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AMEB exam preparation in Turramurra

AMEB exam preparation in Turramurra, built into weekly private lessons with experienced teachers, from Preliminary to Grade 8.

What is AMEB?

The Australian Music Examinations Board (AMEB) runs graded music exams across Australia, with a published syllabus for each instrument and voice. In each exam the student performs for an examiner, who assesses their pieces, technique and musicianship and gives a written report and result.

Grades run from Preliminary to Grade 8, then on to diplomas. Each grade builds on the last, so students always know the next step.

Grades we prepare students for Preliminary to Grade 8 One grade at a time, at the student's pace.

When is a student ready?

It isn't a race. We look at each student on their own, and the teacher only suggests an exam once the grade is comfortably within reach.

Skills in place

The student can already play most of what the grade asks, so preparation is polishing, not cramming.

Steady practice

Regular practice at home is what gets a program exam ready. The teacher will be honest if the timing isn't right yet.

The student wants it

Exams are optional. We talk it through with the student and the family, and nobody is entered just to keep up with someone else.

A teacher working through a piece with a young student at the piano

How the exam program is built

PiecesThe teacher chooses exam pieces from the syllabus that suit the student's hands, voice and personality, so the program shows them at their best.
Technical workScales, arpeggios and studies, learnt a little at a time across the term rather than crammed in the final weeks.
Sight readingA short new passage in most lessons, so reading something unseen in the exam room feels normal.
AuralClapping rhythms, singing back phrases and recognising intervals and chords. This is where ISM's ear first approach really helps.
General knowledgeQuestions about the pieces, such as the composer, the style, the key and the markings. Students learn to talk about their music, not just play it.

In the weeks before the exam, the teacher runs mock exams in the lesson: the whole program in exam order, with the teacher in the examiner's chair, so the student knows what to expect on the day.

Exam preparation happens in regular weekly lessons at either studio, head office at Level 1, 1319 to 1321 Pacific Highway or Studio 2 at Level 1, 1273 Pacific Highway (corner of Rohini Street), both in Turramurra.

The paperwork is ours

Once you and the teacher agree on a grade, the ISM office looks after the entry. Exam dates and results are emailed to you, so there are no forms or deadlines to chase.

Instruments that often sit exams

These are the instruments ISM students most often take AMEB exams on.

Want to know who would be preparing your child? Meet our teachers.

AMEB questions from parents

Does my child have to sit AMEB exams?
No. Exams are optional at ISM. Some students like a clear goal, others would rather just play. Both are welcome.
Which grade should my child start with?
Many students begin at Preliminary or Grade 1, but it depends on what they can already do. The teacher will recommend a starting grade once they know the student's playing.
How long does it take to prepare for an exam?
It varies with the grade, the student and how regularly they practise. Some students are ready for their first exam after about a year of lessons, others take longer. Your teacher will plan a realistic timeline with you.
Who enters my child for the exam?
The ISM office handles the entry once you and the teacher agree the student is ready. The exam date and, later, the result are emailed to you.
How much practice will exam preparation need?
Short, focused practice most days beats a long session the night before. Split the time between scales, pieces, sight reading and aural.
Can we prepare for AMEB in a 30 minute lesson?
For the early grades, often yes. As the pieces and technical work get longer, many families move to 45 or 60 minute lessons so there's time to cover the whole exam. The teacher will suggest when.

Not ready for exams yet? Most students start with weekly piano lessons or another instrument, and younger children often begin in our group classes.

4.9
What parents say on Google ★★★★★4.9 from 91 Google reviews
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We’ve had a wonderful experience with the International School of Music Turramurra. My son has been attending piano classes here, and we’ve seen fantastic progress not just in his playing ability but also in his confidence and love for music. The teachers are highly skilled, patient, and encouraging, creating a supportive environment that keeps students motivated. The structured curriculum, combined with creative teaching methods, makes learning both effective and enjoyable. I would highly recommend this music school to any parent looking for quality music education for their child.

Jeeva Bharathi, July 2025

My daughter has been learning piano here and we are very happy with the experience. The teachers are patient and supportive, and the environment is encouraging. She really enjoys her lessons and has made great progress. Thank you to the whole team for your wonderful work.

mehrnoosh zadshir, September 2025

Best Sydney music school for children without doubt. We have an amazing teacher, with personal approach to each of the students during group classes, as well as running the group with excellent dynamics and attention to everyone. Great program, carefully created to keep kids interested and progress week by week. Sincere thanks for such a professional environment.

Olga Shershneva, May 2026

Reviews are from the ISM Turramurra listing on Google and are shown as written. Last updated October 2026.

No obligation

Start with a free trial lesson

Thirty minutes with a teacher, on us. Bring any previous exam reports so the teacher can see where the student is. Fees are confirmed at the trial.

1Choose the instrument and the student's age
2Pick a free time from the live schedule
3Meet your teacher and start the following week

Group class places aren't shown online. Tell us your child's age and we'll find the right class.

LIVE AVAILABILITY FROM THE ISM SCHEDULE
Working towards an AMEB exam? Book a free trial to meet a teacher and talk about exam goals, or call 02 9983 9460.