Dance & Performing Arts

    Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music
    Vocational

    Specification: 100/3536/9

    The ASSOCIATED-BOARD-OF-THE-ROYAL-SCHOOLS-OF-MUSIC Vocational Dance & Performing Arts specification covers 49 topics with 64 learning objectives (100/3536/9). Use the topic browser below to explore subtopics, exam tips, common mistakes, and key terminology for each area of the course.

    This subject will help you develop key knowledge and skills required for exam success.

    49

    Units

    64

    Learning Outcomes

    218

    Assessment Guidance

    234

    Key Skills

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    Key Features

    • Master key concepts
    • Develop exam technique
    • Apply knowledge effectively

    Common Exam Mistakes

    Pitfalls to avoid in your exams

    • •Misjudging slide positions, resulting in intonation issues, particularly in the lower register.
    • •Allowing tension in the embouchure or throat, producing a strained or thin sound.
    • •Inconsistent tempo, especially during technical passages or when nervous, often rushing the easier sections.
    • •Overlooking articulation markings, such as staccato or legato, leading to a monotonous performance.
    • •Neglecting to listen and adjust balance within the ensemble, leading to overpowering or being inaudible.
    • •Over-focusing on technical accuracy at the expense of musical expression in the solo piece, resulting in a rigid performance.
    • •Misunderstanding the structure of the Option test, such as failing to maintain a pulse in Call & Response or improvising out of key.
    • •Playing straight quavers instead of swinging them, resulting in a classical rather than jazz feel.

    Top Examiner Tips

    Expert advice for exam success

    • •Regularly practice scales and arpeggios with a metronome and drone to solidify intonation and rhythm, as these form the backbone of the technical tests.
    • •Use recording devices to self-evaluate tone quality and precision, comparing against professional recordings to develop a critical ear.
    • •In the exam, take a moment to breathe and mentally prepare before starting each piece or test, ensuring a calm and focused first impression.
    • •In the ensemble, prioritize blending and responsiveness; make eye contact with other players to coordinate entries and exits smoothly.
    • •For the solo piece, choose a piece that showcases your strengths and ensure you are comfortable with the technical demands to allow for a confident and expressive performance.
    • •Practice the Option tests regularly as part of your routine; for Call & Response, aim to echo exactly what is heard with clarity and rhythmic precision.
    • •Practice scales with a metronome, first straight, then with swung quavers to internalise the jazz feel and ensure rhythmic accuracy.
    • •Listen to professional jazz flute recordings of the set pieces to absorb stylistic nuances and phrasing ideas.

    Qualification Units

    49 units

    How this qualification is graded

    Vocational qualifications are marked against criteria, not an exam percentage. Each unit is assessed across three bands - build up from Pass by applying your knowledge to realistic workplace scenarios.

    Pass

    Accurately describe and explain the core knowledge for the unit and link it to the given scenario.

    Merit

    Apply and analyse that knowledge in detail, showing why it matters in the workplace context.

    Distinction

    Evaluate and justify decisions, weigh up alternatives and make well-reasoned professional recommendations.

    Bass Trombone Grade 1

    The Grade 1 Bass Trombone examination assesses fundamental instrumental control, including tone production, intonation, and rhythmic accuracy, across a selection of pieces, technical exercises, and supporting tests. Candidates develop essential skills in reading notation, responding aurally, and interpreting music from different genres, laying a solid foundation for progression to higher grades. This practical, holistic assessment reflects the candidate’s ability to communicate musical ideas with confidence and artistry appropriate to the level.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Copper Music Medal

    The Copper Music Medal is the introductory level of the ABRSM Music Medals, designed to assess foundational performance and musicianship skills. Candidates present a solo piece, participate in an ensemble, and complete an option test, fostering both independent musicality and collaborative awareness. This qualification provides a structured pathway for early-stage learners to develop essential interactive, listening, and leadership abilities within a supportive framework.

