Tips for Exam Preparation

If you are thinking of doing the exams, I've just got a few tips for you from an examiner's perspective.

Be Prepared

The first tip is to be as prepared as you can possibly be.

• It can feel a little bit stressful.
• You might find yourself walking into a room and playing pieces that you've performed in your bedroom or to your friends, but now in front of a complete stranger.

Just remember that the examiner wants you to do as well as you can possibly do. They're not there to catch you out.

Practice Under Pressure

From your perspective, it's crucial to acknowledge the extra pressure you'll feel on exam day. Here are some strategies to help:

Warm-Up Performances

• Perform in front of your parents or friends at home as a little warm-up exam.
• Consider running a mock exam with your teacher under exam-style conditions. This can mentally prepare you for how the experience will be slightly different from playing at home alone.

Technical Exercises

Another way to boost your confidence is with your technical exercises:

• Rather than just learning them up to the required exam tempo, push that just a little bit further.
• For example, if the required tempo is 100 bpm, try to practice at 120 bpm so that you enter the exam with the knowledge that you can handle it even if the pressure increases.

Conclusion

By implementing these two simple strategies, you can make your exam experience go a little smoother on the day. Remember, preparation helps alleviate pressure, and confidence can make a significant difference!