Hello All.

I have read in this forum before that there are certain quick study aids which might be of use. Unfortunately I am not able to recall and find the link.

I would really appreciate help. I vaguely remember that it is published as "spectrum.... " I am not sure if it is the publisher name or title. Could anyone help me with the title and publisher?
i would appreciate it very much.. : )

I think they are just called Spectrum 1, 2, 3 etc by Thaila Myers.

thanks!

But do you have the complete title and publisher? And is it specifically for piano or what instrument? (Coz i play the piano.. : ) )
And I don't live in the UK. Are there any online shops which carry them?

Thanks for the reply!

The complete title is Spectrum and then the number

and I think it is published by the Associated Board

Hi music enthusiast
I didn't find the sightreading for the diplomas particularly similar to pieces in any of the Spectrum books. I would have said they were more like pieces in AB Romantic pieces for piano and More romantic pieces for piano grade 7. I would suggest you get sightreading practice in all styles, baroque, classical, romantic and the more modern, jazzy idioms. Changes of time and key signatures are popular. Hope this helps a little.

I understand. Many thanks Margaret. I am concerned about the quick study section actually, ie as to whether or not they put strong emphasis on 20th century/atonal works. I think 20th century works are a major stumbling block for me, especially if i were to play it on the spot with only five minutes of preparation, in spite of the fact that I actually live in the 20th century! : ) And many thanks saxlover for the info! I will look up the publications.

Actually we all live in the 21st century. Time flies! So maybe 20th century music is no longer regarded as so modern. None of my sightreading pieces were atonal. Actually they were rather lovely and much more musical than the horrible Associated Board graded sightreading books out there. Good luck

I'm sure I remember reading something that said that although the quick study pieces were especially commissioned, they may be pastiches.

It might be worth getting hold of an old Grade 6 book to use for DipABRSM quick study practice, as this is apparently the standard of pieces used.

Yeah Deborah, it says that in the Diploma syllabus thing. The tests are composed in a modern style but some might be pastiches.

The advantage of the Spectrum books is that it's reading outside of your normal comfort zone - they're good for odd time and key signatures, and changes in time/key signature.
The pieces I had for my Dip exams were perfectly pleasant - nothing as 'scary' as some of the Spectrum stuff.

I understand.
Thank you all very much for your helpful replies.

Then it just remains to say all the best with your exam prep!!

Hope you find the other posts on the forum useful, though I guess we're now waiting on the first batches of people to come through using the new 2005 syllabus to see if there's any important we've missed!