Until now there were plenty of exams for electric and classical guitarists, but nothing for steel-string acoustic guitar players. The Registry of Guitar Tutors (RGT) announced that, from April 2008, they will offer a total of 10 graded exams: two entry level exams for children and novices and grades 1- 8.
With the help of high profile acoustic players including, Gordon Giltrap, Clive Carroll and Stuart Ryan, the exams have been designed to focus on skills specific to acoustic guitarists: strumming, fingerpicking and accompanying soloists.
The exams are certified by the London College of Music Exams and Thames Valley University and are accredited by the QCA (Qualification and Curriculum Authority), which gives certain grades GCSE and A Levels equivalencies as well as UCAS points for admission to higher education.
You can get information on exams, including a downloadable exam information booklet at the RGT's official website.
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