The NZMEB is offering written theory examinations from Grades 1 to 6. These will be held biannually on the first Saturday in May and the first Saturday after Labour Day. Entrants need to write clearly and tidily on examination papers. The maximum number of marks for each question will be shown on the examination paper. Entrants for Grade 6 and above who would like their theory equivalent from another examining body recognised by NZMEB should provide a copy with their practical entry or as soon as practicable thereafter. Work in the syllabus can be covered by using Essential Music Theory by Gordon Spearritt, How to Blitz Grade Theory by Samantha Coates or Music Theory Made Easy for AMEB Syllabus by Lina Ng. Harmony Step by Step by Dulcie Holland is a useful adjunct from Grade 3 onwards.
Co-requisites and Equivalents
There are no co-requisite theory requirements for Standard Syllabus examinations. Co-requisite theory requirements for all Performance Syllabus examinations are as follows:
NCEA
NZMEB Performance Exam Grade
NZMEB/AMEB Theory
TRINITY Theory
ABRSM Theory
L3
Grade 6
Grade 3 Pass
Grade 5 pass
Grade 5 pass
L4
Grade 7
Grade 4 Pass
Grade 6 pass
Grade 6 pass
L4
Grade 8
Grade 4 Pass
Grade 6 pass
Grade 6 pass
L5
Diploma AMusNZ
Grade 5 Pass
Grade 7 pass
Grade 7 pass
L7
Diploma LMusNZ
Grade 6 Pass
Grade 8 pass
Grade 8 pass
To be awarded the practical grades shown above, an entrant must also achieve a supporting theory paper. Any of the above equivalents are acceptable, note for LMusNZ the only acceptable supporting paper is Grade 6 NZMEB. Entrants will be allowed 36 months to attain their theory qualification after sitting their practical exam. There is no time constraint to complete a practical examination after a corresponding theory paper has been achieved. A copy of the certificate will be required. If an entrant has already gained a co-requisite theory pass, please send a photocopy of it to: NZMEB PO Box 7019 Tauranga 3148
Schedule of marks from a total of 100
A+
High Distinction
90+
A
Distinction
85 - 89
A-
Honours
80 - 84
B+
Merit
75 - 79
B
Credit Plus
70 - 74
B-
Credit
65 - 69
C+
Pass Plus
60 - 64
C
Pass
55 - 59
C-
Pass Awarded
50 - 54
Below 50: insufficient marks to pass
Harmony
Entrants are encouraged to use as broad a vocabulary as possible. There is no restriction on the chords to be used and those listed are a guideline only.