The LCM Musical Theatre exams seeks to promote and encourage knowledge, enjoyment and experience of musical theatre, and to foster a commitment to the development of the various skills, techniques and disciplines demanded by the genre.
| Exam Duration | 10 minutes |
| Component 1 - Performance | Candidates to perform two contrasting songs of their own choice from memory. It is not compulsory to perform a song from the handbooks listed below. The total performance time, including the break between the songs, must not exceed 6 minutes. |
| Component 2 - Performance Delivery and Written Programme | Candidates will be awarded an holistic mark taking into account the candidate’s programme variety, transitions between songs, focus and energy of the performance, stage presence, written programme and use of movement, props and costume. The minimum requirement for the written programme is a list of songs, the shows from which they are taken (where appropriate), composers, lyricists and dates. Programme notes are not required but may be included at the candidate’s discretion |
| Component 3 - Discussion | Discuss with the examiner: • what the songs are about • the characters who sing the songs |
| Exam Duration | 10 minutes |
| Component 1 - Performance | Candidates to perform two contrasting songs of their own choice from memory. It is not compulsory to perform a song from the handbooks listed below. The total performance time, including the break between the songs, must not exceed 6 minutes. |
| Component 2 - Performance Delivery and Written Programme | Candidates will be awarded an holistic mark taking into account the candidate’s programme variety, transitions between songs, focus and energy of the performance, stage presence, written programme and use of movement, props and costume The minimum requirement for the written programme is a list of songs, the shows from which they are taken (where appropriate), composers, lyricists and dates. Programme notes are not required but may be included at the candidate’s discretion |
| Component 3 - Discussion | Discuss with the examiner: • what the songs are about • the characters who sing the songs |
| Exam Duration | 15 minutes |
| Component 1 - Vocal Excercise | Candidates to demonstrate two vocal exercises of their own choice relevant to their programme. Exercises could include, but are not limited to, some of the following: articulation, tonal control, dexterity, expression, breath control and vocal stretches. Examples can be found on the LCME website: lcme.uwl.ac.uk. Candidates should observe the following requirements: • The candidate will advise the examiner of the exercises to be performed and the reason for their choice • The exercises are all unaccompanied • Candidates can give themselves starting notes on the piano if required • The tests do not need to be performed from memory • Total component time must not exceed 3 minute |
| Component 2 - Performance | Candidates to perform three songs, including at least one song from the Grades 1 to 3 repertoire list. The programme must include songs from at least two of the following eras: pre 1965, 1965–1999, 2000–present. Candidates can choose any songs from the Musical Theatre Handbook 2023 (LCM) or Music Theatre Handbook 2019–2021 (LCM) within the specified grade level (Grades 1 to 3) but it is not compulsory to perform a song from a handbook. The total performance time, including the break between the songs, must not exceed 10 minutes. Each piece must be introduced with the name of the song, the show from which it is taken (where appropriate) and its composer/lyricist. Additional information may include where/when the show was originally performed and which artist made the song famous |
| Component 3 - Performance Delivery and Written Programme | Candidates will be awarded an holistic mark taking into account the candidate’s programme variety, transitions between songs, focus and energy of the performance, stage presence, written programme and use of movement, props and costume. The minimum requirement for the written programme is a list of songs, the shows from which they are taken (where appropriate), composers, lyricists and dates. Programme notes are not required but may be included at the candidate’s discretion |
| Component 4 - Discussion | Discuss with the examiner any or all (at the examiner’s discretion) of the following: • what the songs are about • the characters who sing the songs • the mood of each song (including the element of contrast between the songs |
| Exam Duration | 15 minutes |
| Component 1 - Vocal Excercise | Candidates to demonstrate two vocal exercises of their own choice relevant to their programme. Exercises could include, but are not limited to, some of the following: articulation, tonal control, dexterity, expression, breath control and vocal stretches. Examples can be found on the LCME website: lcme.uwl.ac.uk. Candidates should observe the following requirements: • The candidate will advise the examiner of the exercises to be performed and the reason for their choice • The exercises are all unaccompanied • Candidates can give themselves starting notes on the piano if required • The tests do not need to be performed from memory • Total component time must not exceed 3 minutes |
| Component 2 - Performance | Candidates to perform three songs, including at least one song from the Grades 1 to 3 repertoire list. The programme must include songs from at least two of the following eras: pre 1965, 1965–1999, 2000–present. Candidates can choose any songs from the Musical Theatre Handbook 2023 (LCM) or Music Theatre Handbook 2019–2021 (LCM) within the specified grade level (Grades 1 to 3) but it is not compulsory to perform a song from a handbook. The total performance time, including the break between the songs, must not exceed 10 minutes. Each piece must be introduced with the name of the song, the show from which it is taken (where appropriate) and its composer/lyricist. Additional information may include where/when the show was originally performed and which artist made the song famous |
