The most innovative international music examination

SCSM International

SCSM International is a St Cecilia School of Music Examination Board that gives music assessment and qualification since 1974.

About SCSM International

50 years in music certification

SCSM International is the St. Cecilia School of Music Examination Board (Australia) which has provided innovative and progressive music assessments and qualifications for all ages since 1974. St. Cecilia International (SCSM) provides examinations from Grades 1 to 8 as well as professional diplomas.

SCSM system is designed and administered by professional teachers and experienced business leaders all of whom understand the needs of the industry and are sensitive to the current local conditions in each country. Professional teachers in the industry are regularly invited to contribute their ideas and suggestions in order to allow for continuous development and efficiency as well as maintaining high standards.

St cecilia school of music

Benefit of SCSM Examinations

Students who successfully complete SCSM exams show that they have fulfilled the rigorous standards. Obtaining an SCSM certificate is evidence of thorough technical preparation and outstanding musicianship. A high-quality certificate is presented to successful candidates – blue and gold for Grades 1 – 5; and beige and gold for Grade 6 – 8.

Our Pride in music industry

SCSM Examinations International is known in Australia and New Zealand as one of the leading, and most innovative music examination boards available. It has launched many musicians and professionals since its establishment in 1974. Founded and directed by Matthews Tyson, an expert in music teaching and examining, SCSM is now established throughout Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Malaysia and Italy.

Whilst SCSM qualifications stand proudly on their own merits, accreditation is awarded to students for their government education certificates in Tasmania, Queensland, South Australian, Northern Territory, and Western Australian. SCSM Teaching Diplomas provide eligibility for membership to the various Music Teachers’ Associations throughout Australia.

progression route

General admission into tertiary music degree programs in most countries is based on the student’s Pre-U/Foundation Academic, English Language Results, Prior Music Training background, and through the Audition & Interview processes. There is no special provision or route for those who posses a regulated music exam qualifications. However, students with previous music examination may include their qualification in their portfolio interviews. Universities or colleges assess each applicant on their merits, and those responsible for admissions are always willing to discuss special circumstances.

SCSM International is a renowned music examination brand in Australia and, like all music examination bodies throughout the world, is self-regulating. SCSM examinations are widely used by schools, private studios, academics, educators, and people in the music industry. After almost 50 years, we found that students with SCSM qualifications appear ahead of their peers in their performance and studies during their tertiary education.

SCSM International, a catalyst of global music industry

109,000+

Students Certified

3090+

Teachers Certified

37

Exams Across Subjects

50

Years of Service

Most Flexible Exams in the Industry

SCSM is pleased to accept Grade 8 (and higher) qualification in all practical subjects from other major national and international examining boards through the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) credits towards the four St. Cecilia Diplomas. Some aspects of the performance or written units of the SCSM diplomas may be waived according to the category of diploma entered and the prior qualifications already gained. Requests for credit should be made before submitting diploma entry forms. Contact the international office at info@st-cecilia.com.au for more details.

4 Categories of Music Qualification

Holders of the SCSM Certifications show that they have gone through a strict procedure of musical skills assessment according to the standard recognized by the Government and professional bodies in Australia, New Zealand, and throughout the world. SCSM Certification is evidence of the learners that they have achieved excellent music technique and musicianship. 

Solo

Six types of examinations for solo musician or singer. Namely, Graded Exam, Concert Certificate, Recital Certificate, Certificate of Performing Arts, Musicianship, dan Showcase.

Ensemble

Three types of examination: Duet-Trio-Quartet, Music Instrument Ensemble, and Choir.

Writing

This category include the Theory of Music (Grade 1 - 8).

Profesional Diploma

Professional Diploma (Associate, Licentiate, dan Fellowship) is awarded to the student who has fulfilled the criteria outlined by SCSM International. Hundreds of music teachers, industry players, and performers from all academic backgrounds have been awarded the SCSM Exams including composers, artists, music business operators, university lecturers, and professors.

6 Categories of Solo Music Examination

Assessment of the musical competency by the SCSM International for solo musicians and singers.

Graded Exam

Technical Work, 4 Pieces, Programme Notes

Concert Certificate

4 Pieces, 10 - 22 minutes, Programme Notes

Recital Certificate

Full Recital, Conservatoire Settings, 20 - 30 minutes

Certificate of Performing Arts

Musical & Drama Communication Skills, Performing Skills

Musicianship

Aural Test (Rhythmic, Pitch, Volume, Tonality, Sight-reading)

Showcase

2 Pieces for 1st Instrument and 2 Pieces for 2nd Instrument, Programme Notes or Viva

Grading and Passing Marks

diploma, parchment, graduation-152024.jpg

Passing
Requirements

65% marks and above

Merit
Award

75% marks and above

Distinction
Award

85% marks and above

Higher Distinction
Award

90% marks and above

SCSM International Awards

Samantha Deconno, a qualified teacher from Adelaide, receives a certification from SCSM International with 100% Marks in the Theory of Music examination. 

