Trinity Rock & Pop 2018 – Guitar Grade 1

Trinity Rock & Pop 2018 – Guitar Grade 1

The Trinity Rock & Pop 2018 Guitar Grade 1 songbook is the official publication for students preparing for Grade 1 exams under Trinity College London’s 2018–2023 syllabus. Published by Trinity College London Press and distributed by Hal Leonard, this 40-page softcover book includes digital media access for demo and backing tracks, making it the perfect companion for structured practice and exam success.

It features eight carefully selected songs, each supported by performance notes, style tips, and downloadable tracks. The book is designed to build essential beginner guitar techniques such as single-note riffs, power chords, articulation, and picking precision.

Songs Included

• Mr Tambourine Man – Bob Dylan
• Jerk It Out – Caesars
• Love Is the Drug – Roxy Music
• I Can’t Explain – The Who
• Oh Yeah – The Subways
• Ready to Start – Arcade Fire
• September Gurls – Big Star
• Sixteen Saltines – Jack White

Exam Structure

• Song 1 (25 marks): Performed from the book with backing track.
• Song 2 (25 marks): Another in-book selection, or own choice/arrangement/original.
• Song 3 – Technical Focus (30 marks): A piece from the book focusing on two specific technical skills.
• Session Skills / Overall Performance (20 marks):
  • Face-to-face exams: Playback or improvisation.
  • Digital exams: Integrated assessment across all three performances.

Skills & Learning Focus

• Single-note riff playing for melodic clarity
• Power-chord riffing for rock rhythm
• Improving picking precision and hand coordination
• Articulation techniques for stylistic variety

Summary Table

Why Choose This Book?

• Aligned with the official Trinity Rock & Pop Guitar Grade 1 syllabus (2018–2023)
• Includes high-quality demo and backing tracks for realistic practice
• Teaches core skills for early guitarists in a fun, performance-based way
• Features songs from classic rock to indie, ensuring musical variety

Build Solid Guitar Foundations

The Trinity Rock & Pop 2018 Guitar Grade 1 book is the perfect introduction to graded performance exams. Combining accessible repertoire with technical focus and professional backing tracks, it equips students with the skills and confidence needed for success on stage and in their exam.

Trinity Rock & Pop Guitar Grade 1, 2018–2023 syllabus, Trinity College London Press, Hal Leonard, Guitar exam book, Backing tracks, Bob Dylan, The Who, Jack White