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Digital Exams
Digital (sometimes called 'Performance' Exams) are a recent addition to exam boards that have proved to be increasingly popular with pupils and teachers.
What are Digital Exams?
For digital exams, pupils record a video of their playing/singing which is submitted to an examiner online.
There is a strong focus on performance elements in these exams. The examiner will be looking at the performer's musical communication, interpretation and technical skill.
Pupils wishing to take grade 6 upwards with the ABRSM exam board must have passed a separate ABRSM Grade 5 Theory Exam.
Exam Structure
Your teacher will make sure you know exactly what you need to do for your exam.
Pupils will need to make a recording of a complete performance using a smart phone, tablet or computer, and upload it to the exam board.
The recording can be made at any suitable time and place
The exam will consist of pre-prepared pieces or songs, and some exam boards will ask for technical exercises too.
Accompaniment
The pre-prepared songs or pieces you learn might be duets (to be played with your teacher) or need accompaniment.
For some digital exams, you can choose to use backing tracks (a recorded track that you play along to) or have live accompaniment from your teacher or a pianist.
Accompanists will need paying for their work and should offer you at least one rehearsal as well as playing at your exam.
Application Process
Your teacher will let you know when you're ready to take an exam - please speak with your teacher before making any exam entries.
You can enter for digital exams at any time and applications can be made online or some teachers will arrange the entry for you.
Exam fees start at around £50+ for grade 1 (2024, excluding accompanist and certificate printing fees) and go up incrementally with each grade.
Exam Boards
Whether you’re after contemporary, classical or jazz grades, all these boards offer something a little different. Some lean towards more traditional academic rigour, some focus on performance and style, whereas others give you the option to tailor technical exercises, embrace composition and test your strengths.
