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Composition Examinations

We offer three levels of diploma in composition, which are assessed based on the use of instruments, imagery, score layout and how the music reflects the theme on which it is based.

Composition is offered as an examination by itself, or as part of a performance or dissertation diploma at one of the four levels. There is also an option to do a diploma in performance, dissertation and composition. For more details on this, please see our combined examinations page.

Below is a list of the requirements for each level of composition examination

NMSM composition examinations

DiplomaANMSM
Outline ProposalUp to 300 words + proposed title
Composition duration10 mins +/- 1 min
VivaYes
Requirements5 pieces (max) or suite (5 movements) or 1 work
Summary notesHand written or typed
PresentationHand written or typed plus recording
DiplomaLNMSM
Outline ProposalUp to 300 words + proposed title
Composition duration15 mins +/- 2 mins
VivaYes
Requirements5 pieces (max) or suite (5 movements) or 1 work
Summary notesHand written or typed
PresentationHand written or typed plus recording
DiplomaFNMSM
Outline ProposalUp to 300 words + proposed title
Composition duration25 mins +/- 4 mins
VivaYes
Requirements5 pieces (max) or suite (5 movements) or 1 work
Summary notesHand written or typed
PresentationHand written or typed plus recording