In this article, we are going to discuss everything related to piano grades. The topics and FAQs covered in this article are enough for you to understand the grades of piano perfectly.
Do you want to become a professional piano master or a professional musician? If yes, then you must need to know and understand the piano grades properly.
In simple words, the ABRSM piano exam has a total of 8 grades. Of these 8 grades, grade 1 is the easiest and simplest whereas grade 8 is the toughest.
This is just the basic information now let’s move toward our main topics without any further delay.
How Many Piano Grades Are There in the US?
In the US, there are 8 grades of piano which are further divided into 3 main categories. It is theoretically necessary to pass the exams in order since they were designed that way.
It simply means that the student is not allowed to move to the next grade if he/she doesn’t pass the current grade in which they are.
So now let’s discuss these three main categories of piano grades;
Basic Piano Grades
So this piano grade is entry-level for beginners. If you don’t have any knowledge about pianos then this is a great way to make a start, in this way you are able to learn everything about piano from the basics. Beginning pianos go up to grade three.
Piano Grade 1
In this grade, the students have to master scales like G major, A minor, and C major.
Parson’s Farewell, and A Toy, are some of the pieces that can be learned in the piano grade 1.
Piano Grade 2
Aural assessments are included in this grade, along with a more in-depth study of scales and arpeggios.
Rondino by Haydn Waltz, A Minor by Spinder, and Inter-city Stomp by Christopher Norton are just some of the pieces that can be learned during Piano grade 2.
Piano Grade 3
The student should practice scales in contrary motions (such as the E-major) and similar motions (such as the A-major).
Some of the pieces that can be worked on during Piano grade 3 include Mozartina by Marcello Palace, Train Stations by Marcello Palace, and The Secret Room by Marcello Palace.
Intermediate Piano Grades
So this piano grade is perfect for those students who have a little bit of knowledge about the pianos. This grade consists of students who want a professional guide to take their piano playing to the next level. Intermediate piano goes up to grade 5.
Piano Grade 4
Analyzing non-instrumental criteria and focusing on the musical outcome is the main objective of this piano grade.
Some of the pieces that can be worked on during Piano grade 4 include Moonbeams, Minuet & Trio, and I hear what you say.
Piano Grade 5
In this grade, the student needs to master all the previous learned grades but on an advanced level.
Aria by J.S Bach, Plauderei by T.Kiirchner and Rektor by W. Lutoslawski are just some of the pieces that can be learned during Piano grade 5.
Advanced Piano Grades
This piano grade is the last one and it is quite hard too. It takes your piano playing skills to the next level. The advanced piano grade goes up to grade 8 and if you pass grade 8 you will become a professional piano master.
Piano Grade 6
A greater emphasis is placed on aural tests and advanced music.
In Piano grade 6, students can work on pieces such as Andante by T.Ame, Moderato by M.Bruch, and Tugela Rail by D.Brubeck.
Piano Grade 7
Students need to master the audio tests and play three piano compositions beautifully. The skills must be near-perfect and fine-tuned.
Some of the pieces that can be worked on during Piano grade 7 include Sinfonia, Bagatelle, and Pink Minor.
Piano Grade 8
Arpeggios, scales, and broken chords are necessary to master.
Fantasia, Allegro moderato, and Rondo are some of the pieces that can be learned during Piano grade 8.
How Long Does It Take to Go from a Grade to a Higher Grade?
The time period for learning higher grade piano is not specific, it depends from person to person. Some people took 3 years while some people took 6-7 years to learn.
If you are really passionate about piano education then it will be easy for you to learn piano very quickly.
The average time a normal student will take to go from a beginning grade to a higher grade is approximately 5-8 years. Keep in mind that it’s just an average time period, it’s not specific at all.
Tips for Passing ABRSM
Make sure you follow all these tips in order to pass the ABRSM piano exam.
Play piano pieces with an understanding of their context and background. This will help you to perform the piece in the best way possible.
You must be able to play the left hand of the piece by yourself. It will reduce the chances of stumbling and hesitation.
Make sure you are playing every piece at least once a week. If you want to do it every day, yes you can do it but you will need a little break.
Try your best to play through the exam a few times around one week before the exam. By doing so, you will be more comfortable and feel less nervous.
FAQs
1. What Is the ABRSM?
ABRSM stands for Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music. The organization administers music examinations and is a registered charity. Founded in the late nineteenth century, it offers music exams.
2. Is Grade 8 Piano Equivalent to an A-Level?
Yes, grade 8 piano is equivalent to an A-level. In most of the states of the world, the 8 grade is the same as the level 3 qualification. A-levels are an example of a level 3 qualification.
3. How Long Does It Take to Go from Grade 5 to Grade 8 Piano?
It completely depends upon the student how much time he is taking to learn piano grades properly. On average it will take 1 year to almost 18 months for a complete beginner to reach the grade 8 level.
4. What Is the Highest Piano Grade?
Grade 8 is the highest grade in the piano. It’s very tough and you need lots of learning to reach this grade and it’s even tougher to pass this grade.
5. Can I Skip Piano Grades?
One or two levels can be skipped when studying ABRSM piano grades. But it is not recommended at all in any case.
6. What Are the Piano Exams in the US?
The piano exams in the US are the same as in others. It consists of 8 grades that students need to pass in order to become professional pianists.
7. Can Adult Beginners Take Piano Exams?
Yes, adult beginners can take piano exams easily. You need to be focused on your goal so you can easily pass the test.
Conclusion
If you really want to become a professional pianist then you need to know about the piano grades properly.
If becoming a professional pianist is your passion and dream then you need to dedicate a few years of your life to piano grades. The after results will definitely make you feel amazing.
