IMPORTANT: Please note that this guidance pertains to the updated 2027 Musical Theatre Syllabus (for exams taken from 1st January 2027 onwards). For guidance relating to the 2021 Musical Theatre Syllabus (for exams taken before 31st December 2026), please see here: Musical Theatre Exams (Solo / Duo) - 2021 SYLLABUS


For the Knowledge section of Grade 7 Solo/Duo Musical Theatre examinations, the Learner(s) must discuss the work and influence of one of the composers, librettists or lyricists of their chosen songs (chosen by the Learner).


Discussion about the chosen composer, librettist or lyricist should focus on the nature of their work, their influence on musical theatre and the Learner’s personal response to it, rather than on memorised lists of biographical facts and dates. 


Answers should be analytical rather than factual.


When the Learner is researching the composers, librettists and lyricists, they should consider the following questions:

  • Is there something that springs to mind when they hear their name?
  • Is there a piece of work that is synonymous with their name? Did it define them or hinder them?
  • What is their influence on musical theatre?
  • Who inspired them?
  • Do they have a definitive style of work, or a theme that they prefer to show?
  • Do they write to entertain or educate their audience?
  • Have they inspired other composers, librettists or lyricists? If so, who?
  • What legacy do they have today?
  • Where is the future of their work?
  • Why has the learner chosen to sing the work of this particular composer, librettist or lyricist for their examination?


It will help if the Learner(s) have a general knowledge of the composer’s, librettist’s or lyricist’s biography, as it usually gives an insight into the inspiration for their work. For  example, is their work based on their life or on events that happened to them? Are their characters based on people they knew? The Learner(s) should also aim to know one or two other works by the same composer, librettist or lyricist, in addition to the musical/film musical they have chosen for their examination, to inform their answer.