Classical Guitar
About LCME Classical Guitar Exams
Exam levels
- Pre-grade 1: Steps 1&2
- Grades 1-8
- Performance diplomas at four levels: DipLCM, ALCM, LLCM and FLCM
- Teaching diplomas at three levels: DipLCM, ALCM and LLCM
Exam formats
Alongside traditional graded exams, we also provide alternatives to our standard examination format designed to offer something different to our diverse range of candidates:
- Graded exam – performance of three pieces, technical work, sight reading, a discussion and aural tests.
- Recital Grade – an exam entirely or predominantly performance-based
- Leisure Play – a performance of four pieces, with an optional own-choice piece
- Performance Award – a performance-based assessment by video submission
- Concert – (diplomas level only) an entirely performance-based exam
New syllabus 2022
The new LCME 2022 Classical Guitar Syllabus and handbooks are now available, featuring new repertoire as well as updates to technical requirements and discussion topics.
The new handbooks contain all the material you need for each exam component and can be purchased from our online shop. Please note that candidates must perform at least one piece from the handbook in their exam.
Changes and Updates
LCME's 2022 Classical Guitar Syllabus contains reworked technical exercises and our most varied guitar repertoire ever. Composers from over 30 nationalities are represented in the new syllabus, which includes exciting new discoveries alongside recognised masterpieces and specially commissioned pieces.
Early pre-grade levels are designed to accommodate smaller hands, allowing young candidates to explore their instruments fully. Steps 1 and 2 also contain duos and ten exercises to consolidate left and right-hand techniques while staying within the first three frets. For the first time, duo pieces are now available from Step 1 through Grade 8.
The 2022 repertoire features pieces from South America, Spain, Africa, Jamaica, North America, and Japan, including many specially commissioned original works and arrangements, as well as compositions by Laura Snowden, Maria Linnemann, Tatiana Stachak, Gloria Villanueva, Helen Sanderson and Ailbie McDonaugh.
Both Technical Work and Sight Reading components have also been reworked. Choosing a study as an alternative to the scales, arpeggios and interval exercises is now an option in all grades. These studies are designed to showcase specific techniques that will be encountered in later components.
The new handbooks also come with additional Sight Reading and Aural sample tests offering greater guidance for candidates and teachers alike. An expanded Discussion section now includes more questions relevant to the instrument, with the goal of broadening the candidate's knowledge of their subject through dialogue with the examiner.
Validity
Please note that the new 2022 syllabus is now valid for examinations.
Resources
- LCME 2022 Classical Guitar Handbooks
- Alternative pieces available for download
- Duo accompaniments available for download
- Recommended listening: Grade 2, Grade 3, Grade 4, Grade 5, Grade 6, Grade 7 and Grade 8
Diplomas
- Classical Guitar Diploma Syllabus
- Classical Guitar Diploma Repertoire List
- Classical Guitar Teaching Diploma Syllabus
Also available
Book your LCME Classical Guitar exam now
New guitarists sometimes need help understanding the differences between classical guitars and acoustic guitars. They are different instruments with different LCME syllabuses and, therefore, different exams.
Please check that you are entering the right exam. If you’re unsure which exam you should enter, please look at the title of your Grade book. Alternatively, you can speak to your local rep, check with your teacher, or get in touch with us directly - contact us.