A Parent’s Guide to the ABRSM Initial Grade Exam: The Step Before Grade 1
If your child is starting music lessons, you’ve likely heard of the ABRSM Grade 1 to 8 exams but may not know about the Initial Grade. It’s a beginner-level exam for select group of instruments and singing, and this guide explains what it involves, why it’s useful, and how you can help your child prepare.
What is the ABRSM Initial Grade?
The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM) is known for its Grade 1 to 8 exams, which track musical progress. The Initial Grade is an entry-level exam for beginners who’ve been learning for about 6–12 months. It’s a “pre-Grade 1” exam, designed to introduce young learners (often 5 and up, no age limit) to exams in a low-pressure way.
Unlike Grades 1–8, the Initial Grade is only available for specific instruments—piano, violin, viola, cello, double bass, guitar, and singing (based on the 2025–2026 syllabus). It’s not offered for instruments like flute, clarinet, trumpet, or percussion. If your child plays one of the eligible instruments or sings, it’s a practical first step to build skills and confidence before Grade 1.
Why Take the Initial Grade?
The Initial Grade is a gentle way for beginners to try an exam. Here’s what it offers:
Builds Confidence: Performing for an examiner and earning a certificate is a big deal for a beginner.
Provides a Goal: It gives practice a clear purpose, keeping your child engaged.
Teaches Basics: It covers simple techniques and music reading, preparing them for Grade 1.
Encourages Commitment: Regular practice builds focus and discipline.
Marks Early Progress: It recognizes their efforts after just a few months.
What’s in the Exam?
The exam lasts about 10–12 minutes at a local music center or school, with a trained examiner who creates a supportive setting. It has four parts, totaling 150 marks:
Three Pieces (60 marks)
Your child performs three short pieces from the ABRSM syllabus. These are simple—like a basic tune, a slow melody, or a piece with easy chords—chosen to show different skills and let your child play or sing comfortably.Scales and Arpeggios (21 marks)
This tests basic technique. Your child plays a few short scales (up and down a few notes) and perhaps a broken chord, showing smooth finger or voice movement.Sight-Reading (21 marks)
The examiner provides a brief, new piece of music for your child to play or sing after a quick look. It’s a simple check of reading basic notes.Aural Tests (18 marks)
These are listening tasks, like clapping a rhythm the examiner plays, identifying if two notes are the same or different, or describing a tune’s mood (e.g., fast or calm). They develop musical listening skills.
Your child needs 100 marks to pass, 120 for a Merit, or 130 for a Distinction. The focus is on progress, not perfection, making it ideal for beginners.
How’s It Different from Grade 1?
If you know Grade 1, the Initial Grade is:
Simpler: Pieces are shorter and easier; scales are fewer and basic.
Less Complex: Sight-reading and aural tests are more straightforward.
Shorter: About 3–5 minutes quicker, with less intensity.
Introductory: A first exam to ease into Grade 1 later.
It’s a foundation that makes Grade 1 more approachable.
How Can You Help Your Child?
You don’t need musical skills to support your child. Here’s how to assist:
Encourage Short Practice
Beginners need 10–15 minutes daily. Set up a quiet space and make practice routine, like after homework. Note small steps, like, “That section sounded stronger today.”Work with Their Teacher
Your child’s music teacher will choose pieces and teach exam requirements. Ask how your child’s progressing and what to practice at home. If they don’t have a teacher, find one familiar with ABRSM exams for piano, strings, guitar, or singing.Keep It Positive
Present the exam as a chance to share their music, not a high-stakes test. Say, “You’ll show the examiner what you’ve learned.” Focus on effort, not results.Prepare for Exam Day
Logistics: Confirm the date, time, and venue (from ABRSM or your teacher). Arrive early to stay calm.
Bring: Your child needs their instrument (e.g., violin or guitar; pianos are provided), music books, and any extras like a music stand for strings.
Clothes: No dress code—just neat, comfortable outfits.
Nerves: Remind them the examiner is supportive. A quick, “Play like you do at home,” helps.
Use Resources
Check www.abrsm.org for the 2025–2026 syllabus, listing pieces and requirements for piano, strings, guitar, or singing. Find recordings of pieces or sample aural tests online (ABRSM’s app or YouTube). Your teacher can recommend materials.