Trombone

Trombone from 2023 Practical Grades from 2023

Practical Grades

GRADE 1
THREE PIECES: one chosen by the candidate from each of the three Lists, A, B and C; for further details see
pages 14–16
COMPOSER PIECE / WORK / ARRANGER PUBLICATION (PUBLISHER)

A 1 Lizzie Davis Andover Amble (No. 1 from The Brass Player’s Lizzie Davis: The Brass Player’s Guide to Britain (Lizzie
Guide to Britain) SOLO Davis), ) or & editions
2 Jock McKenzie Slavonic Dance (from Parpetudes for Beginner Jock McKenzie: Parpetudes for Beginner Brass (Con
Brass) upper part DUET Moto), ) or & trombone editions
3 Mozart Theme from a Musical Joke, arr. Lawrance SOLO Easy Winners (Brass Wind), ) trombone or & brass
editions
4 Trad. The Cuckoo, arr. Lawrance candidate to start in Easy Winners (Brass Wind), ) trombone or & brass
round DUET/SOLO editions
5 Sancho Les Matadors (from Minuets, Cotillons and Brass Mix 1 (ABRSM), )/& brass edition
Country Dances), arr. Frith upper part in duet
DUET/PIANO

6 Philip Sparke Morning Minuet (No. 1 from Skilful Studies for Philip Sparke: Skilful Studies for Trombone (Anglo
Trombone) SOLO Music), )/& edition
7 Susato La Morisque, arr. Lawrance Winner Scores All (Brass Wind), ) trombone or & brass
editions
8 Anon. Going Up Camborne Hill, arr. Tanner Cornish Pastiche (Spartan Press), ) trombone/tuba or
B - & brass editions
9 Philip Sparke Marching Home (No. 7 from Skilful Studies for Philip Sparke: Skilful Studies for Trombone (Anglo
Trombone) SOLO Music), )/& edition
10 Adrian Taylor A Short March for Short Arms (No. 1 from Adrian Taylor: Simple Studies on Trombone Technique
Simple Studies on Trombone Technique) SOLO (Warwick Music), ) or & editions
B 1 Ascher Alice (Theme from Open All Hours), Win Win (Brass Wind), ) trombone or & brass editions
arr. Lawrance
2 L. Bernstein One Hand, One Heart (from West Side Story), Easy Winners (Brass Wind), ) trombone or & brass
arr. Lawrance editions
3 Tom Davoren Romanza Shining Brass, Book 1 (ABRSM), )/& brass edition
4 Tom Davoren Waltz for E. Shining Brass, Book 1 (ABRSM), )/& brass edition
5 W. H. Monk Eventide, arr. Douglas upper part in duet Famous Hymns and Marches (Warwick Music), ) or B - &
DUET/PIANO editions
6 H. Parker Deep Harmony, arr. Douglas upper part in duet Famous Hymns and Marches (Warwick Music), ) or B - &
DUET/PIANO editions
7 Trad. Chinese Xiao Baicai, arr. Frith upper part in duet Brass Mix 1 (ABRSM), )/& brass edition
DUET/PIANO

8 J. S. Bach Chorale (from St. Matthew Passion) (arr.) Boosey Brass Method, Repertoire Book B (Boosey &
Hawkes), ) trombone or & B - Brass Band Instruments
editions
9 Peter Graham Paris (No. 2 from Cityscapes) Peter Graham: Cityscapes for B - Instrument (Gramercy
Music), )/& edition
10 Humperdinck Evening Prayer (from Hänsel und Gretel), Winner Scores All (Brass Wind), ) trombone or & brass
arr. Lawrance with repeats editions
C 1 Lizzie Davis Beefy Bongo (from Polished Brass) SOLO Lizzie Davis: Polished Brass (Brass Wind), ) or & brass
editions
2 Jock McKenzie Bratwursts (from Parpetudes for Beginner Brass) Jock McKenzie: Parpetudes for Beginner Brass (Con
upper part DUET Moto), ) or & trombone editions
3 Peter One, Two, Three! SOLO Shining Brass, Book 1 (ABRSM), )/& brass edition
Meechan
4 David A. Strollin’ Shining Brass, Book 1 (ABRSM), )/& brass edition
Stowell
5 Mark A Small Step (No. 1 from Easy Jazzy ’Tudes) Mark Nightingale: Easy Jazzy ’Tudes (Warwick Music), )
Nightingale SOLO or & trombone editions

80 Piano accompaniment published separately

Practical Grades Trombone from 2023 Grade 1

COMPOSER PIECE / WORK / ARRANGER PUBLICATION (PUBLISHER)