    ABRSM Entry Level Award in Music Performance

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Jazz Flute Grade 1

    The Grade 1 Jazz Flute examination introduces candidates to foundational jazz performance techniques, including swing articulation, blues tonalities, and improvisation readiness. Through prescribed pieces, technical exercises, and musicianship tests, learners develop essential skills in rhythm, expression, and stylistic interpretation, building a solid base for further jazz study.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Tenor Saxophone Bb Grade 1

    The ABRSM Grade 1 Tenor Saxophone examination assesses foundational musical and technical skills through the performance of three pieces from contrasting style lists, a range of scales and arpeggios up to one flat, sight-reading a simple melodic passage, and responding to aural tests focusing on rhythm, pitch, and musical memory. The candidate must demonstrate secure breath control, correct embouchure formation, accurate fingerings, and a developing sense of musical phrasing suitable for this introductory graded level.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes12 guidance points

    Horn Grade 1

    This element assesses foundational horn performance at Grade 1, requiring candidates to demonstrate tone control, accurate pitching, and musical expression across three contrasting pieces, as well as technical fluency in scales, arpeggios, sight-reading, and aural skills. Practical application includes developing embouchure stability, hand position in the bell, and rhythmic precision, essential for progression in horn playing.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes12 guidance points

    Trombone Grade 1

    This subtopic focuses on developing fundamental trombone technique for Grade 1, including tone production, slide positions, and articulation through the performance of simple pieces in varied styles. Candidates learn to demonstrate basic technical control via scales and arpeggios, and apply these skills in sight-reading and aural tests, building essential musicianship for further study.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Clarinet Grade 1

    The Clarinet Grade 1 examination assesses foundational instrumental skills through the performance of three stylistically varied pieces, technical exercises (scales/arpeggios), sight-reading, and aural tests. It measures the candidate's ability to produce a controlled tone, maintain rhythmic accuracy, and respond musically to notation and listening tasks.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Harp (Pedal) Grade 1

    This element focuses on building foundational pedal harp technique at Grade 1 level, enabling candidates to perform simple pieces from contrasting styles, manage basic pedal changes, and demonstrate essential musicianship skills. Practical application includes developing hand independence, tone production, and rhythmic accuracy, while preparing for the specific technical and aural requirements of the ABRSM examination.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Tuba Grade 1

    This subtopic covers the ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1) for tuba, assessing foundational skills in performance, technique, and musicianship. Candidates perform three pieces from contrasting styles, demonstrate scales and arpeggios, sight-read a short excerpt, and respond to aural tests to evaluate pitch, rhythm, and listening skills.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    5 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Jazz Trumpet Grade 1

    The Jazz Trumpet Grade 1 exam assesses the candidate’s foundational skills in jazz performance, including playing set pieces with stylistic understanding, executing technical exercises such as scales and arpeggios suitable for the grade, and demonstrating aural awareness and improvisatory ability. This qualification emphasizes the development of a relaxed embouchure, rhythmic accuracy, and an authentic jazz tone, preparing students for more advanced jazz studies and ensemble playing.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Jazz Piano Grade 1

    This element focuses on developing foundational jazz piano skills at Grade 1, including performing set pieces with stylistic awareness, executing technical exercises that build dexterity and rhythmic precision, and responding to aural tests that assess musicianship. Learners will explore swing feel, basic blues patterns, and improvisation through call-and-response, applying these to real musical contexts. The practical application lies in building confidence for live performance and laying the groundwork for advanced jazz studies.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Guitar Grade 1

    Guitar Grade 1 introduces foundational performance and technical skills, requiring candidates to present three contrasting pieces, demonstrate secure control of basic scales and arpeggios, and respond to sight-reading and aural tests. The focus is on establishing accurate note reading, rhythmic precision, tone production, and a musical awareness appropriate to this introductory level, providing a structured basis for further instrumental development.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Harp (Non-pedal) Grade 1

    The Grade 1 Harp (Non-pedal) examination establishes foundational technical and musical skills on the lever harp. Candidates perform three contrasting pieces demonstrating stylistic awareness, execute prescribed scales and arpeggios, and respond to sight-reading and aural tests that develop essential musicianship.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Euphonium Grade 1

    This element focuses on developing fundamental euphonium skills at an introductory level, requiring candidates to perform three pieces from different style periods, demonstrate technical fluency through scales and arpeggios, and respond accurately to musicianship tests. It assesses the candidate's ability to produce a controlled tone, maintain steady pulse, and exhibit basic musical understanding in a graded examination context.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Cello Grade 1

    The Cello Grade 1 examination assesses fundamental performance skills and musicianship at an elementary level. Candidates present three contrasting pieces, perform specified scales and arpeggios to demonstrate technical control, and complete sight-reading and aural tests that evaluate musical perception. This foundational assessment builds essential techniques for expressive and accurate cello playing, preparing learners for further graded studies.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Descant Recorder Grade 1

