Guitar certification
Level 5 — Professional
To demonstrate professional-level performance, stylistic command and theoretical mastery.
Practical syllabus (guitar)
Technique
- Agreed speed and accuracy benchmarks
- Advanced articulation and tone control
- Stylistic authenticity across chosen genres
Scales and vocabulary
- All major and natural minor scales across the neck
- Harmonic and melodic minor scales
- Pentatonic (major and minor) and blues scales
Repertoire and improvisation
- Five pieces in tabs and chords, including one original composition
- At least one technically demanding work
- Live improvisation over extended progressions
Theory syllabus
Advanced harmony and rhythm
- Chord substitutions and reharmonisation
- Modulation
- Voice leading
- Odd meters (5/4, 7/8) and polyrhythms
Composition and notation
- Writing for guitar
- Lead sheet creation
Sample theory question bank – Level 5
Section A
- What is modulation?
- Explain voice leading.
Section B
- Describe chord substitution techniques.
- Write a lead sheet.
Section C
- Analyze a professional-level piece.
- Compose an 8-bar harmonic progression.