6 Rendall & Birdie Song, arr. Lawrance Winners Galore (Brass Wind), ) trombone or & brass
Thomas editions
7 C. M. Smith & The Barnyard Rag, arr. Pankhurst upper part in Brass Mix 1 (ABRSM), )/& brass edition *
B. Johnson duet DUET/PIANO
8 African- All Night, All Day, arr. Lawrance Easy Winners (Brass Wind), ) trombone or & brass
American editions
Spiritual
9 Pam Wrap It Up (from Really Easy Jazzin’ About for Pam Wedgwood: Really Easy Jazzin’ About for Trombone
Wedgwood Trombone) (Faber), )/& edition
10 Zimmer & I’ve Got My Eye On You (from Pirates of the Winner Scores All (Brass Wind), ) trombone or & brass
Morris Caribbean), arr. Lawrance editions

SCALES AND ARPEGGIOS: from memory; for further details see pages 16–17
Bass clef RANGE ARTICULATION
SCALES
B - major
G minor (natural or harmonic or melodic, 1 oct. tongued
at candidate’s choice)
ARPEGGIOS
B - major
1 oct. tongued
G minor

Treble clef RANGE ARTICULATION

SCALES
C major
A minor (natural or harmonic or melodic, 1 oct. tongued
at candidate’s choice)
ARPEGGIOS
C major
1 oct. tongued
A minor

SIGHT-READING: a short piece of previously unseen music; for further details see pages 18 & 26–28
AURAL TESTS: given by the examiner from the piano; for further details see pages 160 & 161

Piano accompaniment published separately 81

* available November 2022
 3. Brass Practical Grades Syllabus from 2023
Introducing the syllabus
A number of changes have been made in the 2023 Brass Practical Grades Syllabus:
• The repertoire lists for all instruments have been refreshed, with a mixture of new and retained
pieces.
• At Grades 1 to 5, a number of pieces are shared across all instruments (excluding French Horn).
For ease of use, all shared pieces appear shaded , in the same order at the top of each list.
• The lists are now defined by musical characteristics, encouraging candidates to play a balanced
selection of pieces and demonstrate a range of skills.
• Unaccompanied solos are now optional. They are included across the lists, according to their
musical characteristics. Candidates may choose to perform up to two of them.
• A duet option is offered at Grades 1 to 3.
• The new scale requirements focus on technical development and progression, achieved through
a realistic and manageable assessment load.
• There are new Sight-reading requirements for all brass instruments.
• At Grades 6 to 8, the Sight-reading and Transposition tests (Horn and Trumpet only) have been
combined into one Sight-reading test, part of which must be transposed.
• A new Adapted Instruments Policy has been introduced; instruments adapted for beginners can
now be used in exams at any grade, as long as all the exam requirements can be met.
Some key exam information has also been updated or clarified.

Practical Grades: requirements and information

This syllabus is valid from 1 January 2023 until further notice.
This section provides a summary of the most important points that teachers and candidates
need to know when taking ABRSM Practical Grades for brass. Further details, as well as
administrative information about the exams, are given in ABRSM’s Exam Regulations (available
at www.abrsm.org/examregulations) which should be read before making an exam booking.

Instruments
The Practical Grades syllabus requirements have been designed for the standard instruments
covered. ABRSM recognise that many learners start their musical journey by using an instrument
specially adapted for younger/smaller players. We welcome the use of these instruments in our
graded exams in accordance with the details set out in our Adapted Instruments Policy, available
at www.abrsm.org/policies.
Please note that using an adapted instrument sounding in a key different to the standard
instrument may restrict options in the Aural Tests at Grades 4 to 8 (see pages 163–167).
The repertoire lists show publication details, including clefs and where piano accompaniments are
published separately. In addition, for pieces marked ‡ further information about the publications
(including where parts/accompaniments are issued in different keys) is available at: www.abrsm.
org/clarifications.
Other information about certain instruments covered by this syllabus is as follows.
Horn: The accompanied pieces set on the repertoire lists are published in F editions.

