Exams
ABRSM
ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music) is the UK’s largest music education body, one of its largest music publishers and the world’s leading provider ABRSM’s mission is to inspire achievement in music. In ABRSM exams are one of the most prestigious music assessment programs in the world. They are recognized as the golden standard in evaluating musical achievement in over 90 countries, including the US. Examinations are offered to students of all ages and all levels of proficiency, from the young beginner to the advanced diplomas. Students enter the examinations by preparing a special program of select repertoire and technical requirements such as scales and arpeggios. They are also tested on aural skills, such as sight reading and sight singing, etc. What is great about these exams is the high level of their administration and recognition not only on the state level, but on the international level.
Theory tests are not required until students pass level 5 of ABRSM piano exams. However, in order to move on to grade 6, they are required to take and successfully pass the written test.