VCE VET Music Performance exam-day guide
VCE VET Music Performance · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Photo ID
Bring current photo identification (e.g., passport, driver licence, or student card) as required for admission. Confirm the exact accepted forms with your provider before the day.
Performance program / set list
Prepare a written list of your pieces, including titles, composers/arrangers, and durations. Check with your provider whether multiple copies are needed for assessors.
Instrument and accessories
Bring your primary instrument, plus any required accessories (reeds, strings, sticks, straps, cables, capos, tuner, metronome). Confirm with the provider what equipment is supplied versus what you must supply.
Music scores and charts
Bring legible copies of your performance scores or charts. If you perform from memory, bring a copy for the assessors in case it is required. Confirm the provider's policy on original versus photocopied scores.
Backing tracks or accompaniment files
If using a backing track, bring it on a clearly labelled USB or device in the required format (e.g., MP3/WAV) and a backup copy. Confirm with the provider the playback format and whether a technician is available.
Water and a small snack
Stay hydrated and maintain energy. Keep items quiet and out of the performance area. Confirm with the provider whether food and drink are allowed in waiting areas.
Warm-up plan
Prepare a short, effective warm-up routine for your voice or instrument. Arrive early enough to warm up without rushing. Confirm with the provider whether a warm-up room is available.
Performance attire
Wear neat, comfortable clothing that allows freedom of movement and suits the performance context. Confirm with the provider if there is a dress code.
Arrival and registration details
Know your exact reporting time, venue address, parking/transport options, and registration desk location. Confirm these details with your provider in advance.
Emergency contact and provider phone number
Save the provider's exam-day contact number and your emergency contact in your phone. Confirm the best number to call if you are delayed.
needs_review: Specific equipment restrictions
Check with your provider whether there are restrictions on electronic devices, effects pedals, or amplification. Policies vary by venue.
needs_review: Score annotation rules
Confirm with the provider whether you may use annotated scores or whether clean copies are required.
Plan the day
Run full mock performances under timed conditions, including walking on, setting up, performing, and bowing/leaving. Record yourself and review for timing, presentation, and accuracy. Finalise your program order and confirm all equipment and music are ready. Check venue travel details and plan your arrival time. Avoid learning new repertoire; consolidate what you know.
Do a light technical warm-up and run through pieces at a comfortable tempo. Pack your instrument, accessories, scores, ID, backing tracks, and attire. Charge any electronic devices and prepare backup files. Confirm your reporting time and set two alarms. Eat well, hydrate, and get a full night's sleep. Avoid strenuous practice that could cause fatigue or injury.
Eat a normal meal and hydrate. Do a gentle warm-up (scales, breathing exercises, lip trills) rather than a full run-through. Arrive at the venue with time to spare (aim for at least 30–45 minutes early, or as advised by your provider). Register, locate warm-up and waiting areas, and review your starting points or first bars. Stay calm and focused; avoid comparing yourself to others.
Follow the assessor's instructions. Set up efficiently and tune silently if possible. Announce your pieces briefly if required. Perform your program as rehearsed, maintaining focus and recovering gracefully from any slips. Keep going if you make a mistake. At the end, acknowledge the assessors and exit quietly. Do not discuss your performance with other candidates in the waiting area.
Rules to check
Bring and present the identification required by your provider. If you do not have acceptable ID, you may not be admitted; confirm the exact requirements with your provider beforehand.
Arrive at the venue at your allocated reporting time. Late arrival may result in missed performance time or non-assessment; confirm the provider's late-arrival policy.
Follow all venue and provider instructions regarding setup, sound levels, and equipment use. Do not adjust venue equipment without permission.
Breaks and waiting arrangements are set by the provider. Confirm where you should wait, whether you may leave the venue between components, and what supervision applies.
Use only the equipment and materials permitted by the provider. Confirm restrictions on electronic devices, backing tracks, and scores before the day.
Perform only the works listed in your program or as approved by the provider. Substituting works without approval may affect assessment.
Scoring is conducted by assessors against the published criteria. Do not ask assessors for feedback or results on the day; results are released through the provider's official process.
Maintain academic integrity and respectful conduct. Any misconduct may be reported and could affect your result; confirm the provider's misconduct policy.