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Practical Grades  3. Brass Practical Grades Syllabus from 2023

Some pieces are published with transposition suggestions but, in the exam, they should be played
in the written keys only.
Trumpet/B - Cornet/Flugelhorn: These instruments share the same repertoire lists. All the pieces
are published for instruments in B - unless otherwise indicated. Some pieces may be played on an
E - /C trumpet where the syllabus indicates a published edition (or where other suitable editions
are available).
E - Soprano Cornet: At Grades 1 to 5, shared pieces that appear shaded have piano accompaniment
available in E - . Piano accompaniments for other pieces on the list can be suitably transposed.
At Grades 6 to 8 there are a number of options for E - instruments. Candidates may choose other
pieces from the repertoire lists and adapt passages or transpose parts and/or accompaniments
as necessary for their instrument.
Related instrument option: At all grades, candidates for any of the above four instruments (Trumpet,
B - Cornet, E - Soprano Cornet, Flugelhorn) have the option of playing one piece (from any list) on
one of the other three instruments. There is no advantage to be gained over other candidates in
taking this option, and all the other requirements must be played using the instrument on which
the candidate has entered.
E - Horn: All the accompanied pieces set on the repertoire lists are published in E - editions. Pieces
that are also published with a part in F are indicated in the lists.
Trombone: There are separate syllabuses for Tenor and Bass trombones. Bass Trombone exams
are available at Grades 6 to 8 only. The repertoire lists show the clefs that the pieces are published
in ( ) , é and/or & ). If necessary, candidates may use manuscript transpositions into treble or
bass clef.
Tenor trombone candidates may play their pieces on E - Alto Trombone. Further information can
be found in our Adapted Instruments Policy, available at www.abrsm.org/policies. At Grades 1 to
5, shared pieces that appear shaded have piano accompaniment available in E -.
Trombone: At Grades 6 to 8, candidates may play one of their three pieces on a bass trombone
(chosen from the corresponding grade of the Bass Trombone syllabus). If choosing a piece from
the Bass Trombone syllabus, candidates must make sure that the requirement to play one piece
from each of the three lists (A, B and C) is met. A candidate may play up to two unaccompanied
solos.
Bass Trombone: Candidates may play one of their three pieces on a tenor trombone (chosen
from the corresponding grade of the Trombone syllabus). If choosing a piece from the Trombone
syllabus, candidates must make sure that the requirement to play one piece from each of the three
lists (A, B and C) is met. A candidate may play up to two unaccompanied solos.
There is no advantage to be gained over other candidates in taking this option, and all the other
requirements must be played using the trombone on which the candidate has entered.
Baritone and Euphonium: These instruments share the same repertoire lists. The lists show the
clefs that the pieces are published in ( ) and/or & ). If necessary, candidates may use manuscript
transpositions into treble or bass clef. A three-valved instrument may be used at all grades.
Candidates may adapt passages containing notes that require a 4th valve (where an ossia is not
published).

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 3. Brass Practical Grades Syllabus from 2023 Practical Grades

Tuba: An E -, F, B - or C tuba may be used. Candidates may adapt passages or transpose parts
and/or accompaniments as necessary for their instrument (Note: many of the pieces set on the
repertoire lists are biased towards E - tuba).
A three-valved instrument may be used at all grades. Candidates may adapt passages containing
notes that require a 4th valve (where an ossia is not published).

Pieces
Musicians learn to play an instrument to explore and perform repertoire, which is why pieces
are at the core of the exam – candidates are asked to present three at each grade. The syllabus
repertoire is organised into three lists that explore different traditions and styles, dating from
the Renaissance period to the present day.
Choosing one piece from each list gives candidates the opportunity to play a balanced selection
and demonstrate a range of skills. In this syllabus, the pieces are broadly grouped into lists by
the characteristics of the music:
• List A pieces are generally faster moving and require technical agility (focus mostly on
dexterity and articulation)
• List B pieces are more lyrical and invite expressive playing (focus mostly on breath control/
support and the sound made)
• List C pieces reflect a wide variety of musical traditions, styles and characters.
Most of the pieces require an accompaniment, as interacting with other musicians is an
important musical skill, but there are also opportunities to choose solo pieces and develop
confidence with unaccompanied playing.
We hope that by offering this variety in the syllabus, candidates will find inspiring music that
they enjoy learning and performing.

Programme planning: Candidates must choose one piece from each of the three lists (A, B and
C). In the exam, they should inform the examiner which pieces they are performing, and they are
welcome to use the form on page 184 for this purpose.
Every effort has been made to feature a broad range of repertoire to suit and appeal to candidates
of different ages, backgrounds and interests. Certain pieces may not be suitable for every
candidate for technical reasons, other pieces may not be suitable because of wider context
(historical, cultural, subject matter, lyrics if an arrangement of a song, etc.). Pieces should be
carefully considered for their appropriateness to each individual, which may need consultation
between teachers and parents/carers. Teachers and parents/carers should also exercise caution
when allowing younger candidates to research pieces online: www.nspcc.org.uk/onlinesafety.
The repertoire lists are the same as for ABRSM Performance Grades. Candidates intending on
taking both qualifications at the same grade may find their musical development benefits from
preparing different pieces for each.
Accompaniment/Duets: A live piano or brass (where the option is listed) accompaniment is
required for all pieces, except those that are published as studies or unaccompanied works.

