New requirements for Bowed Strings
Introduction | Set pieces | Sight-reading | Scales | Publications
2012–2015
We have published a new Bowed Strings syllabus containing new set pieces for Violin candidates and revised scale and sight-reading requirements for all bowed string instruments.
This guide offers a brief introduction to the changes we’ve made and the support materials available.
- New set pieces for Violin
- New sight-reading requirements: Violin, Viola, Cello and Double Bass
- New scale requirements: Violin, Viola, Cello and Double Bass
- New publications
Browse the new syllabus
Select the cover image below to view the syllabus booklet in full-screen mode.
Download the new syllabus
 Bowed StringsSyllabus Requirements 2012 | Scale Patterns from 2012 | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
  Violin | 2012 - 2015 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | Complete syllabus |
| Viola | 2012 - 2015* | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | Complete syllabus |
| Cello | 2012 - 2015* | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | Complete syllabus |
| Double Bass | from 2012* | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | Complete syllabus |
*The set pieces for viola, cello and double bass have not changed for 2012 exams (they are valid until 2015 for viola and cello, and until further notice for double bass). However, there are revised scale and sight-reading requirements for all bowed strings from 2012.
Listen to our Bowed Strings podcast
In this edition our regular presenter, BBC Radio Three’s Sarah Walker, introduces musical extracts from the new Violin syllabus.
Sarah also delves into the new Bowed Strings scales and sight-reading requirements with ABRSM Syllabus Director Nigel Scaife and Jessica O’Leary, violinist, examiner and ABRSM conference presenter.
Read our supporting booklet
Select the cover image below to view the booklet in full-screen mode.
Introduction | Set pieces | Sight-reading | Scales | Publications