I was thinking about getting the ABRSM pieces and CD for one of the jazz grades (for clarinet) but not sure which level to go for.
At the moment I'm playing some grade 4 classical pieces but have noticed that the jazz grades only go up to 5 whereas the others go up to 8. Does this mean the grading levels are different ? Can anyone advise me how they compare?
Thanks

I'm not a teacher and can't really advise you on what grade to start at with Jazz.

My daughter has taken both Jazz and classical grades and what I can say is the heads are generally slightly easier for wind instruments. I'm not sure this holds with Piano. These grades are though testing something different as all the pieces require improvisation. I suppose it depends on your improv skills as to where you start.

They are fun though and it's probably worth you having a look at the books in a music shop. You need to buy the book, CD backing and the scales/aural books.

Thanks NMM - I'll see if I can get a look at the books sometime. Sounds like it will be worth me looking at an easier grade to start off with though (after grade 3 it means buying the AB real book and CD separately which is about 48 pounds!).

In theory the grading levels are the same, and at one point there was the intention to continue the exams up to Grade 8. In practice, there is some admission that the jazz grades are harder, grade for grade.

I would start at Grade 3 or even 2 Jazz, depending on your confidence, your prior knowledge of jazz and your teacher's recommendation - if you have one.

I think that is very true of Piano.

I'm not so sure where they stand for winds in our experience they are just different. The heads are easier than pieces on the same classical grade but I suppose prior experience, ability tp read well, and improv confidently all plays a part in how people actually find them.

Thanks to you both.
I'll let you know what my teacher's view is - she plays in a jazz band occasionally so will definitely have a fair idea (I hope).

Fair point.

Having done Grade 4 jazz piano and grade 8 classical I would say that the head of the pieces are probably about like for like at each grade. However I personally found Grade 4 a challenge as I was not very used to the jazz style of playing. The exam itself however seemed a lot more laid back compared to the classical style. Hope this helps.