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Practical Grades  3. Brass Practical Grades Syllabus from 2023

At Grades 1 to 3, candidates may choose to perform a duet for some or all of their pieces. The
pieces that are published as duets are marked DUET in the repertoire list and the candidate must
play the part specified.
Pieces that are published with both brass and piano accompaniment options are marked
DUET/PIANO in the repertoire list, and may be performed with either accompaniment in the exam.

Candidates must provide their own accompanist(s), who can only be in the exam room while
accompanying. The candidate’s teacher may accompany (examiners will not). If necessary, an
accompanist may simplify any part of the accompaniment, as long as the result is musical.
Recorded accompaniments are not allowed.
Solos: Unaccompanied solos are marked SOLO in the repertoire lists. Candidates are not required
to play a solo in the exam, but may play up to two.
Exam music & editions: Wherever the syllabus includes an arrangement or transcription
(appearing as ‘arr.’ or ‘trans.’ in the repertoire lists), the edition listed in the syllabus must be
used in the exam. For all other pieces, editions are listed for guidance only and candidates may use
any edition of their choice. This includes editions that are downloaded. Information on sourcing
exam music is given on page 16.
Interpreting the score: Printed editorial suggestions such as fingering, metronome marks,
realisation of ornaments, etc. do not need to be strictly observed. Whether the piece contains
musical indications or not, candidates are encouraged to interpret the score in a musical and
stylistic way. Examiners’ marking will be determined by how control of pitch, time, tone, shape
and performance contributes to the overall musical outcome.
Repeats: Unless the syllabus specifies differently, all da capo and dal segno indications must be
followed but other repeats (including first-time bars) should not be played unless they are very
short (i.e. a few bars).
Ossias: Where an ossia (alternative musical line or note) occurs in the music, candidates may
play either option unless the syllabus specifies differently.
Cadenzas & tuttis: Cadenzas should not be played unless the syllabus specifies differently.
Accompanists should cut lengthy orchestral tutti sections.
Performing from memory: Candidates may perform any of their pieces from memory; if doing so,
they must make sure that a copy of the music is available for the examiner to refer to. No extra
marks are awarded for playing from memory.
Page-turns: Examiners will be understanding if a page-turn causes a lack of continuity during
a piece, and this will not affect the marking. Candidates may use an extra copy of the music or
a photocopy of a section of the piece (but see ‘Photocopies’ below) to help with page-turns.
Candidates at Grades 6 to 8 may bring a page-turner to the exam if there is no solution to
a particularly awkward page-turn (prior permission is not required; the turner may be the
candidate’s teacher). Similarly, an accompanist for a Grade 6 to 8 exam is permitted to bring a
page-turner to assist with turns in the piano part. Examiners are unable to help with page-turning.
Photocopies & downloads: Performing from unauthorised photocopies (or other kinds of copies)
or illegal downloads of copyright music is not allowed. In the UK, copies may be used in certain
limited circumstances – for full details, see the MPA’s Code of Fair Practice at www.mpaonline.
org.uk/mpa-guidelines. In all other cases, application should be made to the copyright holder
before any copy is made, and evidence of permission should be brought to the exam.
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 3. Brass Practical Grades Syllabus from 2023 Practical Grades

Candidates and Applicants are expected to act within the law with regard to copyright. ABRSM
may withhold the exam result where we have evidence of an illegal copy (or copies) being used.
Sourcing exam music: Exam music is available from music retailers and online, including at the
ABRSM music shop: www.abrsm.org/shop. Every effort has been made to make sure that the
publications listed will be available for the duration of the syllabus. We advise candidates to
get their music well before the exam in case items are not kept in stock by retailers. Non-exam
related questions about the music (e.g. editorial, availability) should be addressed to the relevant
publisher: contact details are listed at www.abrsm.org/publishers.

Scales and arpeggios

Playing scales and arpeggios is important for building strong technical skills such as reliable
finger movement/slide control and fluency. It also helps to develop tone, pitch and interval
awareness, and familiarity with keys and their related patterns. This leads to greater confidence
and security when sight-reading, learning new pieces and performing – from a score or from
memory, as a solo musician or with others.

Memory: All requirements must be played from memory.

