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Bass Guitar
About LCME Bass Guitar Exams
There are eight LCME Bass Guitar grades, plus two introductory levels and three teaching diplomas.
The standard graded exams consist of a performance, scales and arpeggios, bass patterns, musicianship and aural assessment (there is also specialism for Grades 6 to 8).
We also provide alternatives to our standard examination format designed to offer something different for our diverse range of candidates:
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Recital Grade – an entirely performance-based live exam
New own-choice options for Bass Guitar exams
From 5 October 2026, candidates can choose their own music for some parts of in-person Graded Bass Guitar exams.
Candidates can now play a piece of their own choice instead of a Bass Patterns exercise. For Component 3 (Performance), they can improvise over their own piece or backing track instead of a given chord sequence. Own-choice pieces must be of a similar standard and duration, and can include pieces set by other exam boards regulated by Ofqual.
Candidates must give the examiner a copy of the music for any own-choice piece before the exam begins. The existing requirements still apply. Recorded exams have their own requirements.
Resources
- Bass Early Grades Handbook (PDF)
- Bass Intermediate Grades Handbook (PDF)
- Bass Advance Grades Handbook (PDF)
- Audio Downloads
Book your LCME Bass Guitar exam now
Our Bass Guitar exams are run by the Registry of Guitar Tutors (RGT). They offer in-person and digital exams. Click below to book your exam now: