Sixteen-year-old Richmond music student Bernice Xiao will be doing her annual piano exam from her home due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) is holding its practical exams virtually through smartphones, iPads or computers for the first time in 134 years.
RCM examinations are considered a national standard in North America for students, parents and teachers to track a musician’s progress and achievements.
Xiao is one of many musicians across North America who has taken her written theory exam and is now preparing for her Associate Diploma (ARCT) practical piano exam.
“It’s still a bit nerve-wracking to take the exams, but it’s great to be able to do so in the comfort of my own home,” said Xiao.
“However, given the situation, the fact that I’m still given the opportunity to take the exam and engage in my musical studies is a blessing.”
Practical exams are often held at designated locations with musicians being tested on prepared musical pieces, reading music on the spot and more.
According to Peter Simon, president of RCM, the COVID-19 pandemic was a “serious threat” to musical studies and they weren’t expecting to launch online exams and courses so soon.
“We hadn’t intended to launch digital exams until next year, but it was the only option available,” said Simon, adding they had to make sure students could complete their certificates.
“Our teams responded quickly to develop new methods and implement additional support to offer many of our programs digitally and to find unique approaches to reach our communities.”
He added that after lots of feedback and surveys, more than 80 per cent of music students wanted to take the exams virtually.
“I think they love it because they can do it from their own home, whereas families who live far from an examination hall don’t have to stress about travel time. The online system probably reduced anxiety and complications to a certain level.”
