The Ultimate Parents Guide To ABRSM
what is ABRSM
ABRSM, the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music, is the world’s most respected authority for music exams. With a history spanning over 130 years, ABRSM exams provide a structured, internationally recognised pathway that helps children develop their musical skills step by step.
Whether your child is learning piano, violin, guitar, or voice, the ABRSM grading system offers clear milestones, helping students—and their families—understand how their abilities grow over time.
a structured, internationally recognised pathway that helps children develop their musical skills step by step.
Whether your child is learning piano, violin, guitar, or voice, the ABRSM grading system offers clear milestones, helping students—and their families—understand how their abilities grow over time.
“Our graded music exams are designed to motivate learners of all ages and a wide range of abilities. Each grade has its own requirements and is marked independently, providing realistic goals and tangible rewards for progress.”
(Source: ABRSM.org)
How long does it take to complete each grade
One of the most common questions we hear from parents is “How long will it take my child to reach each grade?”
Because every student is unique, there is no single answer. Progress depends on many factors, such as age, practice habits, previous experience, and the chosen instrument. However, here at Tanglewood Music School Bukit Timah, we draw on decades of collective teaching experience to offer these general guidelines:
Grade 1 typically takes about 1 to 2 years of consistent learning. By this point, students can read simple musical notation, play short pieces with both hands (for piano), and maintain a steady rhythm.
Grade 2 usually follows with another 6 to 12 months of study. At this level, children become more comfortable reading music and begin to refine their basic technique.
Grade 3 requires an additional 6 to 12 months, and students start exploring more expressive phrasing and a broader range of pieces.
Grade 4 often takes 9 to 15 months of preparation. Here, students develop stronger technical control, improve tone quality, and learn to play with greater confidence.
Grade 5 is a significant milestone and generally demands another 9 to 15 months of dedicated practice. At this stage, learners are considered intermediate musicians, able to tackle moderately challenging repertoire and demonstrate good musical understanding. It’s also important to note that before advancing to Grade 6, students must pass Grade 5 Music Theory or an equivalent qualification.
Grade 6 involves 12 to 18 months of study. Students build advanced techniques and begin developing personal interpretation and style.
Grade 7 typically requires 12 to 18 months, culminating in performances that showcase maturity, expressive nuance, and technical fluency.
Grade 8 is the highest graded exam and often takes 18 to 24 months to prepare. Students at this level perform sophisticated repertoire with a professional standard of artistry and technique. Many schools, conservatories, and music colleges accept Grade 8 as proof of serious achievement.
These timelines are approximate, and your child’s journey may be faster or slower depending on their individual pace.
much more than a certificate
ABRSM exams are much more than a certificate. Each grade gives students:
A clear sense of progress. As they master each level, children gain confidence and motivation to continue.
A balanced skill set. Exams assess not only performance but also scales, sight-reading, and aural skills, creating well-rounded musicians.
An internationally recognised credential. ABRSM is respected worldwide, making its qualifications valuable for school applications and scholarships.
A competitive edge in education. Here in Singapore, several of our Tanglewood Music School students have been awarded Direct School Admission (DSA) to top secondary schools, thanks to their strong instrumental proficiency and the achievement of Grade 5 and above.
Our approach at tanglewood Music School bukit timah
At Tanglewood Music School, we have extensive experience guiding students to excel in their ABRSM exams. Our approach includes:
Personalised Lessons: Each student receives one-to-one tuition tailored to their level and learning style.
Technical and Aural Training: We integrate scales, sight-reading, and ear training into weekly lessons to build a strong foundation.
Mock Exams and Performance Practice: We conduct simulated exams so students feel confident and familiar with the exam environment.
Proven Success and DSA Admissions: Tanglewood students consistently achieve high pass rates, with many receiving Merit and Distinction grades.
Several of our students have successfully gained Direct School Admission (DSA) offers to top secondary schools in Singapore, thanks to their strong instrumental proficiency and achieving Grade 5 and above in ABRSM exams.
If you’d like to explore ABRSM exams for your child or see how our proven teaching methods can help, contact us today or visit our studio next to King Albert Park MRT in Bukit Timah.
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