Simon Phillips
Music & Drama Practitioner
Simon Phillips
Music & Drama Practitioner
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    • Home
    • About Me
    • Music Services
      • Piano Tutor
      • ABRSM Music Theory Tutor
      • GCSE Music Tutor
      • A Level Music Tutor
      • Musical Theatre Pianist
      • Exam Accompanist
      • Musical Director
    • Drama Services
      • Audition Coach
      • GCSE Drama Tutor
      • A Level Drama Tutor
      • Theatre Director
    • Reviews
    • Booking
Contact Me
  • Home
  • About Me
  • Music Services
    • Piano Tutor
    • ABRSM Music Theory Tutor
    • GCSE Music Tutor
    • A Level Music Tutor
    • Musical Theatre Pianist
    • Exam Accompanist
    • Musical Director
  • Drama Services
    • Audition Coach
    • GCSE Drama Tutor
    • A Level Drama Tutor
    • Theatre Director
  • Reviews
  • Booking
Contact Me
Close-up of piano keys with wooden frame and warm lighting.

Music Exam Accompaniment in Chester

I offer professional piano accompaniment for graded examinations in instrumental and vocal performance across Chester, Cheshire, North Wales, and the wider North West. As a dedicated music tutor, I frequently work with students preparing for their graded examinations who need a reliable and experienced accompanist for their performance pieces.


With extensive experience as a pianist, music educator, and examiner, I understand the specific requirements of graded examinations and the importance of providing sensitive, supportive piano accompaniment that allows candidates to perform with confidence.


Exam Boards Supported

I am experienced in accompanying students for a variety of examination boards, including:

  • ABRSM 
  • Trinity College London 
  • LCM 

I am familiar with the expectations of graded exams and the meticulous preparation needed to ensure that performances run smoothly on the day.


Preparing for the Exam

Accompaniment for exams typically involves one or two rehearsal sessions followed by accompaniment on the exam day itself.


During rehearsal sessions, we will:

  • Work through each exam piece together 
  • Establish comfortable tempi and musical interpretation 
  • Address balance and ensemble between soloist and piano 
  • Identify passages that require particular coordination 
  • Build confidence performing with accompaniment 

The aim is to ensure that the student feels fully prepared and comfortable performing with the piano part before the exam.


Professional and Supportive Accompaniment

Graded examinations can be stressful for students, especially younger candidates. My role as an accompanist goes beyond merely playing the piano part; I strive to create a calm and supportive musical partnership.


Students can expect:

  • Reliable and well-prepared piano accompaniment 
  • Careful attention to musical detail and ensemble 
  • Flexibility in rehearsal to suit the student’s needs 
  • A supportive approach that helps build confidence 


Exam Accompaniment Fees

I regularly work as an accompanist for instrumentalists and singers preparing for graded examinations. In most cases, accompaniment is arranged as a package that includes two rehearsal sessions and the exam performance itself, ensuring that the student feels confident and fully prepared.


Standard Exam Accompaniment Package

  • Grades 1–3 / Two rehearsals (20 minutes each) + exam performance / £70 
  • Grades 4–5 / Two rehearsals (30 minutes each) + exam performance / £85 
  • Grades 6–8 / Two rehearsals (40 minutes each) + exam performance / £110 


This package includes:

  • Two rehearsal sessions appropriate to the level of the exam 
  • Performance at the examination 
  • Preparation of the accompaniment parts in advance 


Travel

Exam accompaniment at centres within the Chester area is included. For exam centres further afield, a small travel fee may apply.


Higher Level and Alternative Syllabuses

Accompaniment for Diploma-level examinations, Grade 8+ repertoire, or alternative exam boards (such as Trinity, ABRSM diplomas, or other syllabuses) can also be arranged.

Fees for these engagements vary depending on repertoire and preparation time and can be agreed upon individually.


Getting Started

If you would like to discuss piano accompaniment for an upcoming graded examination, please feel free to get in touch.

Next Steps

If you would like to discuss exam accompaniment for an upcoming examination, please feel free to get in touch; please contact me.


Alternatively, use the button below to book me as your exam accompanist.

BOOK ME FOR YOUR EXAM ACCOMPANIMENT

Next Steps

BOOK ME FOR YOUR EXAM ACCOMPANIMENTCONTACT ME

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