Recital Grades offer candidates the opportunity to enter for graded exams focusing entirely, or predominantly, on performance. The exam comprises:

• Four pieces (chosen from the graded lists), and
• EITHER a fifth piece OR sight reading OR discussion

Pieces do not have to be chosen from different lists, allowing flexibility in repertoire selection.

Assessment bands are as follows:

• 85-100% - Distinction
• 75-84% - Merit
• 65-74% - Pass
• 0-64% - Unsuccessful

In the UK, LCM's recital grades are regulated by Ofqual, Qualifications Wales and CCEA at Levels 1, 2 and 3 of the Regulated Qualifications Framework, and UCAS points are awarded for Grades 6–8.

LCM's recital grades are now also included on the European Qualifications Framework (EQF).