How important to get musical certificate?

[dora96]

One of my friend has finished grade 8 about 6 years old ago. Recently he took on AMBE Diploma exam, but he didn't pass. He is brilliantly classical player and performer. I was very surprised that he failed the exam. I just wonder how important to get the qualification to prove that you have reached that level. He said he can play very well in front of general public, but in the exam he always feel the pressure and uncomfortable to be judged by examiner. His result was so close to pass. I said that he can take another exam, it is not the end of the world.

If you know someone can play the high level classical music but they don't have certificate to prove that what you are. Would you learn from that person? Or you would rather to learn from someone has lots of titles, but can't perform the music.

[quantum]

It is probably more important if you wish to pursue a career in music.  You would be more likely to attain a good position as a teacher or music director, or what not.  I know some schools won't even consider you as a teacher if you don't have some sort of certificate. 

From personal experience, I know that gaining certificates for this and that isn't always reflective of your knowledge on the subject.  However, employers do consider them quite important. 

[zheer]

From personal experience, I know that gaining certificates for this and that isn't always reflective of your knowledge on the subject.  However, employers do consider them quite important. 

  Good point, I think certificates takes you places and open doors.

[dora96]

I agree.

Except doing the exam from the exam board paying a fortunate on exam fee. Is there any other way you can get recognised ? Enter piano completion,  Eisteddfod. would it help ?


I always feel such as pressure from exam. Firstly as piano student pay at least $469 for ATCL, $300 for AMEB for 35 minutes performer program.   

[quantum]

Winning competitions is probably good for someone who want's to get into performing as a concert or recording artist, as well as composers. 

If you want to get into teaching (and earn a decent wage) a certificate would be a wise choice.  After all you will be teaching students how to achieve these certificates too and personal experience would be a plus in such a matter. 

Sure you could go into teaching without a certificate, but it may be difficult to gain momentum in your career.  Those with the certificates may get ahead before you do. 

There are instances where a person has built up so much experience and a reputable track record that people don't even look at their qualifications, and hire them for their reputation.  This however mostly applies to people who have been teaching or performing for a very long time. 

Pressure and stress in an exam situation is normal. It is something we as pianists must learn to deal with.  It is also an issue that will come up in our teaching, and we need to be able to coach our students through it as well.  You may need to take some proactive steps in managing your stress it it is too burdensome.  Maybe talk with some people who can advise on performance anxiety.  If music is just a hobby there is no need to put yourself through stress inducing situations, but if you intend to pursue it as a career there should be some serious thought about controlling one's stress.


I have this book, you make wish to take a look at it:
https://www.amazon.com/Notes-Green-Room-Anxiety-Performance/dp/0787943789

[dora96]

Thank you quantum for your valuable advise. I also have tried advanced diploma exam before I didn't pass the first time, second time pass with low mark. However, once to get the diploma level, it is very tough, not only on financially but psychologically  . Like you said. It is important to get qualified to pursuit musical career. Like my friend is brilliant player , he didn't pass but he said he is not shame in fact,  the exam can enhance the knowledge and learning experienced. I think I am going to look at the book (performance anxieties) extremely interesting subject.

[quantum]

Another thought.  It may benefit you to practice playing in situations that make you stressful (but in small doses).  Just as we practice scales to improve technique, we could practice performing to improve our handling of such situations. 

You could start small, even an empty room with a tape recorder as audience.  It will never say anything bad to you    Personally I like recording myself as it gives me feedback on my playing.