RIAM Exams
Empowering Growth Through Music and Drama

RIAM Exams provide a trusted pathway for music and drama students, blending tradition with flexibility 
and expert feedback to support technical mastery, artistic growth and creative expression.

A young girl learning to play piano with her teacher

Why Choose RIAM Exams?

  • Flexible Options: Choose in-person or video submissions for added convenience.
  • Expert Feedback: Gain constructive insights from experienced musicians to boost skills and confidence.
  • Comprehensive Resources: Access detailed syllabi and RIAM publications to guide your progress.
  • Performance Focus: Emphasise creativity and expression with Performance Grades and GOAL exams.
  • Genre Diversity: Showcase talent across Classical, Pop, Jazz, and more.
  • Spotlight Awards Recognition: Students and teachers can be nominated for RIAM Spotlight Awards.
  • Experience and Expertise: Run by Ireland’s leading conservatoire, RIAM Exams combine rich heritage with modern flexibility.

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Our Exams

Young teen in pink top plays flute in front of sheet music at home

Practical Grade Exams

RIAM Music Practical Grades offer a structured and inspiring framework for musicians at every stage of their journey.

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Performance Grade Exams

RIAM Performance Grades are designed for musicians who want to showcase their artistry and creative expression.

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A joyful teenage boy with a mop of red hair in casual attire playing drums next to a young female guitarist with long blond hair

Mark-Free Assessments

GOAL Performance Assessments provide expert feedback on progress with no pass/fail pressure.

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Drama & Communication Grade Exams

Inspire confidence, creativity, and communication skills for life through the performing arts.

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Theory Exams

Online Theory Exams provide an innovative way for students to deepen their knowledge.

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The Royal Irish Academy of Music are passionate about providing the best possible training to our own teachers, and this year will be extending the same opportunity to our fellow educators across the country, by opening up registration to our annual 3-day violin teacher training event with Simon Hewitt Jones and Caroline Lumsden of ViolinSchool.  Participants will gain all the practical tools and strategies they need teach violin confidently and effectively. Violinists will learn the fundamentals of sharing

Diploma Exams

For advanced performance students or those who aim to teach their instrument or drama & communication

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News & Features

Teen playing violin at home in kitchen

New Performance Grade Exams Launched

Our new RIAM Performance Grade Exams respond directly to community feedback, seeking an option for students who would benefit from swapping sight-reading, scales and aural tests for one extra performance piece.

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Reamonn Keary and Lorna Horan

Key Skills 2025 On Sale Now

The August Key Skills workshops will present the new 2026 piano albums for the Lower Grades, the last one in our four-year 2023-26 cycle.

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Piano Album Covers spread across piano

Winter 2025 Applications open 3rd September

Booking for Winter 2025, including new Performance Grade and GOAL Performance Exams, will be availble from Friday 3rd September.

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