Violin
About LCME Violin 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 LCME Violin syllabus 2021
The new LCME 2021 Violin Syllabus and handbooks are now available, featuring fresh new repertoire as well as updates to discussion topics and revisions to technical work.
The new handbooks are packed with all the material you need for each exam component and can be purchased from our online shop.
Changes and Updates
Updates to scales and arpeggios include changes to slurred bowing requirements, new double stopping tests and the introduction of broken third scales at all grades. New studies have also been selected for candidates who choose the study alternative.
The discussion component has been tailored more closely to violinists to encourage a deeper understanding of the instrument, which is essential to evolving as a performer.
Alongside the specimen tests, the handbook now also offers greater guidance for candidates (and their teachers) around the sight reading part of the exam, with the inclusion of a new set of parameters.
The 2021 syllabus provides a well-rounded programme of study that allows performers to play to their musical strengths whilst encouraging them to explore repertoire they might not otherwise have encountered.