Before we begin, let’s talk about honey badgers. You’ve probably heard that they're one of the most fearless, resilient creatures on the planet. Despite being no larger than your average corgi, they take on vipers, hyenas, even lions. And they can escape from almost any enclosure. Honey badgers are relentless, even when faced with obstacles far larger than themselves. 

Not to be melodramatic, but that’s the kind of fearless grit you’ll need when preparing for your RCM violin exam. It’s not always going to be smooth sailing, and there will be moments when you’ll feel like giving up. But remember, like the honey badger, you'll need to face your fear of failure and overcome perfectionism. In the end, it will be worth it.

1. Remember Why You Started

There’s a reason you picked up the violin. Whether it was a lilting concerto that gave you goosebumps, seeing two twins duel Celtic fiddles in Lord of the Dance's 1997 VHS release (rather obscure, I know, but I fell in love), or else the quiet pride in mastering something difficult. Hold onto that. This exam isn’t just a test. It’s a touchstone for your personal journey as a musician. The RCM syllabus is restrictive, but within that structure is room to showcase your unique voice. Your interpretation, your emotion, your growth. Each étude, each scale, each bow stroke is a step toward that version of yourself you imagined when you first placed the violin on your shoulder.

2. Put Your Talent to Work!

My teacher - one of the best violinists I have ever met - once told me that I carried my talent like a sack of potatoes because, full disclosure, I didn’t practice much then. But there was something about hearing it said that way that made me realize that the difference between a beginner and a prodigy or professional has less to do with innate talent and more to do with time, effort, grit, and resources. Work. Holding yourself accountable and staying disciplined with your practice routine, even when it feels like you’re grinding through the same few measures for the hundredth time, is where the real transformation happens. Every scratchy note can be softened, every technique mastered, and every minute of practice hones your skill. Showing up consistently, even imperfectly, is what builds strength.

3. Your Worth as a Musician is not Defined by an Exam 

An exam, like all objective measures of performance, is a snapshot. While I likened the exam to a touchstone in earlier sections, it should not be internalized as more than that. It is a racing mile marker, but cannot tell the story of why you are running, if you will ever run again or for how long, the hours of sweat-filled training you put in, or what obstacles you've faced to even begin competing in the first place. As musicians, most of us are driven to perform and excel. These are good things, of course. But let's make sure to give ourselves grace when we fall short with the same ease with which we experience joy at our success. 

When you are up there, being critically assessed by an adjudicator with an impressive background, ignore the formality and play as if you were simply serenading another human being, sharing a moment in the music. 

4. Measure by Measure, Line Upon Line

Studying for the RCM exam can feel overwhelming. There’s a lot to cover: scales, arpeggios, studies, repertoire, orchestral excerpts, playback, and ear training. From a logistical standpoint, the easiest way to prepare for the exam is to break it down. Set goals that are small, clear, and achievable. Maybe today is just a slow practice session on shifting. Maybe tomorrow is all about vibrato or intonation. Progress isn’t linear, and some days you’ll feel stuck. That’s okay. Be kind to yourself. Rest when you need to, but don’t conflate fatigue with failure. 

5. Your Teacher is There to Support & Encourage

We teachers, recordings, finger charts, backing tracks, friends, and family - all part of your toolkit. Don’t suffer in silence when you’re stuck on a phrase. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, to seek feedback, or to record yourself and listen for areas of improvement. You don’t need to do this alone. Music is, after all, meant to be shared. The RCM exam might seem like a solo endeavor, but behind every successful student is a web of support and strategy.

6. Celebrate the Small Wins Too

There will come a moment, maybe mid-scale or sonatina, when it just clicks. The work you’ve put in will start to sing. Trust that moment is coming. This exam is not just about passing or getting a mark. It’s about proving to yourself that you can do something hard and come out stronger. You’re not just learning to play the violin, you’re learning how to persevere, focus, and master a difficult task. That’s a skill that will stay with you far beyond the auditorium. 

With that being said, here is a link to a downloadable copy of the 2021 RCM Syllabus - happy practicing!