07 Dec Recording & submitting your guitar exam in 2023?
How to record your exam in 2023
Recording your exam for Trinity Rock & Pop? In this article I will discuss the best way to record and submit your exam in 2023.
It’s worth getting used to knowing how to do it as it will be the same set up for the next grade. You can record at home or at an appropriate venue.
Recording for the Trinity Rock & Pop syllabus means that both the backing tracks and guitar need to be audible. Do a test run and check that the guitar and backing tracks can be heard.
As the grades become more challenging, be aware that when you change from a distorted sound to a clean sound – you want the volume to be about the same.
How to film your digital exam for Trinity Rock & Pop
When filming your exam you needn’t be fancy but it’s useful to get a few basics right so that the examiner can clearly see what’s going on.
You’ll want to avoid a silhouette.
Avoid sitting in front of a window or any mirrors that might reflect light from in front of you. Even with curtains closed, light can still come through.
An appropriate back drop
Who ever is examining the recording will want to see your technique whilst playing. When filming, the guitar’s colour should be in contrast to the background.
Filming vertically.
Regardless of whether you’re filming a Rock & Pop or classical exam, you’ll want the recording to be in portrait mode and from head to toe.
If you’re recording using the electric guitar syllabus, make sure that there’s enough room so that they can see you operating the guitar pedals. Use what you need and don’t feel that y0u have to be too flashy by showing off your entire pedal bored!
Filming Horizontally
You could film horizontally. You’ll need to place the camera further back than you might think. The downside to using this method is that the examiner might not be able to see the technique whilst performing.
Use a tripod!
When filming use a tripod. They’re not expensive. It will make your life a lot easier too!
How to transfer files from either android or apple devices.
Transferring the files from your phone to the computer isn’t as tricky as you might think.
The best way is to use your usual email service provider. Google will allow you transfer large files because it uses google drive to enable a sharable link. Email the file to your self where you can then access it
How to test & record your trinity rock & pop exam
Once you’ve understood how to set up the audio and visuals, you’ll want do a number of tests to make sure you can hear both the backing track and guitar clearly. It’s very good practice anyway! There’s practicing your pieces and then there’s practicing after you’ve pressed the record button.
After you’ve completed a handful of recordings, choose the best version and then transfer your video from your phone to your computer using the google drive method.
Also, it’s a lot easier if somebody helps you to press the record button so that all the candidate has to do is press think about performing. It’s not the most exciting task, it is the most helpful.
How to submit your exam
When you’ve completed your recordings for your exam, you’ll want to book your exam online. It’s better to have a recording ready before you book rather than the other way around. Once booked Trinity Rock & pop will email you a link so that you can sign in to their portal and upload your video and Submission Information Form.
To book your exam click here, to find the Submission Information Form, click here. You’ll need the latter as well as your video to upload along with proof of ID.
In person Vs online exams with Trinity Rock & Pop
When completing an exam in person, you will need to complete Trinity Rock & Pop’s playback section. Whereas if you’re submitting a digital recording you only need to submit a continues video of the three songs which include a technical focus played back to back.
You’ll want to ask your teacher to prepare your backing tracks so that they’re one continuous with an appropriate amount of tune in between each track. This way you’ll only need to press play once.
By recording your exam you have the advantage of being able record as many continuous takes as you need. Exams that are in person you only have one chance and please remember your book! Whether or not you need it, the examiner needs proof that you’ve purchased a copy.
I can book your exam for you.
If you would like me to book your exam, I can. You can get in touch here.