    The Descant Recorder Grade 1 examination focuses on establishing secure foundational technique, tone production, and musical awareness. Candidates perform three contrasting pieces, demonstrate specified scales and arpeggios, respond to sight-reading, and undertake aural tests, all indicative of early-stage musicianship. Successful performance requires controlled breathing, accurate finger placement, rhythmic precision, and an expressive yet appropriate response to the stylistic demands of simple repertoire.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes11 guidance points

    Organ Grade 1

    The Organ Grade 1 exam develops foundational skills in pipe or digital organ performance, focusing on manual and pedal coordination, basic registration, and the ability to perform simple pieces from contrasting styles. Candidates learn to manage posture, hand and foot positioning, and listening skills to produce a balanced and musical sound.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Jazz Soprano Saxophone Bb Grade 1

    This element focuses on developing foundational skills in jazz soprano saxophone performance at Grade 1 level. Learners will prepare and perform pieces from the ABRSM Jazz syllabus, demonstrating stylistic awareness and technical control. Additionally, they will complete technical exercises and musicianship tests designed to build essential aural and improvisational abilities.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    5 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Jazz Tenor Saxophone Bb Grade 1

    This element develops foundational jazz tenor saxophone performance, blending technical command with stylistic awareness. At Grade 1, learners present three contrasting pieces, technical exercises, and respond to aural tests, building secure tone, articulation, and rhythmic precision. It establishes the essential skills for expressive, idiomatic playing in a range of jazz-influenced styles.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Jazz Trombone Grade 1

    Jazz Trombone Grade 1 introduces candidates to fundamental trombone techniques applied in a jazz context, focusing on basic slide positions, simple syncopated rhythms, and the development of a warm, rounded tone suitable for swing and blues styles. Through prescribed pieces, technical exercises, and aural tests, learners begin to explore improvisation, articulation contrasts, and stylistic phrasing essential for early jazz performance.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Alto Saxophone Eb Grade 1

    The Grade 1 Alto Saxophone exam evaluates foundational performance skills through three contrasting pieces, technical exercises (scales and arpeggios), sight-reading, and aural tests. Candidates must demonstrate accurate note production, rhythmic control, tonal consistency, and basic musical expression appropriate to the grade. The assessment integrates instrumental technique with broader musicianship to establish a solid basis for continued development.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes12 guidance points

    Harpsichord Grade 1

    This element introduces the fundamental techniques of harpsichord performance at Grade 1, focusing on Baroque repertoire. Learners develop finger independence, clean articulation, and stylistic ornamentation essential for the plucked-string mechanism. The synopsis bridges technical exercises with expressive performance, preparing candidates for the unique demands of early keyboard music.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Double Bass Grade 1

    This subtopic covers the assessment components for the ABRSM Grade 1 Double Bass examination, focusing on performance of three chosen pieces, technical work including scales and arpeggios, sight-reading, and aural tests. It builds foundational instrumental skills such as bowing technique, intonation, and rhythm, preparing candidates for formal music performance assessments.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Jazz Clarinet Grade 1

    The Jazz Clarinet Grade 1 examination introduces foundational jazz performance skills, including the execution of swing rhythms, basic articulation styles, and simple melodic improvisation over blues and modal backings. Candidates learn to interpret notation with an authentic feel, blending technical control with expressive phrasing typical of early jazz and blues traditions.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Jazz Cornet Grade 1

    Jazz Cornet Grade 1 introduces fundamental skills in jazz performance, focusing on developing a warm, centred tone, secure rhythmic feel, and stylistic articulation appropriate to swing and blues styles. Students learn to perform set pieces with controlled phrasing and basic improvisation, alongside technical exercises that build range and finger dexterity. This foundation prepares candidates for more advanced jazz expression and technical demands in subsequent grades.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Oboe Grade 1

    ABRSM Grade 1 Oboe examination assesses foundational instrumental control through performance of three contrasting pieces, technical work (scales and arpeggios), sight-reading, and aural tests. Candidates demonstrate basic tone production, articulation, and musical shaping appropriate to early repertoire, while developing essential ensemble and solo skills relevant to woodwind performance.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Piano Grade 1

    The Piano Grade 1 examination assesses foundational performance, technical, and musicianship skills. Candidates present three contrasting pieces, demonstrating accurate notes, rhythm, and basic musical expression. The exam also evaluates technical fluency through scales, arpeggios, and broken chords, and tests essential musicianship via sight-reading and aural tasks, providing a holistic snapshot of the learner's early-stage instrumental competence.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Singing Grade 1

