright has been breached, the examination result may be deemed unsuccessful.
For recommendations about suitable editions, please contact us please contact us.
We encourage candidates to be accompanied by professional accompanists, however, backing tracks are also allowed. Please also ensure that your instrument is tuned accurately as it will have an impact on the quality of the exam.