ABRSM Diploma (US STUDENT)

[pooguy77]

Hi, I need help/info concerning the ABRSM Diploma.

I'm a university student (US), majoring is music business but I still take private lessons for piano (once was piano performance). However, I would like to try to get my piano performance DIPABRSM diploma.

The website offers info for international entries for the exams (level 1-8) but are not to clear concerning the US entries for the Diploma's. I know there are prerequisties in order to take the DIPA and confuse whether I can just take it based on performance history or do i have to take level 8. Also do I have to go to england to do my recital or go to one of these so call reps/centers in the US? Cost fees? I need help if someone has done this before.

[ako]

The pre-req for DipABRSM is Grade 8. You can try applying for the waiver if you have sufficient professional experience. Basically, you send in your transcripts, letter of reccommendation, program notes, newspaper clippings, what have you (check the list on the web site) to England for the waiver approval. After they have approved your waiver for Grade 8 as a pre-req. , you should contact your local rep. for application deadlines and fees. In the US, you can take the exams either in the Fall or the Spring. The application form is available online. You basically fill everything out and mail in your fee, application and the waiver letter. An exam date will be given to you and you go to one of the local music centers/schools to take the exam. You should ask your local rep. where the test center is. Don't forget the program notes and the viva voce (interview part) as well as sightreading. The whole exam will be audiotaped and the examiner will bring it back to England for committee review. You will know the result about 1-2 months afterwards. One reminder, you need to pass Grade 5 theory (maybe you can waive that too).