The new ABRSM piano examination syllabus for 2023 & 24 is now available! As with previous syllabuses, we will be creating an extensive library of resources featuring walk-throughs of selected repertoire from all grades alongside materials on technical requirements and general preparation.
The new syllabus
Coming into effect from January 2023, the new syllabus contains music by a diverse range of composers – including 47 who have not previously been featured, and an unprecedented number of female composers. 70% of pieces from the former syllabus has been retained, offering candidates scope to draw on previously-learned repertoire if they wish. With plenty of “other pieces” for each list per grade, there is something for everyone in this syllabus!
Our resources
In our video walkthroughs we will be covering at least 2 pieces for each of the three lists per grade and a sampling of works from the “other pieces” listings. We will also be publishing videos on the scale requirements for each grade, with practice suggestions and ideas for teachers. As before, the walkthroughs will focus on style and interpretation, overcoming the technical challenges, as well as many suggestions for practice. The first videos will launch in September, with the remaining videos coming shortly thereafter.
Who they are for?
Our resources for examination syllabuses are likely to be of particular interest to piano teachers and exam candidates. However, we’ve found that they are also very useful to pianists who aren’t taking exams but are looking for exciting new repertoire and to use the syllabus as a guide.
Online Workshop – A Preview of the Syllabus
Join us on Wednesday 13th July @ 15:00 BST (GMT + 1) for an online workshop in which Graham Fitch shares his thoughts on the new ABRSM syllabus and gives a preview of our planned resources for it, including tips on learning, interpreting and practising a few repertoire selections from elementary, intermediate and advanced grades. Click here for more information and to book your place!
Resources & events for previous syllabuses
The following is some of the feedback that we’ve received for our resources and online events featuring previous syllabuses:
- “Essential advice for any teacher preparing students for an exam or looking for graded repertoire ideas for their students.”
- “Although I’m not planning on doing exams, I discovered some lovely new pieces with loads of practical suggestions for how to learn and practise them!”
- “These workshops are a very nice complement to the Online Academy videos by giving the opportunity to ask questions and discuss specific topics. Graham was able to provide me with some excellent tips for assisting a student with a particular trouble spot.”
- “Graham has a unique ability to apply his vast knowledge at any level and show how to bring works from each grade to life!”
Access & updates
These videos will form part of the Online Academy’s extensive library of online content and will all be available to subscribers as they are published. Click here if you’d like to find out more about subscription options or click here to subscribe.
More information on our resources for other examination boards and previous ABRSM syllabuses is available here and you can get further updates and notifications on this project by signing-up to our mailing list. In the meantime, here is a video previous of some of our resources for Grade 8 of the previous ABRSM syllabus (links to previews for other grades are available here):