Drumming Grades and Exams
Robbie has Grades are a great way to learn a range of skills that drummers need (including the less popular sight reading!), helping you become a well-rounded musician. That said, I will usually take a student through grades along side other subjects, such as technique, improvisation and concepts to deepen understanding which aren't necessarily covered in the exams.
A major benefit of grades is the structure and easy to track progress, plus you can earn recognised qualifications as you go. Rockschool for example are on the QCF and grades 6, 7 and 8 are worth UCAS points.
As Europe's No.1 rock music exam board, Rockscool are a popular choice. They also cover many other genres with their pieces, especially as you progress, so you can certainly diversify stylistically if you prefer. Rockschool grades are especially applicable to the contemporary approach, and as of 2018 also include commercial tracks along side their own generic play alongs.
All my students have achieved a 100% pass rate, but it is also completely up to you if you wish to take the exam or not; it's helpful material either way.
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Trinity offer drum kit and percussion grades which give drummers a range of authentic styles to master, including jazz, funk, show tunes, film, TV, Latin, reggae and swing, as well as Rock and Pop grades that are similar to Rockschool's. You may prefer their approach to technical studies or their song choices.
Both Trinity and ABRSM snare drum exams are also available for those who wish to focus on hand technique and rudimental pieces.