| Component 3 - Performance Delivery and Written Programme | Candidates will be awarded an holistic mark taking into account the candidate’s programme variety, transitions between songs, focus and energy of the performance, stage presence, written programme and use of movement, props and costume. The minimum requirement for the written programme is a list of songs, the shows from which they are taken (where appropriate), composers, lyricists and dates. Programme notes are not required but may be included at the candidate’s discretion |
| Component 4 - Discussion | Discuss with the examiner any or all (at the examiner’s discretion) of the following: • what the songs are about • the characters who sing the songs • the style and mood of each song |
| Exam Duration | 18 minutes |
| Component 1 - Vocal Excercise | Candidates to demonstrate two vocal exercises of their own choice relevant to their programme. Exercises could include, but are not limited to, some of the following: articulation, tonal control, dexterity, expression, breath control and vocal stretches. Examples can be found on the LCME website: lcme.uwl.ac.uk. Candidates should observe the following requirements: • The candidate will advise the examiner of the exercises to be performed and the reason for their choice • The exercises are all unaccompanied • Candidates can give themselves starting notes on the piano if required • The tests do not need to be performed from memory • Total component time must not exceed 3 minutes |
| Component 2 - Performance | Candidates to perform three songs, including at least one song from the Grades 1 to 3 repertoire list. The programme must include songs from at least two of the following eras: pre 1965, 1965–1999, 2000–present. Candidates can choose any songs from the Musical Theatre Handbook 2023 (LCM) or Music Theatre Handbook 2019–2021 (LCM) within the specified grade level (Grades 1 to 3) but it is not compulsory to perform a song from a handbook. The total performance time, including the break between the songs, must not exceed 12 minutes. Each piece must be introduced with the name of the song, the show from which it is taken (where appropriate) and its composer/lyricist. Additional information may include where/when the show was originally performed and which artist made the song famous |
| Component 3 - Performance Delivery and Written Programme | Candidates will be awarded an holistic mark taking into account the candidate’s programme variety, transitions between songs, focus and energy of the performance, stage presence, written programme and use of movement, props and costume. The minimum requirement for the written programme is a list of songs, the shows from which they are taken (where appropriate), composers, lyricists and dates. Programme notes are not required but may be included at the candidate’s discretion |
| Component 4 - Discussion | Discuss with the examiner any or all (at the examiner’s discretion) of the following: • how the programme was chosen • what the songs are about • the characters who sing the songs • the styles and moods of the songs |
| Exam Duration | 23 minutes |
| Component 1 - Vocal Excercise | Candidates will be asked to demonstrate three vocal exercises of their own choice. Exercises could include, but are not limited to, some of the following: articulation, tonal control, dexterity, expression, breath control and vocal stretches. Examples can be found on the LCME website: lcme.uwl.ac.uk. Candidates should observe the following requirements: • The candidate will advise the examiner of the exercises to be performed and the reason for their choice • The exercises are all unaccompanied • Candidates can give themselves starting notes on the piano if required • The tests do not need to be performed from memory • Total component time must not exceed 4 minutes |
| Component 2 - Performance | Candidates to perform three songs, including at least one song from the Grades 4 and 5 repertoire list The programme must include songs from at least two of the following eras: pre 1965, 1965–1999, 2000–present. Candidates can choose any songs from the Musical Theatre Handbook 2023 (LCM) or Music Theatre Handbook 2019–2021 (LCM) within the specified grade level (Grades 4 and 5) but it is not compulsory to perform a song from a handbook. The total performance time, including the break between the songs, must not exceed 15 minutes. Each piece must be introduced with the name of the song, the show from which it is taken (where appropriate) and its composer/lyricist. Additional information may include where/when the show was originally performed and which artist made the song famous |
| Component 3 - Performance Delivery and Written Programme | Candidates will be awarded an holistic mark taking into account the candidate’s programme variety, transitions between songs, focus and energy of the performance, stage presence, written programme and use of movement, props and costume. The minimum requirement for the written programme is a list of songs, the shows from which they are taken (where appropriate), composers, lyricists and dates. Programme notes are not required but may be included at the candidate’s discretion. |
| Component 4 - Discussion | Discuss with the examiner any or all (at the examiner’s discretion) of the following: • how the programme was chosen • the subject matter of the songs • the characters who sing the songs • the styles and moods of the songs • the narrative context of the song |
| Exam Duration | 25 minutes |
