The Arrival of Graded Music Exams in New Zealand: A Case Study of Dunedin up to 1916

Abstract

Toward the end of the nineteenth century a number of external music examining systems were introduced to New Zealand. Two of them, Trinity College, London, and the Associated Board, gained a strong following and became de facto standards in the absence of a national music conservatorium. This article briefly outlines the beginning of external exams in England and follows their export to various overseas members of the British Empire. Graded music exams as a form of tuition engendered considerable debate as to efficacy, merit, and overall validity. Trinity College arrived first in New Zealand, in 1888, followed by the Associated Board in 1897, and their rapid assumption in the southern city of Dunedin is documented and used as a case study of their progress up until 1916. There is a background discussion on the growth and use of post-nominal letters in the local music teaching profession, and the increasing use of formal qualifications by music teachers is noted. These included the professional diplomas from both schools, and the role they played in the formation of a local professional body is explored.