Curriculum and Disciplines

The Royal Conservatory Certificate Program provides a recognized national standard of musical success through an effectively sequenced course of study from beginner to advanced levels. The Program inspires excellence through individual student examinations and allows students to celebrate accomplishment and track their progress with others across the country. It also supports teachers with high-quality and innovative resources.

A Comprehensive Curriculum of Musical Development Encompassing:

Repertoire

• Each level includes a broad selection of pieces representing a variety of styles and periods.
• Repertoire selections are leveled progressively in difficulty.
• Periodic reviews of the repertoire keep the selections fresh and innovative.
• Teachers and students can add favorite pieces through the Teacher’s Choice and Own Choice selections.

Technique

• Each level of technique is designed to support the demands of the repertoire for that level.
• Technique includes scales, chords, arpeggios, patterns, and études.

Musicianship

• Musicianship is developed through a thoughtful and consistent approach to the development of reading and aural skills.
• Musicianship skills are developed in conjunction with repertoire goals and requirements.
• Musicianship skills give students a solid foundation for independent creative musical explorations.

Musical Literacy

• The Certificate Program’s academic subjects support students in acquiring the theoretical and historical knowledge necessary for music literacy.
• Theoretical levels are tied to practical (performance) levels, reinforcing concepts encountered in repertoire, technique, and musicianship studies.
• At-the-keyboard examinations of keyboard harmony and musicianship present students with an opportunity to develop skills in improvisation and composition.

Disciplines Supported

Practical Examinations

Practical Examination candidates are tested on the performance of repertoire, studies and technique. Ear training and sight reading requirements help develop and reinforce solid musicianship skills.

Practical Examinations are offered in the following subjects:

Theory Examinations

Theory Examinations, designed to complement practical studies, begin at the Level 5 practical level and are written in a formal classroom setting.