London College of Music Examinations

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London College of Music Examinations (LCM Examinations) is an examinations board offering graded and diploma qualifications in music, and in drama & communication.^[1]

Formerly the external examinations department of the London College of Music, it is now a department of Thames Valley University and is based in Ealing, west London.

It is one of four examination boards accredited by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA) to award graded and diploma qualifications in music on the UK National Qualifications Framework, along with the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music, Trinity Guildhall, and Rockschool. It is one of four boards accredited to award qualifications in drama & communication.

The mapping of LCM Examinations onto the NQF means that candidates applying to UK universities through the UCAS system can increase their points tariff if they have been awarded a Pass or higher at grades 6-8 in accredited subjects.

In addition to its work throughout the UK and Ireland, LCM Examinations has a significant international operation, particularly in South-East Asia.^[2]

The current Director of Examinations is Professor John Howard (appointed 2000). The Chief Examiner in Music is Andrew McBirnie (appointed 2002), and the Chief Examiner in Drama & Communication is Jocelyn Lord (appointed 2005).

[edit] Graded Examinations

Graded exams are numbered 1-8, with 8 being the highest standard. An exceptionally wide range of subjects is available: in music, graded exams are offered in piano, all orchestral instruments, jazz (wind, brass and piano), theory, singing, classical guitar, electronic keyboard and organ, drum kit, percussion, popular music vocals, Irish and Scottish traditional music, composition and chamber ensemble. Examinations in electric, bass and acoustic guitar and popular music theory are offered in partnership with the Registry of Guitar Tutors.

Pre-grade 1 examinations are offered in certain subjects. Additionally, a 'leisure play' option exists for candidates who wish to take a more performance-based, less 'academic' route through the graded exams.

A range of exams in drama & communication includes speech & drama, acting, public speaking, verse speaking and oral communication.

Examinations in music theatre and early learning represent a partnership between the music and drama subject areas.

[edit] Diplomas

Diplomas are offered at four levels: the Diploma of the London College of Music (DipLCM), the Associate of the London College of Music (ALCM), the Licentiateship of the London College of Music (LLCM), and the Fellowship of the London College of Music (FLCM). These qualifications permit the holder to append the qualification's letters after their name (for example, "Forename Surname LLCM").

Diplomas in performance and teaching are accredited at levels 4-7 of the National Qualifications Framework, and are available in a wide range of subjects covering classical, jazz and traditional music genres. Additionally, LCM offers diplomas in composition, conducting and theory, and by thesis.