Exam Supports
RIAM Exams is here to support students at every stage of the exam journey, with resources and guidance to help prepare with confidence.
From sourcing music to managing nerves and refining performance skills, we offer practical and specialised advice.
RIAM Piano Corner
RIAM Exams provide a suite of piano-specific Exam supports, including RIAM Piano Albums, Teaching Notes for Piano Exams, Piano Album Videos performed by RIAM professor Reamonn Keary, and downloadable guides outlining the scales, arpeggios, and theory elements required at each grade level.
Top Tips & Dealing with Exam Nerves
Every performer, from beginners to professionals, feels a few butterflies before stepping into an exam room. The good news? There are lots of simple ways to manage those nerves and feel more confident. We've gathered some practical tips from RIAM teachers and students to help you prepare, stay calm, and enjoy the experience.
Example Exam Videos
Want to know what to expect in the exam room, or how to record at home? These videos show real-life examples of both in-person Practical Grade Exams and best-practice recordings for recorded grade exams. They're here to help you feel confident, prepared, and ready to shine—whether you're heading to an exam centre or recording from home.
Recorded Exam Guidelines & Uploads
Recorded Exams offer the flexibility to perform and submit your exam on your own schedule. Ideal for Music and Drama candidates, this option allows you to showcase your best work from a location that suits you.
Own Choice Approval Service for RIAM Performance Grade Exams
RIAM Performance Grade Exams offer the flexibility to choose pieces from any genre, exam board, or original source, provided they match the technical level of the grade.
Pieces listed by other recognised exam boards at the same grade do not require approval.
For all other free-choice repertoire, candidates may use our optional approval service to submit up to four pieces for review by the Chief Examiner, ensuring they meet the expected standard.
Music Theory Videos
Music theory is a powerful tool for deepening musical understanding. As more students take RIAM Theory Exams each year, working through the RIAM workbooks and exam levels is a valuable way to strengthen not just theory knowledge, but also appreciation for the music they perform.
To support students on this journey, we commissioned a dedicated video series covering key theory topics across the grades.
Past Theory Exam Papers
Practising with past papers is a great way to prepare for your RIAM Theory Exam. These sample papers help students become familiar with the format, question styles, and level of detail expected at each grade, building both confidence and understanding.
Online Exams Marking Guide for Teachers
These guidelines support you in preparing students for the supplementary components of their online Exams. You’ll find clear marking criteria for sight-reading, aural work, and theory — all of which play a vital role in shaping well-rounded musicianship.
The document offers a consistent framework for teachers and students, helping to maintain fairness, transparency, and the high standards associated with RIAM assessments.
Use this resource to guide practice sessions, set clear expectations, and ensure your students feel confident and well-prepared.
CPD Courses, Workshops & Key Skills for Teachers
RIAM’s Lifelong Learning offers a selection of Continuous Professional Development and Wellness courses for music teachers and professionals, including our popular annual Key Skills course. We are proud to offer programmes of study that are designed to inspire and refresh your working lives, and give you the opportunity to meet new friends and colleagues.