ABRSM Piano Exam Types
Exams in Practice
ABRSM practical exams are conventional in-person tests where a teacher evaluates a student’s performance skills, sight-reading abilities, ability to play scales and arpeggios, and auditory abilities. Grade 1 is the entry-level and Grade 8 is the most advanced of the grades assigned to these tests. An examiner assesses the student’s performance during in-person practical tests at an ABRSM testing facility. Read more about Abrsm singapore by visiting our website and if you have any questions related to this topic, connect with us.
Checking the ABRSM test dates and prices and registering within the online booking period are prerequisites for scheduling the exam. Throughout the year, there are three exam editions: March, June, and November. This scheduling window typically opens one month prior to the test. Additionally, you are free to select the time, day, and location, which are always subject to availability.
Tips for Exam Day (for Practical Exams)
Make sure you have everything you need, including your test program, sheet music, and a pen, and arrive early.
Before you enter the test room, take some time to relax and warm up.
As soon as you enter the room, pay close attention to the examiner’s instructions. Instead of playing the improper scale or arpeggio when moving through the technical level (scales and arpeggios), it is usually preferable to inquire again if you didn’t comprehend the instruction. If not, the examiner could conclude that you were unfamiliar with the necessary scale.
Throughout the test, concentrate on your performance and make an effort to ignore any nervousness or distractions. We kindly suggest reading this post to find out how to solve this if you are experiencing difficulties.
Between pieces, take some time to collect yourself and get ready for the next one. Spending a little extra time getting ready for the following piece is always preferable than hurrying and not giving yourself enough time to separate the two performances.
Be sure to show proper performance etiquette and express gratitude to the inspector for their time.
Performance Tests
An alternative to practical examinations, ABRSM performance exams only assess a student’s ability to execute compositions. They were established during the COVID-19 pandemic because in-person tests were not feasible. Students must submit a video clip of their performance for these tests, which are rated from 1 to 8 and evaluated remotely by an examiner. For students who would rather concentrate on their performance abilities without the additional stress of other, more technical assessments, performance exams are perfect. It is crucial to remember that there is no distinction in terms of qualifying between the practical and performance tests.
Taking Your ABRSM Performance Exams and Sending Them in
The official ABRSM website states that as of March 8, 2023, applicants are no longer need to present a program form to the camera at the beginning of the test recording. Instead, when they upload the video, they will be prompted to provide the program details.
Following ABRSM’s instructions for filming and uploading their video performance is essential for students taking ABRSM performance examinations. If the prerequisites are not met, the application may receive a lower grade or, in the worst situations, be rejected outright. Because of this, make sure the video is of a good caliber and shows the performer’s hands and feet clearly, as well as the instrument. Give each section a proper introduction, and make sure the video doesn’t edit or pause.
Make sure the recording area is neat and distraction-free by taking the time to set it up. To show professionalism and respect for the exam process, dress as though you were giving a live performance. As with any other performance, remember to thank the examiners for their time and attention at the end of the vow. In the end, someone will be behind the computer, hearing what you have to say.
Theory Tests
ABRSM theory tests assess a student’s knowledge of composition, harmony, and notation in music theory. These tests, which are offered to students in Grades 1 through 8, are usually taken in addition to performance or practical exams. Depending on the grade level, theory tests can be completed online or in person and are written in format. Grades 6–8 are in-person, whereas Grades 1–5 are online.
It’s crucial to remember that taking the Grade 5 theory test is a must if you want to pursue Grade 6 piano through ABRSM. Always prepare ahead for this, and we always advise maintaining an integrative approach to music education.
Comprehending the Results of the ABRSM Exam
Results for the ABRSM exam are usually accessible a few weeks after the test date. The results contain a breakdown of marks for each exam component along with the overall score out of 150. A minimum score of 100 is required for passing, 120 for merit, or 130 for distinction.
It is crucial to go over the examiner’s comments after the test and utilize them to inform future practice and education. While you should be proud of your accomplishments, you should also acknowledge your areas for growth and collaborate with your teacher to address them in subsequent courses.
