Free Backing Tracks For Rock and Electric Guitar Exams (And a little background on exams)

I am an examiner for The London College of Music (LCME) and many of my students sit graded guitar exams. I first experienced exams as a student almost 15 years ago. Being self taught for many years before seeking out some amazing teachers, I hit a wall in my progress and the combination of regular lessons with an experienced teacher and progressing through LCME exams (formerly RGT) not only filled holes in my knowledge and structured my practice, it also introduced me to new styles and ways of playing. Ultimately this also led to me becoming a full time musician.

What you enjoy playing and what you enjoy listening to are quite often different. With all this in mind I have put together some free backing tracks to help students practice improvising solos. Although primarily aimed at the rock guitar syllabus, these will also help anyone studying the electric guitar syllabus. For more information on the difference between the two click here. Please note that although I have been involved in compiling and editing syllabi for LCME these backing tracks are my own work. Although the two guitar syllabi may show the same key or tonality at different grades, remember it’s the range of musical phrasing and complexity of the solo that is being assessed. The first of many videos is below. Have fun!