Range: All requirements must be played from the lowest possible tonic/starting note unless the
syllabus specifies differently. They must ascend and descend according to the specified range
(and pattern).
Rhythm: All requirements must be played in even notes.
Patterns: Arpeggios and dominant sevenths are required in root position only. All dominant
sevenths must finish by resolving on the tonic. Examples of scale/arpeggio etc. patterns specified
in this syllabus are given on pages 19–25.
Articulation: Slurred requirements must be legato throughout. The choice of breathing place is
left to the candidate’s discretion, but the flow should be maintained as much as possible.
Transposing instruments: The naming of scales applies to the fingering, not the concert pitch;
for example, D major for trumpet in B - will sound in C, not D.
In the exam: Examiners will usually ask for at least one of each scale/arpeggio (etc.) type. Where
applicable, they will ask for majors followed by minors within each type and will also ask to hear a
balance of articulations across the requests as a whole. When asking for requirements, examiners
will specify:
• the key† (including minor form – harmonic or melodic – in the Grades 6 to 8 scales) or the
starting note
• the articulation
Supporting publications: Books of the requirements are published for all brass instruments by
ABRSM. Purchasing these books is not a requirement.

† Where keys at Grades 6 to 8 are listed enharmonically – D -/C + and A -/G + – the examiner will use the flat spelling when asking for major keys
16 and the sharp spelling for minor keys.
Practical Grades  3. Brass Practical Grades Syllabus from 2023

Speed: The following speeds are given as a general guide:

Trombone Grade/Speed

pattern 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Scales
(including chromatic, iq q = 44 q = 48 q = 56 q = 63 q = 72 q = 96 q = 108 q = 120
extended-range & whole-tone)

Arpeggios
(excluding extended-range) iiq e = 56 e = 63 e = 76 e = 88 e = 100 q . = 40 q . = 44 q . = 48

Dominant & diminished 7ths;

Extended-range arpeggios iq q = 44 q = 50 q = 56 q = 66 q = 72

Scales in 3rds iq q = 84 q = 100 q = 112

All other brass Grade/Speed

pattern 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Scales
(including chromatic, iq q = 50 q = 56 q = 63 q = 72 q = 80 q = 104 q = 112 q = 126
extended-range & whole-tone)

Arpeggios
(excluding extended-range) iiq e = 66 e = 72 e = 84 e = 92 e = 108 q . = 40 q . = 44 q . = 48

Dominant & diminished 7ths;

Extended-range arpeggios iq q = 46 q = 54 q = 60 q = 66 q = 72

Scales in 3rds iq q = 88 q = 100 q = 120

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 3. Brass Practical Grades Syllabus from 2023 Practical Grades

Sight-reading (and transposition)

Sight-reading is a valuable skill with many benefits. Learning to sight-read helps to develop quick
recognition of keys, tonality and common rhythm patterns. Strong sight-reading skills make
learning new pieces quicker and easier, and also help when making music with others, so that
playing in an ensemble becomes more rewarding and enjoyable.

About the test: Candidates will be asked to play a short unaccompanied piece of music that they
have not seen before. They will be given half a minute to look through and, if they wish, try out all
or any part of the test before they are asked to play it for assessment.
Transposition (Horn and Trumpet only): At Grades 6 to 8, the Sight-reading tests for Horn and
Trumpet candidates will include a section of transposition. Candidates will be given up to half a
minute in which to look through and, if they wish, try out all or any part of the test before they are
required to play it for assessment.
Parameters: The tables on pages 26–28 show the elements that are introduced at each
grade.
Supporting publications: For practice purposes, sample sight-reading tests are published by
ABRSM. Purchasing these books is not a requirement.
Blind or partially-sighted candidates: Blind or partially-sighted candidates may choose an
alternative test (Braille memory or Aural repetition) in place of the standard test, if requested at
the time of booking the exam. Further information is available at www.abrsm.org/specificneeds.

Aural tests
Listening lies at the heart of music-making and the ability to hear how music works helps with
all aspects of musical development. Aural skills help with gauging the sound and balance of
playing, keeping in time and playing with a sense of rhythm and pulse. These skills also help to
develop a sense of pitch, musical memory and the ability to spot mistakes.

About the test: The requirements are the same for all brass instruments. Full details of the Aural
tests are given on pages 160–167.
Supporting publications: For practice purposes, sample Aural tests are published by ABRSM.
Examples of the tests are given in Specimen Aural Tests and Aural Training in Practice. Purchasing
these books is not a requirement.
Deaf or hearing-impaired candidates: Deaf or hearing-impaired candidates may choose
alternative tests in place of the standard tests, if requested at the time of booking the
exam. Further information, including the syllabus for the alternative tests, is available at
www.abrsm.org/specificneeds.

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Practical Grades  3. Brass Practical Grades Syllabus from 2023

Scale and arpeggio patterns

The examples on the following pages clarify patterns and ranges found in this syllabus. Reference
should be made to the appropriate syllabus pages for the full requirements for each instrument.