    Singing Grade 1 introduces fundamental vocal skills through performance of selected songs, developmental exercises, and aural tests. Candidates learn to control breathing, produce clear tone, maintain pitch, and communicate simple musical ideas expressively. This level builds a solid foundation for musical literacy and confident performance.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    5 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Cornet Grade 1

    The Cornet Grade 1 examination assesses the candidate's foundational skills in tone production, embouchure control, breath support, and musical literacy. Candidates perform a selection of pieces from contrasting styles, demonstrate technical fluency through scales and arpeggios, and respond to aural tests that evaluate listening and musical perception. This level establishes essential technique and musicianship for further graded progression.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Flugelhorn Grade 1

    The Flugelhorn Grade 1 exam assesses foundational musical skills through the performance of three pieces, technical exercises including scales and arpeggios, and aural awareness tests. Candidates must demonstrate secure breath control, accurate pitch, clean articulation, and musical expression appropriate to the grade, building essential competencies for further progression.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Jazz Baritone Saxophone Eb Grade 1

    The Grade 1 Jazz Baritone Saxophone exam introduces candidates to fundamental jazz performance techniques and musicianship skills on the Eb baritone saxophone. Through the preparation of three contrasting jazz pieces, technical work including scales and arpeggios, sight-reading, and aural tests, learners develop key competencies in tone production, rhythmic feel, improvisational awareness, and stylistic interpretation. This foundational assessment establishes essential habits for authentic jazz performance and provides a structured pathway for artistic and technical growth on a lower woodwind voice within jazz ensembles.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes13 guidance points

    Cornet Bb Grade 1

    The ABRSM Grade 1 Cornet examination assesses fundamental musicianship through performance of three contrasting pieces, technical exercises including scales and arpeggios, and basic aural tests. Candidates are expected to demonstrate secure tone production, accurate rhythm, and musical engagement appropriate to this introductory level.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes12 guidance points

    Flute Grade 1

    This subtopic encompasses the integrated skills required for the ABRSM Grade 1 Flute examination, blending performance of three contrasting pieces with technical proficiency in scales, arpeggios, and musicianship tests. Learners develop foundational tone, accurate finger technique, and interpretative awareness, demonstrating their ability to perform set works with expression and respond to aural and sight-reading challenges within a regulated vocational assessment.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Harp Grade 1

    The Harp Grade 1 examination focuses on establishing foundational performance skills, including secure note accuracy, rhythmic control, and appropriate tone production. Candidates demonstrate this through three contrasting pieces, technical exercises involving scales and arpeggios in keys up to one sharp or flat, and aural awareness that underpins musical communication. Practical application is rooted in developing relaxed posture, effective hand coordination, and an initial understanding of expressive playing on either lever or pedal harp, setting the stage for progressive advancement.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes11 guidance points

    Soprano Saxophone Bb Grade 1

    The Soprano Saxophone Bb Grade 1 exam assesses foundational instrumental skills through performance of three contrasting pieces, technical exercises (scales, arpeggios, and a study), and musicianship tests. Candidates must demonstrate correct posture, breath control, tone production, and rhythmic accuracy across simple melodies, while also exhibiting aural perception through clapping, singing, and pitch discrimination tasks. Successful completion validates the learner's ability to navigate basic repertoire and technical patterns with confidence and musicality.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Baritone Saxophone Eb Grade 1

    This subtopic focuses on the foundational skills for baritone saxophone at Grade 1, as assessed by ABRSM's Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance. Candidates will learn to perform three contrasting pieces from the syllabus, demonstrating control of tone, articulation, and rhythmic accuracy, alongside technical work such as scales and arpeggios in keys up to one sharp or flat. The musicianship tests develop essential aural and sight-reading abilities, integrating practical musicianship with instrumental technique.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Baritone Grade 1

    Grade 1 Baritone introduces the foundational techniques of brass performance, encompassing a diverse selection of pieces from contrasting styles, technical work such as scales and arpeggios, and musicianship tests including sight-reading and aural assessments. Building a secure embouchure, breath control, and accurate valve coordination is central to success at this level.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Tenor Horn Eb Grade 1

    The Tenor Horn Eb Grade 1 examination assesses fundamental musicianship through the performance of three contrasting pieces, technical work (scales, arpeggios, and studies), sight-reading, and aural tests. This level establishes core skills in tone production, articulation, breath control, and musical expression, preparing candidates for progression in brass playing.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes11 guidance points

