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Exam preparation
Online ABRSM Piano Exam Preparation
Thorough preparation for ABRSM graded piano exams from Grade 1 to Grade 8. Pieces, scales and arpeggios, sight reading, aural tests, and full mock exams with written feedback.
Free 30-minute trial class. No payment, no card.
ABRSM
Grades 1 to 8
Exam entry fees are paid directly to ABRSM and are separate from the lesson fee. We will let you know the current fee when you are approaching exam entry.
International studentsWhat is covered
- All ABRSM grades 1 through 8
- Three pieces from the ABRSM syllabus (A, B, and C lists)
- Scales and arpeggios: full grade-specific ABRSM requirements
- Sight reading: systematic preparation from Grade 1 up, grade by grade
- Aural tests: pulse and rhythm tasks, melodic memory, musical features
- Exam strategy: how to pace yourself, communicate with the examiner, manage nerves
- Full mock exams run under conditions close to the actual exam
- Written feedback after every mock exam: pieces, scales, sight reading, aural
- Advice on ABRSM Grade 5 Theory (required for Grades 6, 7, and 8)
How preparation works
From the trial class to exam day.
Step 1
Assess your current level
In the trial class, we hear the student play and establish exactly where they are relative to the target grade. This shapes the entire preparation plan.
Step 2
Build all four elements together
Pieces, scales, sight reading, and aural are all developed in parallel throughout the preparation period, not rushed in at the end.
Step 3
Mock exams with written feedback
At least two full mock exams before the real one. Written feedback after each, with specific practice tasks to address every weakness before the actual exam.
Step 4
Exam strategy in the final weeks
How to walk in, how to pace yourself, what to do if something goes wrong, and how to communicate with the examiner on the day.
Preparation timelines vary by grade. The trial class gives you an honest estimate for your specific situation.
Questions
About ABRSM exam preparation.
What ABRSM grades do you prepare students for?
Grades 1 through 8.
Do you help with ABRSM Music Theory?
Yes, to a degree. We incorporate theory into lessons and can support up to Grade 5 theory alongside practical work. For Grades 6, 7, and 8, ABRSM requires a pass in Grade 5 Theory before you can sit the practical exam. We will point you toward the right resources and support the theory work within lessons where possible.
How is ABRSM different from Trinity?
Both are internationally recognised boards with a valid qualification at each grade. ABRSM tends to have a stricter mark scheme and places greater emphasis on scales and arpeggios. Trinity gives slightly more candidate choice in the programme of study. Both are widely accepted. If you are not sure which board to choose, we will discuss it in the trial class.
Are exam entry fees included in the lesson fee?
No. ABRSM exam fees are paid directly to ABRSM and are separate from lesson fees. Fees are set by ABRSM and vary by grade and location. We will let you know the current amount when you are approaching the point of registration.
I am working toward Grade 5. How long does preparation take?
If you are already solid at Grade 4 level, targeted Grade 5 preparation typically takes three to six months, depending on how much you practise each week. We assess your current level in the trial class and give you a realistic timeline.
$25 per session, in packs of 24 or 48.
Nothing is payable before the free trial class. Exam entry fees are paid directly to the board.