All instruments
Scales and arpeggios

to a twelfth

V bbbb œ œ œ œ œ œ œ œ œ œ œ œ œ etc.

V bbbb œ œ œ œ œ œ œ œ œ œ œ œ œ ™
one octave and down to the dominant

V bbb œ œ œ œ œ œ œ œ œ œ œ œ œ œ œ œ œ œ œ œ œ V bbb œ œ œ œ œ œ œ œ œ œ ™
Melodic minor ending (E - Soprano Cornet only)

V bbbb œ œ œ œ œ œ = œ = œ œ

Scales in thirds

one octave (and similarly, two octaves)

V bb œ œ œ œ etc. œœœœœœœ etc.

œœœœœ
B bb
œœœœœ

Dominant sevenths (resolving on tonic)

one octave (and similarly, two octaves)

V bb œ œ œ œ œ œ œ œ œ

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 3. Brass Practical Grades Syllabus from 2023 Practical Grades

Sight-reading parameters
The following tables show the elements that are introduced at each grade. These parameters are
presented cumulatively, i.e. once introduced they apply for all later grades (gradually progressing
in difficulty). See also page 18.

Length Time Other features that may be included

(bars)
Grade 1 4 4 ⁄4 • h . h q iq note values; Î rests


3 ⁄4 • notes tongued only
6 2 ⁄4 • f and mf

Grade 2 8 • iiiq and q . e patterns; rests

• articulation
• trombone: notes tongued only
• others: notes tongued or with simple two-note slurs
• tied notes
• mp and cresc. hairpin
Grade 3 3⁄8 • accidentals (within minor keys only)
• q . ; simple semiquaver patterns; ä rests
• articulation
• trombone: as Grade 2
• others: three-note slurs
• accents
• p and dim. hairpin
Grade 4 c. 8 6⁄8 • chromatic notes
• articulation
• trombone: notes tongued or with simple two-note slurs
• others: four-note slurs
• anacrusis
• tenuto
• pause sign
Grade 5 c. 8–16 • w and simple syncopation
• articulation
• trombone: as Grade 4
• others: any combination of tongued or slurred notes
• slowing of tempo at end
• ff and pp
Grade 6 c. 12–16 9⁄8 • changes of time signature
5⁄8 • Å rests
5 ⁄4 • articulation
• all: any combination of tongued or slurred notes
• triplet patterns
• slowing of tempo followed by a tempo
• fp, sf, subito, cresc., dim. (written)
• swung style
• trombone: tenor clef
• transposition
• horn: transposition into E -
• trumpet: transposition into C

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Practical Grades  3. Brass Practical Grades Syllabus from 2023

Length Time Other features that may be included

(bars)
Grade 7 c. 16–20 7⁄ 8
7⁄4
Grade 8 c. 16–24 12 ⁄ 8 • triplet crotchets
• acceleration of tempo
• simple ornaments

Keys
MAJORS Horn Trumpet, B - Cornet, Baritone & Trombone & Trombone ) & Tuba )
minors E - Soprano Cornet, Euphonium ) Bass Trombone
Flugelhorn, E - Horn, (Grades 6–8 only)
Baritone, Euphonium
& Tuba &
C C B- C B- E-
Grade 1
a a g d c c

Grade 2 B- D, B - C, A - D, B - C, A - F, D -

G
Grade 3
d d c e d f
E- A G F E- C
Grade 4
b e d a g g
A, E, F E, F, E - D, E -, D - G, E, E - F, D, D - G, F +, A -
Grade 5
g, c b, c a, b - f +, c e, b - d, e -
D G F A G B-
Grade 6
f f e- f e- g+
A- A- F+ A- F+ B
Grade 7
e g f g f b-
D- B A B A D
Grade 8
b- c+ b c+ b e

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 3. Brass Practical Grades Syllabus from 2023 Practical Grades

Ranges †
Horn Trumpet, B - Cornet, Baritone & Trombone Trombone Bass Tuba )
E - Soprano Cornet, Euphonium & ) Trombone
Flugelhorn, E - Horn, )
Baritone, Euphonium
& Tuba &
Grade 1 c′–c″ c′–c″ B - –b - c′–c″ B - –b - — E - –e -
Grade 2 b - –d″ b - –d″ A - –c′ b - –d″ A - –c′ — D - –f
Grade 3 a–d″ a–d″ G–c′ b - –e″ A - –d′ — C–f
Grade 4 g–e″ a–e″ G–d′ a–e″ G–d′ — C–g
Grade 5 f–f″ a - –f + ″ F + –e′ a - –f + ″ F + –e′ — B′–a
Grade 6 f–g″ g–g″ F–f′ g–g″ F–f′ D–c′ B - ′–b -
Grade 7 f–a - ″ g–a - ″ F–f + ′ g–a - ″ F–f + ′ C–d - ′ B - ′–b
Grade 8 e–a″ g–b - ″ F–a - ′ g–a + F–g + ′ B - ′–d′ B - ′–d - ′

