ABRSM, the exam board of the Royal Schools of Music, is pleased to announce changes to its Performance Assessment. The Performance Assessment is an opportunity for musicians of all levels to have their work assessed by a professional musician, where performers receive constructive comments about their playing or singing written on the certificate which they receive at the end of the assessment. Previously only available to candidates aged over 21 or post-Grade 8 (or candidates with special needs), the Performance Assessment will be available as of 1 January 2015 to anyone of any age or grade.

How they work

Performers play or sing a short programme of music of their own choice lasting no longer than 15 minutes in total. Suitable for musicians of all levels, the assessment is delivered by a professional musician providing an objective, independent evaluation with no pass or fail and without marks awarded. Nigel Scaife, Syllabus Director at ABRSM, said, ‘Whether you’re a student preparing for a concert, competition or audition, an adult learner who doesn’t want to complete a full syllabus, or a teacher who is approaching a new genre for the first time, the Performance Assessment is an excellent opportunity to get objective feedback. It provides a focus for developing musicians of all kinds and I'm delighted that it is now open to instrumentalists and singers of any age and level.' To find out more about the Performance Assessment, please visit www.abrsm.org/performanceassessment.