| Component 1 - Vocal Excercise | Candidates will be asked to demonstrate three vocal exercises of their own choice. Exercises could include, but are not limited to, some of the following: articulation, tonal control, dexterity, expression, breath control and vocal stretches. Examples can be found on the LCME website: lcme.uwl.ac.uk. Candidates should observe the following requirements: • The candidate will advise the examiner of the exercises to be performed and the reason for their choice • The exercises are all unaccompanied • Candidates can give themselves starting notes on the piano if required • The tests do not need to be performed from memory • Total component time must not exceed 5 minutes |
| Component 2 - Performance | Candidates to perform three songs, including at least one song from the Grades 4 and 5 repertoire list. The programme must include songs from at least two of the following eras: pre 1965, 1965–1999, 2000–present. Candidates can choose any songs from the Musical Theatre Handbook 2023 (LCM) or Music Theatre Handbook 2019–2021 (LCM) within the specified grade level (Grades 4 and 5) but it is not compulsory to perform a song from a handbook. The total performance time, including the break between the songs, must not exceed 16 minutes. Each piece must be introduced with the name of the song, the show from which it is taken (where appropriate) and its composer/lyricist. Additional information may include where/when the show was originally performed and which artist made the song famous. |
| Component 3 - Performance Delivery and Written Programme | Candidates will be awarded an holistic mark taking into account the candidate’s programme variety, transitions between songs, focus and energy of the performance, stage presence, written programme and use of movement, props and costume. The minimum requirement for the written programme is a list of songs, the shows from which they are taken (where appropriate), composers, lyricists and dates. Programme notes are not required but may be included at the candidate’s discretion |
| Component 4 - Discussion | Discuss with the examiner any or all (at the examiner’s discretion) of the following: • how the programme was chosen • the subject matter of the songs • the characterisation of the songs • the contrasting styles and moods of the songs • the narrative and dramatic context of the songs • the genre to which each song belongs • the name of the composers and librettists of the songs |
| Exam Duration | 30 minutes |
| Component 1 - Vocal Excercise | Candidates will be asked to demonstrate three vocal exercises of their own choice. Exercises could include, but are not limited to, some of the following: articulation, tonal control, dexterity, expression, breath control and vocal stretches. Examples can be found on the LCME website: lcme.uwl.ac.uk. Candidates should observe the following requirements: • The candidate will advise the examiner of the exercises to be performed and the reason for their choice • The exercises are all unaccompanied • Candidates can give themselves starting notes on the piano if required • The tests do not need to be performed from memory • Total component time must not exceed 6 minutes |
| Component 2 - Performance | Candidates to perform four songs, including at least one song from the Grades 6 to 8 repertoire list. The programme must include songs from at least two of the following eras: pre 1965, 1965–1999, 2000–present. Candidates can choose any songs from the Musical Theatre Handbook 2023 (LCM) or Music Theatre Handbook 2019–2021 (LCM) within the specified grade level (Grades 6 to 8) but it is not compulsory to perform a song from a handbook. The total performance time, including the break between the songs, must not exceed 18 minutes. Each piece must be introduced with the name of the song, the show from which it is taken (where appropriate) and its composer/lyricist. Additional information may include where/when the show was originally performed and which artist made the song famous. One of the songs performed must include, or be preceded or followed by, a section of spoken libretto, in character (the same character as the song), of approximately 30 seconds to 1 minute. |
| Component 3 - Performance Delivery and Written Programme | Candidates will be awarded an holistic mark taking into account the candidate’s programme variety, transitions between songs, focus and energy of the performance, stage presence, written programme and use of movement, props and costume. The minimum requirement for the written programme is a list of songs, the shows from which they are taken (where appropriate), composers, lyricists and dates. Programme notes are not required but may be included at the candidate’s discretion. |
| Component 4 - Discussion | Discuss with the examiner any or all (at the examiner’s discretion) of the following: • how the programme was chosen • the subject matter of the songs • the characterisation of the songs • the contrasting styles and moods of the songs • the narrative and dramatic context of the songs • the genre to which each song belongs • the composer and librettists of the songs (their names and at least one other musical written by them, individually or collectively) • the vocal and dramatic skills and techniques employed in order to perform the songs • a critical evaluation of the candidate’s performance, including aspects which went well, and aspects which could have been improved |
| Exam Duration | 30 minutes |
| Component 1 - Vocal Excercise | Candidates will be asked to demonstrate three vocal exercises of their own choice. Exercises could include, but are not limited to, some of the following: articulation, tonal control, dexterity, expression, breath control and vocal stretches. Examples can be found on the LCME website: lcme.uwl.ac.uk. Candidates should observe the following requirements: •The candidate will advise the examiner of the exercises to be performed and the reason for their choice •The exercises are all unaccompanied •Candidates can give themselves starting notes on the piano if required •The tests do not need to be performed from memory •Total component time must not exceed 6 minutes |