Each year after the end of SCSM music examinations, our students will be invited to attend the award ceremony for their SCSM International music achievements. Achievers will receive the official certification of their musical skills presented by the SCSM diplomates (Licentiate or Fellowship).

This event is celebrated following the tradition of the learned society in England where guests or alumni who had received their SCSM Professional Diploma will don the official SCSM academic dress as a symbolic gesture of continuing the tradition of musical excellence preceded by the early founders of music societies in the United Kingdom. Join our big community of global musicians and singers who shares the same goal in the development of performing arts. 

References:

Groves, N. (Ed.). (2014). Shaw’s Academical Dress of Great Britain and Ireland – Volume II: Non-degree-awarding Bodies (Third, Vol. 2). The Burgon Society.

The Burgon Society. (n.d.). Bibliography – The Burgon Society (A. Kerr, Ed.). Www.burgon.org.uk. Retrieved July 2, 2020, from https://www.burgon.org.uk/research/bibliography/

Ben Jones, a student of Teacher Samantha  Deconno, proudly receives SCSM certification in the Theory of Music examination with 100% marks

SCSM International Awards Ceremony

Oongisvoce Academy of Music, Sabah Malaysia (North Borneo)

Matthews S. Tyson

HonDMus, FAIM, LMusTCL, ATCL, FAGM, HonTCL, FPerfASMC, HonSCSM, HonFNMSM, FEAU, MIMT

Pengarah SCSM International

Matthews Tyson is one of Australia’s respected music figures for his contribution to musical arts and educational development in Australia by bringing the nation’s brand to global recognition. He is the director and founder of the “St Cecilia School of Music & International Examinations” with exceptional experiences as a music educator for more than 50 years. He has birthed many professional music teachers and performing artists who in return have also won many awards in and outside of Australia as well as New Zealand. He is an expert in preparing students of all ages towards embarking on their performing and teaching career. Aside from teaching SCSM’s popular course namely, “The Certificate of Music Teaching” for the teacher’s credential, he is also an active music examiner with years of experience as an adjudicator, lecturer, and public speaker.

SCSM Professional Diploma

SCSM Diplomas are professional qualifications offered in music performance, teaching, or research. The practice of offering professional diplomas for musicians and singers is part of the rich English traditions established for more than 130 years. Music examination boards have maintained the traditional practice of being unique institutions generally separate from academic institutions.

Professional music diplomas awarded by any music examination board is an industry-focused assessment potentially leading to a profession in either music performance or teaching/consultation.

The diploma examination is specific to the type of skill for which the candidate focuses upon e.g. Singing, Violin, Guitar, Piano, Clarinet, etc. Therefore, this qualification is favoured by most music educational businesses or studios that require qualified industry-focused professionals to consult and work with their clients. This type of qualification is similar to the professional certification examinations by non-music corporate such as IChemE, IEEE, AICB, ACCA, CIMA, PMI, CIPD, and CMI-UK to name a few. Each institution has its own strict standards and requirements for certification, registration, or licensing. Music examination boards operate similarly.

Associate Diploma

Candidates must be able to show their excellent skills according to the knowledge and ability equivalent to the end of the first year of the Bachelor of Arts.

Licentiate Diploma

Candidates must be able to show their excellent skills according to the knowledge and ability equivalent to the final third year of the Bachelor of Arts.

Fellowship Diploma

Candidates must be able to show their excellent skills according to the knowledge and ability equivalent to the graduate of the Master of Arts or higher.

We produce industry player

SCSM Diplomas are evidence of outstanding ability, skill and knowledge. SCSM Diploma holders receive added credibility in their respective field namely in teaching, performance, or research that will assist them in obtaining employment. The rigorous standard of the SCSM Diploma examinations will accentuate teachers’ and musicians’ skills according to the current needs within the industry.

Qualified SCSM teachers are well-prepared to establish their own music teaching practices and where possible are given assistance through the St. Cecilia Teacher Registration process. Successful candidates may be eligible for reciprocal recognition of the equivalent qualification to receive dual-awards from the SCSM partnered professional boards.

2022 SCSM Examination Fees

For Malaysian Only

SCSM Diploma fees are based on the latest established fees stipulated by the SCSM International headquarters according to the Malaysian Ringgit-Australian Dollar currency exchange. You may talk to our consultant to assist you with further information.

Further details

Should you wish to receive SCSM International’s music certification, you may contact our regional coordinator for further inquiries.

Malaysia Coordinator :

Mr. Carrey Oliver

Address :

Oongisvoce Academy of Music,
Lot 6/7, 2nd Floor, Donggongon Point,
89500 Penampang, Sabah
oongisvoce@gmail.com

Email :

oongisvoce@gmail.com