Available worldwide from January 2026
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Sign upDigital-only performance diplomas for bass, drums, guitar, keyboards and vocals
Whether you are working with a teacher, self-taught, or already performing as a session or live performance musician, these diplomas will equip you with the higher education level qualification that validates your expertise.
Why choose Trinity College London?
Trinity College London performance diplomas are widely recognised, flexible and designed to support real‑world musical progress. Here’s what makes Trinity College London a preferred awarding body for musicians worldwide:
- World's #1 awarding organisation* for contemporary music qualifications.
- Globally recognised post-nominals — ATCL, LTCL, FTCL: Mapped to regulated frameworks and respected by universities, employers and the music industry.
- Digital & flexible: Record your live set when you’re ready — at home, in the studio or at a gig — and upload securely for assessment.
- Your performance. Your choice: Design your own set list with the artists and songs that best showcase your skills.
- Industry-relevant: Developed with music professionals; assessments focus on practical, real-world performance skills.
- Next step after Grade 8: A clear progression route into higher study and professional musicianship.
A Rock & Pop diploma from Trinity College London gives you the benefit of:
- Respected post-nominals: add ATCL / LTCL / FTCL to your professional signature.
- Career and study progression: a credential recognised by higher-education providers and the creative industries.
*Academic Year Oct 2023-Sept 2024. Based on our analysis of Ofqual data of global certification and awards issued for all Rock & Pop comparable music qualifications where the Awarding Organisation is registered with Ofqual and where qualifications can be taken in England and in other international markets.
Trinity Rock & Pop Diplomas are suitable for advanced contemporary musicians seeking higher-level performance credentials — whether you study with a teacher, are self-taught or already perform live/in the studio.
Exam information
Instruments
Trinity College London offers Rock & Pop diploma exams for bass, drums, guitar, keyboards and vocals.
Levels
Trinity's Rock & Pop diploma levels are all mapped to RQF/EQF.
- ATCL (Level 4): Comparable to first year undergraduate performance standard
- LTCL (Level 6): Comparable to final year undergraduate performance standard
- FTCL (Level 7): Comparable to master’s level performance standard
Entry & access
- Open access: No minimum age and no prior qualification required (though FTCL entrants are strongly advised to have LTCL or equivalent experience).
- Inclusive by design: Reasonable adjustments available; see our accessibility guidance.
How the digital exam works
- Plan your set: Compile a varied, contrasted programme that fits the required total time. (ATCL 32–38 mins; LTCL 37–43 mins; FTCL 42–48 mins.)
- Perform & record: One continuous take, to backing tracks and/or live musicians, then upload your video and song copies via our online platform.
- Expert assessment: external examiners mark performance and set-planning (ATCL/LTCL out of 100; FTCL Approved/Not Approved). Results and feedback delivered online.
Important: This is a digital qualification only; there are no in-person diploma exams for Rock & Pop.