| Component 2 - Performance | Candidates to perform four songs, including at least one song from the Grades 6 to 8 repertoire list The programme must include songs from at least two of the following eras: pre 1965, 1965–1999, 2000–present. Candidates can choose any songs from the Musical Theatre Handbook 2023 (LCM) or Music Theatre Handbook 2019–2021 (LCM) within the specified grade level (Grades 6 to 8) but it is not compulsory to perform a song from a handbook. The total performance time, including the break between the songs, must not exceed 18 minutes. Each piece must be introduced with the name of the song, the show from which it is taken (where appropriate) and its composer/lyricist. Additional information may include where/when the show was originally performed and which artist made the song famous. One of the songs performed must include, or be preceded or followed by, a section of spoken libretto, in character (the same character as the song), of approximately 30 seconds to 1 minute. |
| Component 3 - Performance Delivery and Written Programme | Candidates will be awarded an holistic mark taking into account the candidate’s programme variety, transitions between songs, focus and energy of the performance, stage presence, written programme and use of movement, props and costume. The minimum requirement for the written programme is a list of songs, the shows from which they are taken (where appropriate), composers, lyricists and dates. Programme notes are not required but may be included at the candidate’s discretion |
| Component 4 - Discussion | Discuss with the examiner any or all (at the examiner’s discretion) of the following: • how the programme was chosen • the subject matter of the songs • the characterisation of the songs • the contrasting styles and moods of the songs • the narrative and dramatic context of the songs • the genre to which each song belongs • the composer and librettists of the songs (some basic biographical knowledge is required) • the vocal and dramatic skills and techniques employed in order to perform the songs • how the songs and spoken libretto were learnt and prepared, including any problems and how these were overcome • a critical evaluation of the candidate’s performance, including aspects which went well, and aspects which could have been improved |
| Exam Duration | 35 minutes |
| Component 1 - Vocal Excercise | Candidates will be asked to demonstrate three vocal exercises of their own choice. Exercises could include, but are not limited to, some of the following: articulation, tonal control, dexterity, expression, breath control and vocal stretches. Examples can be found on the LCME website: lcme.uwl.ac.uk. Candidates should observe the following requirements: • The candidate will advise the examiner of the exercises to be performed and the reason for their choice • The exercises are all unaccompanied • Candidates can give themselves starting notes on the piano if required • The tests do not need to be performed from memory • Total component time must not exceed 8 minutes |
| Component 2 - Performance | Candidates to perform four songs, including at least one song from the Grades 6 to 8 repertoire list (see Section 6.3). The programme must include songs from at least two of the following eras: pre-1965,1965–1999, 2000–present. Candidates can choose any songs from the Musical Theatre Handbook 2023 (LCM) or Music Theatre Handbook 2019–2021 (LCM) within the specified grade level (Grades 6 to 8) but it is not compulsory to perform a song from a handbook. The total performance time, including the break between the songs, must not exceed 20 minutes. Each piece must be introduced with the name of the song, the show from which it is taken (where appropriate) and its composer/lyricist. Additional information may include where/when the show was originally performed and which artist made the song famous. One of the songs performed must include, or be preceded or followed by, a section of spoken libretto, in character (the same character as the song), of approximately 30 seconds to 1 minute. |
| Component 3 - Performance Delivery and Written Programme | Candidates will be awarded an holistic mark taking into account the candidate’s programme variety, transitions between songs, focus and energy of the performance, stage presence, written programme and use of movement, props and costume. The minimum requirement for the written programme is a list of songs, the shows from which they are taken (where appropriate), composers, lyricists and dates. Programme notes are not required but may be included at the candidate’s discretion. |
| Component 4 - Discussion | Discuss with the examiner any or all (at the examiner’s discretion) of the following: • how the programme was chosen • the subject matter of the songs • the characterisation of the songs • the contrasting styles and moods of the songs • the narrative and dramatic context of the songs • the genre to which each song belongs • the composer and librettists of the songs • the vocal and dramatic skills and techniques employed in order to perform the songs • how the songs and spoken libretto were learnt and prepared, including any problems and how these were overcome • a critical evaluation of the candidate’s performance, including aspects which went well, and aspects which could have been improved • wider background knowledge of musical theatre, particularly in relation to the programme performed • a through understanding of relevant vocal and dramatic techniques, stagecraft and performance skills • the influences which have shaped the candidate’s experience of musical theatre and how these have affected the performance of the programme • what future goals the candidate has set themself |