Budding rock stars are being challenged to make the grade through exams being offered locally for the second year running. Guitarists, keyboard players and drummers can take exams under the Rockschool syllabus via the Department of Education and Children’s Music Service. John Kinley, from the Music Service, said: ‘Young performers have an opportunity to gain qualifications in popular music that are on a par with those already taken by their peers on orchestral or band instruments. ‘Students taking the exams will perform three pieces, in contrasting styles, chosen from Rockschool’s repertoire, and will demonstrate their technical skills through scales or drum rudiments and their ability to sight read music and/or improvise. ‘Exams start at grade one, or, for some instruments, a debut grade, and go up to grade eight and students can select their grade according to their ability.’ John said: ‘Rockschool is the only music exam board in the British Isles that specialises in rock and pop exams. ‘Many of the students studying guitar or drums with teachers from the Music Service will enter, but there is still space should private candidates wish to enter.’ The closing date for entries is 1st April. Details of how to enter are available on Rockschool’s website http://www.rockschool.co.uk/ or entrants can contact the Music Service on 01624 686555 for assistance. Exams will be held at the Music Centre in Lord Street, Douglas, on 7th and 8th July. Ends