    Trumpet Grade 1

    This subtopic focuses on the foundational skills required for a Grade 1 trumpet examination, encompassing the preparation and performance of selected pieces from diverse musical styles, the execution of prescribed technical exercises such as scales and arpeggios, and the demonstration of aural awareness and sight-reading abilities. It assesses the candidate's emerging musicality, instrumental control, and ability to respond accurately to set musicianship challenges in a structured examination setting.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    4 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Singing for Musical Theatre Grade 1

    This subtopic introduces the foundational skills for singing in a musical theatre context at ABRSM Grade 1, focusing on performing expressive and stylistically varied songs, developing secure vocal technique through prescribed exercises, and applying musicianship skills such as sight-singing and aural awareness. Practical application involves building confidence in storytelling through song, mastering basic vocal control, and interpreting musical notation accurately to meet assessment criteria.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Viola Grade 1

    This module introduces foundational viola performance skills through the ABRSM Grade 1 syllabus, requiring candidates to perform three contrasting pieces, execute prescribed technical exercises, and respond to aural and sight-reading tests. Mastery of these elements builds essential musicianship, instrumental control, and expressive confidence necessary for progressive study.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Eb Horn Grade 1

    The ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1) for Eb Horn focuses on establishing foundational instrumental skills, including tone production, basic finger technique, and the ability to perform simple pieces from a range of musical styles. Candidates must also demonstrate technical fluency through scales and arpeggios, and respond to musicianship tests that develop essential aural awareness.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Treble Recorder Grade 1

    The Grade 1 Treble Recorder exam assesses fundamental skills in posture, breath control, finger technique, and musical expression. Candidates perform three contrasting pieces, demonstrate technical facility through scales and arpeggios, and respond to sight-reading and aural tests to prove well-rounded musicianship. This level establishes the foundation for more advanced study and encourages confident, enjoyable performance.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Jazz Flugelhorn Grade 1

    This element focuses on the Grade 1 Jazz Flugelhorn exam from ABRSM, which assesses fundamental performance skills in a jazz context. Candidates perform three pieces from contrasting lists, demonstrate technical proficiency through scales, arpeggios and a study, and respond to musicianship tests including aural, sight-reading or improvisation, and quick study. The exam develops core musicality, technical control, and stylistic awareness appropriate to the jazz idiom on the flugelhorn.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Percussion Grade 1

    Percussion Grade 1 introduces fundamental techniques on tuned and untuned percussion instruments, focusing on the development of basic stick control, rhythmic accuracy, and musical expression. Candidates perform three pieces chosen from the syllabus list, demonstrate technical proficiency through prescribed scales and arpeggios or study, and exhibit aural and sight-reading skills. This grade establishes a solid foundation for percussionists, requiring consistent tempo, clear articulation, and dynamic contrast across a variety of musical styles.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes11 guidance points

    Drum Kit Grade 1

    This subtopic focuses on assessing a candidate's foundational drum kit performance skills at Grade 1, including the ability to play three contrasting pieces with stylistic awareness, execute specified technical exercises (such as single strokes and simple fills), and demonstrate musicianship through sight-reading and aural tests. Practical application encompasses building coordination, rhythmic accuracy, and dynamic control essential for ensemble playing and further study.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Bassoon Grade 1

    The Bassoon Grade 1 examination assesses the foundational instrumental skills of a beginner bassoonist. Candidates perform a selection of pieces from contrasting lists, demonstrating basic tone production, rhythmic accuracy, and musical expression. The technical work covers the first steps in scale and arpeggio patterns, while the supporting tests evaluate sight-reading and aural perception essential for ensemble playing.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes12 guidance points

    Violin Grade 1

    Violin Grade 1 introduces foundational instrumental skills through the preparation and performance of three contrasting pieces, technical exercises, and supporting tests. It develops basic bow control, left-hand finger placement, intonation, and musical awareness, enabling students to communicate simple musical material with accuracy and expression in a structured assessment context.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Jazz Alto Saxophone Eb Grade 1

    This unit prepares students for the ABRSM Grade 1 Jazz Alto Saxophone exam, focusing on performing three contrasting pieces with stylistic authenticity, executing required scales and arpeggios with appropriate articulation, and responding to aural tests that assess rhythmic recall, pitch matching, and musical perception within a jazz context.

    ABRSM Level 1 Award in Graded Examination in Music Performance (Grade 1)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

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