Our History in Music

Music has always been at the heart of what we do. Our awarding organisation has a long history of supporting learners in their musical journeys. Over the years, we have worked with established music companies, schools, and academies worldwide, helping thousands of learners gain meaningful qualifications that celebrate both skill and creativity.

Our qualifications have supported performers across genres, from classical and jazz to contemporary and digital production. Now, with Carnatic, we are extending that commitment further, embracing a globally significant tradition and ensuring learners can achieve recognition that is both culturally authentic and aligned to robust assessment expectations

Why Carnatic Classical?

Carnatic music is renowned for its precision, expressive melodic development, and sophisticated rhythmic structures. It is a tradition built on deep listening, disciplined practice, and confident performance, offering learners a rich pathway to develop both technical control and musical identity.

By formalising this specialism within a qualification route, learners are supported to:

• Build strong foundations – develop secure technique, intonation, and rhythmic accuracy.

• Deepen understanding – explore musical context, stylistic conventions, and performance practice.

• Develop artistry – refine expression, interpretation, and confident stagecraft.

• Gain recognition – achieve a qualification with value for progression in education and the creative industries.

Who Can Take Part?

This pathway is open to:

• Learners of all ages who wish to develop or gain recognition for their training in Carnatic performance.

• Schools and colleges seeking to broaden their curriculum with diverse, globally respected musical pathways.

• International academies and training providers looking for a UK-recognised qualification route to enrich their existing provision.

A Global Approach

We already partner with music institutions around the world, and our qualifications are delivered in a range of settings, including schools, colleges, and independent academies across multiple countries. This Carnatic Classical pathway has been developed with input from subject specialists and experienced practitioners, ensuring it reflects the authenticity of the tradition while meeting high expectations for performance and learner progression.

Assessment

Learners are assessed through a combination of practical performance and contextual knowledge, ensuring that technical skill, musical understanding, and artistry are all valued. Centres and teachers are supported through clear guidance, resource materials, and exemplar support to help deliver the programme with confidence and consistency.

Progression Opportunities

Completing this pathway can support progression into:

• Further study in music performance, composition, or teaching.

• Opportunities within the creative industries, including performance, recording, community music, and cultural projects.

• Wider educational and professional routes that value cultural literacy, discipline, and performance capability.

Why Choose Us?

By studying Carnatic Classical through our Music Performance offer, learners join a community that has championed music education for decades. Our qualifications are trusted, recognised, and designed to celebrate individual talent alongside cultural diversity.

We believe music is more than performance—it is identity, heritage, and connection. This pathway honours that tradition while supporting learners to share their musicianship with the world.

Information for Centres

If you are an interested centre and would like to find out more about offering Hindustani Classical Vocals, please get in touch with us, and our team will be happy to provide details on approval and delivery.

For our existing centres, full qualification information is now available through the new Centre Portal.