UMA Vocal Music Proficiency Certification – Official Examination Guide
United Musicians Association Vocal Certification
1. Introduction
The UMA Vocal Music Proficiency Certification is designed for vocal learners worldwide, covering a variety of singing styles including classical, folk, pop, musical theatre, and art songs.
The examination is conducted via online video submissions, assessed by certified international UMA examiners.
Certification levels range from Grade 1 to Grade 9, with a Performance Diploma level for evaluating concert-level vocal technique and artistic expression.
2. Eligible Vocal Styles
This certification is open to candidates studying the following styles:
Bel Canto (Classical Singing)
Chinese Folk / Traditional Singing
Pop and Contemporary Vocal
Musical Theatre
Art Songs (Lied, Mélodie, etc.)
Children’s Vocal Music (for ages 6–12)
3. General Requirements
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Number of Songs | Grades 1–5: Submit 2 songs Grades 6–9: Submit 3 songs Performance Diploma: Submit 4 songs showcasing various styles |
| Repertoire | UMA recommended repertoire or self-selected pieces approved by a qualified teacher. Songs must match the level; no off-level submissions allowed. |
| Recording Guidelines | Each song must be recorded in one continuous take. The candidate’s face, mouth, and performance gestures must be clearly visible. |
| Accompaniment | Piano accompaniment, backing tracks, or a cappella are allowed. Background music must not overpower the vocals. Auto-tune or vocal enhancement tools are strictly prohibited. |
| Language Requirements | Any language is acceptable; original language preferred. Commonly accepted languages include Mandarin, Italian, German, French, and English. Accurate pronunciation is essential. |
| Intro Speech | Each video must begin with a brief English self-introduction: name, age, country/city, grade level, vocal style, years of training, and musical passion. |
| File Size Limit | Each video must not exceed 1GB. If necessary, split into multiple files. Formats accepted: MP4, MOV, AVI. |
| File Naming | Use the format: “FullName + GradeLevel” (e.g., AmyLiu_Grade5) |
4. Repertoire Requirements by Level
Grades 1–5 (Beginner to Intermediate)
Number of Songs: 2 songs of contrasting styles
Examples: Simple folk songs, children’s art songs, beginner Italian pieces, elementary pop melodies
Goal: Develop basic pitch control, breath support, tone placement, articulation, and emotional awareness
Grades 6–9 (Advanced to Pre-Professional)
Number of Songs: 3 songs covering different styles and ideally two languages
Examples: Arias, Lieder, musical theatre pieces, intermediate pop ballads, regional folk art songs
Goal: Build advanced technique (e.g., passaggio management, dynamics, expression), and strong stage presence
Performance Diploma
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Number of Songs | 4 songs representing at least three different styles or genres (e.g., aria, art song, musical theatre, traditional folk) |
| Performance Level | Candidates must demonstrate advanced vocal control, stylistic command, authentic language delivery, and expressive maturity |
| Submission Format | Songs may be recorded separately; each must be performed in one complete take without editing |
| Certification | Qualified candidates will receive the UMA Vocal Performance Diploma certificate |
Suggested Repertoire (not limited to):
Italian classical songs (e.g., Caro mio ben, Amarilli mia bella)
German Lieder (e.g., Der Erlkönig, Widmung)
French Mélodies (e.g., Fauré, Debussy)
Chinese art songs (e.g., At the Faraway Place, I Live at the Source of the Yangtze)
Opera arias (e.g., Libiamo, Un bel dì vedremo)
Musical theatre works (e.g., Memory, On My Own, The Phantom of the Opera)
Approved pop/contemporary songs (original English lyrics preferred)
5. Assessment Criteria
| Evaluation Dimension | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Pitch & Technique | 30 pts | Intonation, breath control, vocal agility, transitions, resonance |
| Expression & Style | 30 pts | Emotional connection, stylistic authenticity, articulation |
| Completion & Delivery | 30 pts | Song structure, climax control, tempo, and accuracy |
| Presentation & Quality | 10 pts | Stage manner, attire, video/audio clarity, camera confidence |
Pass: Total score ≥ 75
With Distinction: Total score ≥ 90 (awarded “Distinction” label)
6. Video Submission Guidelines
Orientation: Horizontal (landscape) recording
Visual Requirements: Performer’s facial expression and singing technique must be clearly visible
Equipment: Smartphones or cameras permitted; external microphones recommended
Editing: No cutting, audio processing, or reverb allowed
Instrument Use: No automatic pitch correction or vocal effects tools
Naming Format: “FullName + GradeLevel” (e.g., SarahWang_Grade8)
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