Choral Conducting (Ch.RCCO)

This more advanced choral exam is suitable for candidates who have more extensive professional experience conducting choirs at an advanced level, and requires some formal knowledge of conducting technique. In addition to conducting a choral rehearsal, candidates will be tested on keyboard skills and will complete two written papers including questions on harmony, analysis, and composition as well as choral techniques, history, and literature. No prerequisites; candidates already holding the Fellowship diploma (FRCCO, FRCO, or FAGO) are exempt from Paper I.

Fees
Complete diploma at one session - $650
One section of diploma only (including repeated exams) - $475

Dates
Examinations take place once a year in the spring. Registration opens on January 15, and applications must be submitted by March 1.

Written exams are held on the second Tuesday of May each year.

New in 2026: All practical exams will be held on fixed dates for each centre that is hosting examinations. Candidates will choose a date and location from the list presented as part of the application process. Candidates are expected to arrange their schedules in such a way as to be available on the date scheduled for the exam. No exceptions will be made for changing dates of practical examinations. Specific examination times will be scheduled once applications close. Candidates are welcome to choose any examination centre and date that suits them, but all travel costs will be their own responsibility.  

For applicants in Thunder Bay or outside the provinces of Ontario and Quebec, if there is no examination centre within reasonable distance, we will make an effort to add an additional location closer to their place of residence. Please contact the national office at info@rcco.ca to make a request.

Registration
To register for an exam, click here.

Further Resources
Complete examination details are available on the following pages:             

• Ch.RCCO Exam Syllabus
• Dates, Fees and Application forms
  
• General Examination Regulations
  
• Resources including study material. hymn leaflets and Recording Certification Declaration forms.