ABRSM Piano Syllabus 2027–2028: What Parents and Students Need to Know
The new ABRSM Piano Syllabus for 2027–2028 has now been released, bringing a refreshed selection of pieces for pianists from Initial Grade through to Grade 8. For many students, a new syllabus is an exciting opportunity to discover fresh repertoire, explore different musical styles, and choose pieces that suit their personality and strengths.
At Hampstead Music School, we support students through every stage of their ABRSM journey, from first beginner exams to higher grades. Here is a simple guide to what has changed and how to prepare.
What Is Changing?
The main change in the 2027–2028 syllabus is the repertoire. ABRSM has updated the piano piece lists with a mixture of new and retained pieces, including a broad range of styles, traditions and genres. The new syllabus is valid for exams from 1 January 2027 until 31 December 2028.
For Practical Grades, the supporting tests stay the same. This means the scales and arpeggios, sight-reading and aural test requirements remain unchanged from the previous syllabus.
Can Students Still Use the 2025–2026 Pieces?
Yes. There is an overlap period. Candidates may use pieces from the 2025–2026 Piano syllabus until 31 December 2027, but all pieces must be chosen from the same syllabus.
This is very useful for students who have already started preparing exam pieces. If your child has already learned most of their 2025–2026 pieces, they may not need to change immediately. Your teacher can advise whether it is better to continue with the current pieces or move to the new syllabus.
Practical Grade or Performance Grade?
ABRSM now offers two main piano exam routes: Practical Grades and Performance Grades.
In the Practical Grade exam, students perform three pieces and also complete scales and arpeggios, sight-reading and aural tests. This route gives a rounded assessment of technique, reading, listening and performance skills.
In the Performance Grade exam, students focus on performance only. Candidates present four pieces, with no supporting tests. ABRSM describes this as an alternative pathway for students who want to focus on showcasing their performance skills.
Both routes can be valuable. Some students enjoy the structure of Practical Grades, while others feel more confident preparing a recorded performance programme.
What Should Students Do Now?
If your child is currently preparing for an ABRSM piano exam, there is no need to panic. The best approach is to speak with your piano teacher and decide what suits the student’s current progress.
A student who is already close to exam standard may continue with the 2025–2026 syllabus. A student who is just starting a new grade may benefit from choosing pieces from the 2027–2028 syllabus, especially if they find the new repertoire more engaging.
Choosing the Right Pieces
Choosing exam pieces is not only about difficulty. A good programme should show different skills: clear rhythm, good tone, expressive playing and musical character. ABRSM’s lists are designed to include a balanced range of styles, with List A pieces generally focusing more on technical agility, List B pieces being more lyrical and expressive, and List C pieces covering a wide variety of musical traditions, styles and characters.
For younger students, it is especially important to choose pieces they genuinely enjoy. When a child connects with the music, practice becomes much more natural and motivated.
A Note for Higher Grade Students
Students preparing for Grades 6, 7 or 8 should remember that ABRSM requires a Grade 5 or above in Music Theory, Practical Musicianship, or a Practical Grades solo Jazz instrument before entering these higher grades.
This is a good reason to plan ahead. If a student is working towards Grade 5 piano, it may also be the right time to begin Grade 5 theory preparation.
How Hampstead Music School Can Help
At Hampstead Music School, our teachers help students choose suitable pieces, build a clear practice plan and prepare confidently for ABRSM exams. We also support students with scales, sight-reading, aural skills and music theory, so exam preparation feels structured rather than stressful.
The new 2027–2028 syllabus is a wonderful chance for students to explore fresh music and develop as expressive, confident pianists.
Whether your child is preparing for their very first Initial Grade or working towards the higher grades, careful planning and consistent practice will make the exam journey much more enjoyable.