More info about the Grade Exams:

AN COIMISIÚN LE RINCÍ GAELACHA (CLRG)

Examination Authority An tÚdaras Scrúdaíthe

Dancers Certificate and Diploma Examinations Scrúdaíthe Teastais agus Dioplomaí Rinceoirí.

The purpose of the Grade Examinations is to provide a structured framework within which dancers are presented with an Irish Dance Diploma for progressing towards an achievable goal. The syllabus has been designed to provide a strong foundation in Irish Dance by developing a candidate’s physical skills, stamina, expression, musicality and an appreciation and knowledge of the traditional dances and culture. It provides a worthwhile sense of achievement for individuals whether they dance solely for health, recreation or competitive reasons or hope to pursue a career in Irish Dancing.

Grade examinations are unlike competitions in that each candidate is individually examined and receives a detailed written assessment of their performance and knowledge of the grade being attempted. They are open to ALL no dancers, regardless of age and ability.

The scheme consists of 12 grades with each grade becoming increasingly more demanding on the candidate’s skill, knowledge and ability. Each Grade must be passed and certificate awarded before a candidate may attempt the next level. A dancer who successfully completes all Grades will be awarded “The Diploma of the Irish Dancing Commission”.

All 12 Grade Examinations must be completed to be eligible to apply for the TCRG Examination

All candidates must produce previous reports before proceeding to higher grades.

Reports must be presented at examinations.

Rules & Regulations

1. Only Basic Steps may be danced in the Preliminary grade and Grades 1, 2 & 3.

2. The number of bars of music to be danced to for all Reels, Single or Hop Jigs, Light Jigs, Slip Jigs, Heavy Jigs and Hornpipes is 40 (2.5 steps).

3. St. Patrick’s Day, Blackbird, Garden of Daisies, Job of Journeywork, King of the Fairies Three Sea Captains, and Jockey to the Fair must be performed in a traditional style and manner.

4. The same set dance must not be performed in more than one of the Grades from 9 to 12 inclusive.

5. A dancer must take all grades in order, beginning with Grade 1. Most dancers do 2 or 3 grades at a time, however, a candidate may only attempt a maximum of 6 consecutive Grades at any one sitting. (Grades 1-6 only).

6. Candidates must be able to adequately demonstrate practical and theoretical knowledge of all ceili dances as per “Ár Rincí Céilí ” as specified in the syllabus for Grades 5 -12 inclusive.

7. Solo dance costumes should not be worn.

8. All candidates must produce previous reports before proceeding to higher grades. Reports must be presented at examinations.

9. Grade 11 may only be attempted by candidates at least 16 years of age.

10. Grade 12 may only be attempted by candidates at least 17 years of age.

11. A special application form and certificate/diploma will apply for Grades 11and 12.

12. All 12 Grade Examinations must be completed to be eligible to apply for the TCRG Examination

13. Scrúdú Béil (Oral Irish Exam) for grades 1-4 in Ireland.

14. Dancers taking the exams must be associated with a currently registered CLRG teacher.

40 bars of music must be danced to for all Reels, Single or Hop Jigs, Light Jigs, Slip Jigs, Heavy Jigs and Hornpipes. Music Speeds as per CLRG Rules.

Notes:

1. A three month period must elapse before subsequent grades are attempted

2. The same examiner may not examine the same dancer for a period of 3 years.

Grade Exam Fees:

(approximate due to currency conversion):

Grades 1-3: $35 each approx

Grades 4-6: $50 each approx.