Hi,

I was looking over the DipABRSM and ATCL syllabuses, and noticed that I'm already playing/have previously played a few pieces from each:
AB: Two of the Bach partitas, Spring Sonata, the Smetana and parts of Mozart 5 (down as LRSM).
ATCL: Praeludium & Allegro, the same Mozart and Vivaldi's Autumn.
Basically, I have a few questions coming from my strange position...I obviously don't know anything about Dips since I've just taken my grade 8 (although I should have done it a while back).

1) For AB, does the Viva require loads of knowledge? Can I find sample questions anywhere?
2) Is one of the boards seen as "better" or easier than the other for Diplomas?
3) Are there any technical requirements like with the regular grades? (I would prefer a board with more prepared performing/theory/history and less sight-reading!)
4) What is the minimum age required/suggested for Diplomas? (I'm almost 16)
5) Are there any different types of Diploma under Trinity? I have some kind of idea that there are 2 performing kind of Diplomas...maybe?

Thanks in advance for any coments!

Hi Bohemian

I don't think there's an "easier" diploma. All require a similar level of ability and achievement. But you can choose one that plays to your strengths.

For example, DipABRSM has the Viva and quick study (which is tougher than sight reading, I gather), ATCL (Performance) has technical work and aural awareness tests and ATCL (Recital) - which is what I did - does exactly what it says on the tin....it's a recital.

As far as Vivas go - there are threads a few months back on this board where people compared the questions they'd had and thought up some practise questions.

Age limits - I think the teaching diplomas are the only ones with age limits. Performance/Recital ones don't.

Hope this helps. Have a look at the Trinity website to get more of an idea of what they do, and, of course, the DipABRSM syllabus here. And feel free to ask if you've got a query.

Cheers

Katyjay