Practical exams
AMEB offers graded examinations for a range of musical instruments (including voice) covering classical, popular and contemporary styles and techniques. In general, practical examinations comprise the presentation of work in the following areas: technical work; studies and pieces; aural tests; sight reading and general knowledge.
Syllabuses
Each instrument subject has a corresponding syllabus which outlines the requirements for an examination. AMEB syllabuses set educationally appropriate goals across a wide range of musical instruments, from beginner level through grades 1 to 8 and onto diploma level. Instrument syllabuses contain the information required in order to prepare for a practical exam, including technical work requirements, repertoire options, objectives and information regarding aural tests, sight reading and general knowledge. Candidates may select from a broad range of repertoire in the manual lists, AMEB grade books and CPM course books, including compositions by Australian and regional composers. Our syllabuses are regularly reviewed by specialists with a national profile in their instrument to reflect current pedagogical best practice. For more information on a specific syllabus, choose from the list below.
AMEB Syllabuses:
| Keyboard & Percussion | Strings | Woodwinds | Brass | Voice | Contemporary Popular Music | Theory, Teaching & Ensemble | Speech & Drama |
| Accordion | Cello | Bassoon | Bass Trombone | Singing | CPM Bass | Ensemble | Speech & Drama |
| Classical Guitar | Clarinet | Band | Singing for Leisure | CPM Drum Kit | Music Craft | ||
| Organ | Double Bass | Flute | Euphonium | Musical Theatre | CPM Guitar | Musicianship | |
| P Plate Piano | Harp | Oboe | Horn | CPM Keyboard | Teaching | ||
| Percussion | Viola | Recorder | Trombone | CPM Vocal | Theory of Music | ||
| Piano | Violin | Saxophone | Trumpet | Rockschool | |||
| Piano for Leisure | Saxophone for Leisure | Tuba |
Examinations
Practical examinations are held throughout the year in many locations across Australia. Each candidate who completes an AMEB exam receives a personal written report from their examiner, and successful candidates will also receive an official certificate recognising their achievement. For more information on enrolment, exam dates and locations, contact your local AMEB State Office.
Fellowship in Music, Australia - reintroduced in 2020.
For details on how to enrol in a FMusA exam please visit this page.
Why do an exam?
Setting goals
Having a clearly defined goal can be a powerful motivating force. AMEB syllabuses set educationally appropriate goals, and examinations are an opportunity for students to measure themselves against these goals. Performing in front of others also helps to develop poise and confidence.
Progress through feedback
Each candidate who completes an AMEB exam receives a personal written report from their examiner. This independent feedback encourages the student to progress by highlighting areas of strength and weakness under performance conditions to help guide students in their development.
Recognising achievement
Each successful AMEB candidate receives an official certificate recognising their achievement. An AMEB certificate is a tangible reminder of a milestone achieved and a source of great pride.
Examiners
Examinations are conducted by highly trained examiners who are specialists in their field. Each candidate who completes an AMEB exam receives a personal written report from their examiner. Find out how to become an examiner.
Publications
AMEB offers a range of quality publications to support students and teachers preparing for exams. AMEB publications are a cost effective and convenient way to purchase a range of repertoire. They are produced within Australia to the highest editorial standards and often feature compositions by Australian and regional composers. AMEB publications are available from our Online Music Shop or from your local music retailer. To find out which publications you may need, select your syllabus above.
