Now I've got a date for my DipABRSM (17th December), so it all feels a lot closer (and a LOT scarier). I've looked all through the ABRSM's web site and can't find answers to a couple of questions:

1. Singers are reguired to provide a copy of all the words to their songs (with translations of those not in English). These don't count towards the word count of the programme notes. Should they be interspersed with the programme notes (so they appear by their relevant entry) or on separate sheets?

2. Is it customary to announce each number?

Any advice welcome!

I can only speak as a pianist who passed the dip in the summer. I did not announce my pieces as the order was clear from the front page of the programme notes. I did stop at first after my first piece while the generalist examiner was writing, and waited until he had finished - but I was told not to do this and to continue as if I was playing a professional recital.
I don't think you would be penalised for not announcing your programme as long as you have made the order clear on your programme. Don't forget that in addition to the actual notes themselves you must include a title page that has the diploma title, subject and date as well as a list of the works being performed in order.

I imagine that it would be most useful to the examiners (and imaginary audience) if the words and translations appeared next to the notes themselves for each song, as they can be referred to more easily during the marking. However, I would check carefully through the syllabus about this and ask for more advice if you're unsure.

Thanks for your quick reply. It just seems quite strange not announcing what you're about to perform - I do a fair number of concerts and I'm just used to it, I suppose.

Now the only thing I need to worry about is the absolutely stinking cold I've just come down with - just at the point where I really should have been building up the practice.