† Ranges are presented using the Helmholtz system, i.e.:

w
w w w
&
? w w
w w
w w w
B′ C B c b c′ b′ c″ b″ c‴ b‴

28
Practical Grades  3. Brass Practical Grades Syllabus from 2023

Aural test requirements

Included in all Practical Music graded exams*
Listening lies at the heart of all good music-making. Developing aural awareness is fundamental
to musical training because having a ‘musical ear’ impacts on all aspects of musicianship.
Singing, both silently in the head and out loud, is one of the best ways to develop the ‘musical ear’.
It connects the internal imagining of sound, the ‘inner ear’, with the external creation of it, without
the necessity of mechanically having to ‘find the note’ on an instrument (important though that
connection is). By integrating aural activities in imaginative ways in the lesson, preparation for
the Aural tests within an exam will be a natural extension of what is already an essential part of
the learning experience.

In the exam
Aural tests are an integral part of all Practical Music graded exams.
The tests are given by the examiner from the piano. For any test that requires a sung response,
pitch rather than vocal quality is being assessed. The examiner will be happy to adapt to the vocal
range of the candidate, whose responses may be sung to any vowel (or consonant followed by a
vowel), hummed or whistled (and at a different octave, if appropriate).
The information on pages 161–167 sets out the tasks that candidates will be asked to com-
plete in the exam.

Assessment
Some tests allow for a second attempt or for an additional playing by the examiner, if necessary.
The examiner will also be ready to prompt, where helpful, although this may affect the assessment.
Marks are not awarded for each individual test or deducted for mistakes; instead they reflect the
candidate’s overall response in this component. The marking criteria for the Aural tests are given
on page 175.

Supporting publications
For practice purposes, sample Aural tests are published by ABRSM. Examples of the tests for
Grades Initial to 8 are given in Specimen Aural Tests. More examples for Grades 1 to 8 are given in
Aural Training in Practice. Purchasing these books is not a requirement.

Deaf or hearing-impaired candidates

Deaf or hearing-impaired candidates may choose alternative tests in place of the standard tests,
if requested at the time of booking the exam. Further information, including the syllabus for the
alternative tests, is available at www.abrsm.org/specificneeds.

* A different set of tests apply to Jazz and Singing for Musical Theatre exams 160
 3. Brass Practical Grades Syllabus from 2023 Practical Grades

INITIAL GRADE*
A To clap the pulse of a piece played by the examiner. The examiner will start playing the pas-
sage, and the candidate should join in as soon as possible, clapping in time.
B To clap as ‘echoes’ the rhythm of two phrases played by the examiner. The phrases will be
two bars long, in three or four time, and consist of a melody line only. The examiner will count
in two bars. After the examiner has played each phrase, the candidate should clap back the
rhythm as an ‘echo’ without a pause, keeping in time.
C To sing as ‘echoes’ two phrases played by the examiner. The phrases will be one bar long in
4/4 time. They will be in a major key, and within the range of tonic–mediant. First the examiner
will play the key-chord and the starting note (the tonic) and then count in two bars. After the
examiner has played each phrase, the candidate should sing back the echo without a pause,
keeping in time.
D To answer a question about one feature of a piece played by the examiner. Before playing,
the examiner will tell the candidate which feature the question will be about. It will be about
dynamics (loud/quiet) or articulation (smooth/detached).

GRADE 1
A To clap the pulse of a piece played by the examiner, and to identify whether it is in two time
or three time. The examiner will start playing the passage, and the candidate should join in as
soon as possible, clapping in time and giving a louder clap on the strong beats. The examiner
will then ask whether the music is in two time or three time. The candidate is not required to
state the time signature.
B To sing as ‘echoes’ three phrases played by the examiner. The phrases will be two bars long,
in a major key, and within the range of tonic–mediant. First the examiner will play the key-chord
and the starting note (the tonic) and then count in two bars. After the examiner has played
each phrase, the candidate should sing back the echo without a pause, keeping in time.
C To identify where a change in pitch occurs during a phrase played by the examiner. The
phrase will be two bars long, in a major key, and the change will affect only one of the notes.
First the examiner will play the key-chord and the tonic and then count in two bars. The
examiner will play the phrase twice, making the change in the second playing, after which
the candidate should state whether the change was near the beginning or near the end. If
necessary, the examiner will play both versions of the phrase again (although this may affect
the assessment).
D To answer questions about two features of a piece played by the examiner. Before playing,
the examiner will tell the candidate which two features the questions will be about. The first
will be: dynamics (loud/quiet, or sudden/gradual changes); the second will be articulation
(smooth/detached).

