The new qualification involves no written or spoken elements, and no sight reading, aural tests or scales
The ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music) has added a new performance qualification to its diploma level examinations. The new assessment, titled Associate of the Royal Schools of Music (ARSM), provides musicians with 'an opportunity to develop and demonstrate their performance skills after Grade 8' and will be available on all instruments currently examined by ABRSM worldwide from 2017.
The assessment involves a 30-minute performing programme, including at least 20 minutes of music chosen from the ARSM repertoire list and up to 10 minutes of own-choice repertoire of at least Grade 8 standard.
Unlike the body's DipABRSM and Grade 8 examinations, the new qualification involves no written or spoken elements, and no sight reading, aural tests or scales.
'The diploma, which is supported by the Royal Schools of Music, is suitable for musicians who are looking for a challenge after grades and will provide a meaningful goal to work towards,' said ABRSM chief examiner John Holmes. 'ARSM is unique in focussing solely on practical performing skills – nothing more, nothing less. It’s about the art and craft of musical communication through a half-hour programme which you choose and put together according to your own individual musical strengths and enthusiasms.'
For more information visit www.abrsm.org/newdiploma
No comments yet