The spring sun is out so why not start the weekend with a piece on our Grade 1 Piano Syllabus? Sun's Out was written specially for us by British composer Charlotte Carrivick. open.spotify.com/track/0J29OnA2…

Time to get your 70s vibe on with this fun miniature set at at Grade 1 on our new Piano Playing syllabus, Funk Blues by Stewart Thompson. Available from londonmusicpress.com in New Horizons vol. 1 or the Grade 1 Piano Album. music.youtube.com/watch?v=WZ7gsP…

Ever considered taking a degree but university wasn't for you? If you hold a VCM or other recognised Licentiate diploma then you can top up to a Bachelor of Music degree by a negotiated personal project. Victoria College, encouraging since 1890 victoriacollegelondon.com/?page_id=517

Continuing the exploration of our new Piano Playing syllabus with Newport Bay set for grade 6. Composed by Tim Knight, you can enjoy the entire suite in this complete performance. youtube.com/watch?v=zZ1VjH…

Flexible entry routes, multiple repertoire options and OfQual regulated.

Take a moment to relax with a brass band classic, Ballade by John Holland. Set on our OfQual regulated Grade 7 Cornet syllabus its a perfect calm moment on a spring day! youtu.be/DpJtRJM7IkA?fe… #vcmexams #toencourage #gradedexams #ucas #cornet

It's National Siblings Day! Here are just a handful of some of the best and least known musical siblings from history! cmuse.org/famous-musical…

Help shape our future syllabuses! Have your say. #vcmexams #toencourage #newmusic

Would you like to see an old favourite back? A new discovery to share? Let us know! #vcmexams #toencourage #newmusic #gradedexams

🎶 Piano teachers—Satie’s *Gymnopédie No. 3* (set at Grade 5 Piano) is a beautiful study in tone and expression. A perfect intro to impressionism for developing musicians. 🎧 Listen: youtube.com/watch?v=CCtMxv… #PianoTeaching #Satie #MusicEd #Grade5Piano #Impressionism

🎓 VCM alumni & students — what’s your most unforgettable exam or student life moment? 😅🎶 Whether it made you laugh, cry, or grow — we want to hear it! Reply below and let’s relive those memories together. 👇 #VCMMemories #StudentLife #ExamStories

Feeling nervous before a big exam? You're not alone. ✅ Reframe nerves as excitement 🧘‍♂️ Use mindfulness to stay grounded 🏃‍♀️ Exercise to manage stress Nerves mean you care—channel them into confidence. #PerformanceTips #Mindfulness Public Speaking #vcmexams

Here’s some Monday Motivation from one of the great figures of American theatre and film Orson Welles “Don’t give them what you think they want. Give them what they never thought was possible.” Why not follow his lead?

What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson #vcmexams #performingarts #education #toencourage #MondayMotivation

Why choose VCM Exams? Encouragement isn’t a bonus—it’s the foundation. With 60+ subjects, flexible formats & examiners who uplift, your exam becomes a joy, not a chore. Explore: vcmexams.com VCMExams #EncouragementMatters #MusicEducation #UCAS

🎶 VCM Grade 6 Clarinet pick: Bach’s Corrente from Partita No.2. Baroque brilliance meets expressive challenge—perfect for phrasing & style! 📺 Watch: youtube.com/watch?v=dQLBP2… #vcmexams #clarinet #toencourage #gradedexams #ucas #tlm

Practice Hack: “The 5-Minute Spotlight” - Choose one short piece, scale, or exercise. - Set a timer for 5 minutes. - Perform it as if you're already in the exam room—posture, poise, and presence. - Afterward, jot down one thing that felt strong and one thing to refine tomorrow.

Diplomas = Beyond the Grades 🎶🗣️ From Grade 8 to pro‑level artistry — Diplomas prove you’re more than accomplished. They say: I’ve mastered my craft, and I’m ready for the world. #vcmexams #toencourage #MusicEducation #SpeechAndDrama #LevelUp