Opus 1 is proud to provide ABRSM’s Performance Grades to our students. This exam involves video recording a performance of four pieces and remotely submitting the unedited recording online for examiner feedback. Three of these pieces are from the ABRSM Syllabus, and the fourth is a choice piece that meets the necessary requirements. The recording is then submitted online to ABRSM for grading during an assigned submission period.
(Click here for information about dates and fees)
Please follow each of these four important steps required to participate and prepare for the exam.
STEP 1: Watch the Video Tutorial on Making Your Recording
Watch this video to learn directly from ABRSM everything you need to know to set up, prepare, and record your video for the exam. Missing steps could lead to disqualification so please make sure to watch and follow the guidelines.
STEP 2: Forms
A. Program Form
As of March 2023, students no longer need to prepare a printed program form and instead, ABRSM uses an online program submission. This means students will no longer need to write down the pieces on a sheet of paper and show it during the video. Instead, when submitting the recording, they'll also be asked to complete the online program form. At this time, you do not need to print or present this form in the video.
B. Student Identification
Students who are completing the following exams and grades will need to show the ID form. You can print this form using the “Print ID Form” button below. Click here for additional information from ABRSM regarding the “Candidate Identification Policy.”
Graded Examinations in Music Theory: Grades 5, 6, 7, 8
Graded Examinations in Music Performance: Grades 5 (Jazz only), 6, 7, 8
Graded Examinations in Practical Musicianship: Grades 5, 6, 7, 8
Diplomas: ARSM, DipABRSM, LRSM, FRSM
STEP 3: Record Your Video
Now that you have the information and forms you need, it’s time to make your recording. Your video resolution needs to be set at 720p and the video cannot be edited - videos are required to be one continuous recording. Watch the linked video to see an ABRSM example of an actual candidate recording. You can also click here to see full details on the recording requirements. Please note that candidates under the age of 18 must have a responsible adult present during the recording who will sign the declaration for Step 4.
STEP 4: Upload Your Video to ABRSM
Step 4 requires that you’ve created your Candidate Account through ABRSM. Once Opus 1 has booked your exam, you will receive an email directly from ABRSM about creating your account. If you did not receive it, please contact admin@musicopus1.com. ABRSM assigns a specific time period during which you can upload your video. You can record your video at any time but it must be uploaded during this time period. You’ll need to provide a declaration that the recording was made in alignment with ABRSM’s required policies. Students under 18 need to have the adult who was present during the recording submit this declaration.