Short answer: The most common guzheng grading route in Hong Kong is the Central Conservatory of Music (CCOM, Beijing) grade examination, run locally by the HKEAA, with grades 1–9 plus a performance level. Candidates play one étude and two pieces from the official overseas-edition repertoire book. Fees are set by the HKEAA each year — please check the official HKEAA page. Tiao's guzheng teachers help students prepare for graded exams.

Levels and eligibility

  • Grades 1–9 and performance level, with no age limit.
  • Grades 7–9: require a CCOM Grade 1 theory certificate obtained in Hong Kong.
  • Performance level: requires guzheng Grade 9 plus Grade 2 theory.
  • Only one grade per instrument per year.
A Tiao student playing the guzheng

What's in the exam?

According to the HKEAA's 2026 application guideline:

  • Performance: from the CCOM guzheng overseas-edition repertoire book, candidates choose one étude and two pieces for their grade.
  • Oral test (grades 1–6): questions on the book's text section, sight-singing in number notation, and rhythm reading or clapping.
  • No accompaniment is used.

Your teacher will help choose pieces that show off your strengths.

Guzheng-specific points

  • Guzheng candidates may bring their own instrument or use one provided at the venue — you choose when applying.
  • Either way, you tune it yourself; examiners won't help and no tuning tools are provided.
  • Candidates under 18 must play from memory; 18+ may use the score.
  • Bring the original repertoire book into the exam room.
  • Formats can change year to year — always read the latest official announcements.

How to prepare

  1. Teacher assessment to choose the right grade.
  2. Start theory early, especially for higher grades.
  3. Practise tuning — you'll do it yourself on the day.
  4. Mock exams in front of an audience.
  5. Care for your guzheng and picks — see Five Essentials of Guzheng Care.

Tiao offers guzheng group classes (HK$1,080 for 4 lessons) and 1-to-1 lessons, the latter popular for focused exam prep. Details on the Guzheng Lessons page.

FAQ

How much does the guzheng exam cost?
Fees are published by the HKEAA each year — see the official page.

Do I have to bring my own guzheng?
No. Guzheng candidates can choose their own instrument or one provided at the venue, stated at application.

Do Tiao's teachers help with exam prep?
Yes, our teachers help students prepare for graded exams.

Book a HK$200 guzheng trial

Guzheng loan included. About 3 minutes from Mong Kok MTR Exit E2.

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