Some people only have to hear the word “exam” and they will freeze up and panic. Music exams can be daunting, but there is no need to worry. We’ve provided some of the top tips to pass your ABRSM piano exam.
If you are looking to learn piano in Singapore then exams are essential. They don’t have to be overly difficult, though.
Table of Contents
1. Do Past Papers
Here I have listed free ABRSM music theory exam papers. You can use these to get an idea of what to expect, and to brush up on your knowledge. Past papers are relatively inexpensive, and they are a good indicator of what will come up in your test.
2. Tie Knowledge To Real World Examples
Some of the best piano pop songs involve real examples of the music theory knowledge you need to know for the exams. Use these songs as a way to remember musical terms and theory that is required in the examination. For example, you might remember a popular piano song that has a key change in it.
3. The Right Frame Of Mind
This tip is not really anything to do with music. Instead, it is the simple advice that you should get yourself in the right frame of mind for an exam. Eat properly, ensure you have slept, and enter the exam with confidence.
4. Always Check The Fundamentals
This is a common error to make. People forget to check the clef, the key and time signatures and accidentals of the music in question. This knowledge is as basic as knowing how to read piano notes, but if you forget to communicate it then you may have ruined your chances of passing the exam. All for such a simple error.
5. Mnemonics And Memory Games
Have you ever wondered how people perform memory tricks? There are a number of memory games you can use for the fundamental information that you need for your exam.
Mnemonics are another type of memory game, for example, you may remember “Every Good Boy Deserves Football” as a way to remember EGBDF, the notes on the lines of the treble clef.
6. Get Warmed Up
Make sure it isn’t the first time you’re looking at sheet music or the first time you are playing your instrument on that day. Musicians need a loosener, and this can help you to go into the exam with more confidence.
7. Teach Others
In the weeks leading up to your exam, try to teach others about the techniques and theory involved. Studies have shown that teaching is a great way to cement knowledge in your own brain and ensure you fully understand something. This can be a wonderful way to prepare for the ABRSM piano exam.
Conclusion
Exams are rarely easy, so don’t be too tough on yourself.
Using the methods above, and putting the time and hard work in, will vastly improve your chances of passing, or getting a Merit or Distinction grade on your ABRSM piano exam in Singapore.
