College of Piping and Drumming

Curriculum -  Information about the College  - Noticeboard

College of Piping and Drumming Certificates

The certificates are awarded to those who successfully demonstrate their skills at the chosen level of the College curriculum: Preliminary, Elementary, Intermediate, Advance and Senior.  By undertaking to work towards a certificate, pipers and drummers are assuring themselves that they are developing skills of musicianship to a credible standard.  Certificates are a worthwhile goal for all musicians – younger and older!

When are examinations held?
Examinations are held each year during September.

Where are the examinations held?
The College administrator oversees arrangements for examiners, venues and examination dates. Candidates are expected to travel to the examiner.

How do I make an entry for an examination?
By filling out the form supplied to your band secretary, and sending it to the College administrator with your $20 examination fee.

What certificates can I be examined for?
The list of certificates is shown on the front page of this brochure.  Normally only one certificate may be attempted in any one year.  However, the principal and associate principals may exercise discretion on this requirement when they are satisfied that the applicant is most likely to meet the examination standards for more than one certificate. 

What are the examination requirements?
You must be prepared to be tested on all items in the syllabus for the certificate you are attempting.  You have to pass every item in each section of the syllabus.  The examiner marks your performance on each item as “excellent”, “pass” or “fail”.  The test is mainly practical and oral, although there are some written sections as indicated in the syllabus. 

How do I prepare myself for the examination?
First, obtain a copy of the syllabus and guidelines.  These are available from the Executive Officer of the RNZPBA.  With the help of your tutor, prepare yourself for each item in the syllabus. If requested (usually by Centre Education Co-ordinators) the College will arrange workshops when there is sufficient interest.

What happens if I don’t pass every item?
You may re-enter and be re-examined only in the areas previously failed provided the re-sit is within one year of the original examination.  No fee is payable for this re-sit.  After one year has lapsed from the original examination, a new examination covering the full syllabus is required.

What do I take to the examination?
Pipers: practice chanter, bagpipes, music.  Drummers: sticks, practice pad; drum, music.

When do I get my results?
You receive your results within one month of the test.  The College administrator will issue your certificate if you pass.

How can I get further information?
Contact any member of the College of Piping and Drumming.