161 * Initial Grade not available for brass

Practical Grades  4. Assessment, marking & infringements

Marking criteria
Grades Pieces
Initial to 8 Pitch Time Tone Shape Performance

Distinction ● Highly accurate notes ● Fluent, with flexibility ● Well projected ● Expressive, idiomatic ● Assured
27–30 and intonation where appropriate ● Sensitive use of tonal musical shaping and ● Fully committed
● Rhythmic character qualities detail ● Vivid communication of
well conveyed character and style

Merit ● Largely accurate notes ● Sustained, effective ● Mainly controlled and ● Clear musical shaping, ● Positive
24–26 and intonation tempo consistent well-realised detail ● Carrying musical
● Good sense of rhythm ● Good tonal awareness conviction
● Character and style
communicated

Pass ● Generally correct notes ● Suitable tempo ● Generally reliable ● Some realisation of ● Generally secure, prompt
20–23 ● Sufficiently reliable ● Generally stable pulse ● Adequate tonal musical shape and/or recovery from slips
intonation to maintain ● Overall rhythmic awareness detail ● Some musical
tonality accuracy involvement

Below Pass ● Frequent note errors ● Unsuitable and/or ● Uneven and/or ● Musical shape and ● Insecure, inadequate
17–19 ● Insufficiently reliable uncontrolled tempo unreliable detail insufficiently recovery from slips
intonation to maintain ● Irregular pulse ● Inadequate tonal conveyed ● Insufficient musical
tonality ● Inaccurate rhythm awareness involvement

13–16 ● Largely inaccurate notes ● Erratic tempo and/or ● Serious lack of tonal ● Musical shape and ● Lacking continuity
and/or intonation pulse control detail largely unrealised ● No musical involvement

10–12 ● Highly inaccurate notes ● Incoherent tempo ● No tonal control ● No shape or detail ● Unable to continue for
and/or intonation and/or pulse more than a short section

0 ● No work offered ● No work offered ● No work offered ● No work offered ● No work offered

174
 4. Assessment, marking & infringements Practical Grades

Grades Scales and arpeggios Sight-reading Grades Aural tests

Initial to 8 Initial to 8

Distinction ● Highly accurate notes/pitch ● Fluent, rhythmically accurate Distinction ● Accurate throughout
19–21 ● Fluent and rhythmic ● Accurate notes/pitch/key 17–18 ● Musically perceptive
● Musically shaped ● Musical detail realised ● Confident response
● Confident response ● Confident presentation

Merit ● Largely accurate notes/pitch ● Adequate tempo, usually steady pulse Merit ● Strengths significantly
17–18 ● Mostly regular flow ● Mainly correct rhythm 15–16 outweigh weaknesses
● Mainly even tone ● Largely correct notes/pitch/key ● Musically aware
● Secure response ● Largely secure presentation ● Secure response

Pass ● Generally correct notes/pitch, despite errors ● Continuity generally maintained Pass ● Strengths just outweigh
14–16 ● Continuity generally maintained ● Note values mostly realised 12–14 weaknesses
● Generally reliable tone ● Pitch outlines in place, despite errors ● Cautious response
● Cautious response ● Cautious presentation

Below Pass ● Frequent errors in notes and/or pitch ● Lacking overall continuity Below Pass ● Weaknesses outweigh
11–13 ● Lacking continuity and/or some items incomplete ● Incorrect note values 9–11 strengths
● Unreliable tone ● Very approximate notes/pitch/key ● Uncertain response
● Uncertain response and/or some items not ● Insecure presentation
attempted

7–10 ● Very approximate notes and/or pitch ● No continuity or incomplete 6–8 ● Inaccuracy throughout
● Sporadic and/or frequently incomplete ● Note values unrealised ● Vague response
● Serious lack of tonal control ● Pitch outlines absent
● Very uncertain response and/or several items ● Very uncertain presentation
not attempted

0 ● No work offered ● No work offered 0 ● No work offered

175
 Exam programme & running order form

Exam programme & running order

Name
Subject Grade
Please write details of the items you are performing in your exam in the order you are presenting
them and hand this slip to the examiner. Best wishes for an enjoyable and successful exam!
Year of syllabus
List * Number Composer Title

Singers only: unaccompanied traditional song:

Percussion (Combined) only: technical requirements on:
* Leave blank for Snare Drum, Timpani and Tuned Percussion 09/19