Hi,
I've recently applied for university to do a degree but have recently realised theres only one university i want to go to, and ive been rejected. So to get a step up on the ladder for when i apply next year, i have decided to do a diploma.
Hooowever doing an abrsm diploma seems a bit lonely lol so can anyone think of anywhere i could apply to? I found this link on the internet but i cant help thinking its a bit dodgy, and alot dearer than the abrsm one too!

www.musicdiplomas.com

Any help will be appreciated sooooooooo much!!!!

Sarah x

Order yourself a copy of the new 2005 diploma syllabus. You can get a copy free from the ABRSM and it will give you information on what you need to prepare as well as repertoire lists. You will need to grade 8 before you can enter a diploma exam, and the standard is much higher than grade 8. good luck!

Hi Sarah
Any organisation which claims "your fees will be refunded if you do not pass" seems very dodgy to me. I would steer well clear. Trinity also run performance diplomas which could be worth a look. Maybe you could also think of attending some of the residential courses around to help in your playing For example Benslow (Hertfordshire) run some interesting courses for all levels and their are lots of others around the country. Entering for local festivals can also help focus your playing and in the adult classes you might meet others trying to do the same as you.

Please avoid cross posting the same question in multiple forums.. You have already asked this question in the Diplomas forum...

sorry just wanted to get opinions.

Hi I had a look at the diplomas web site, it seems a little off to me, their is no real assessment criteria, other than you give them £230, send a tape of you playing some perfomance peices, if they think your at the attaiment level (what ever that might be?) they give you a shiney Diploma that entitles you to place Dip.Mus after your name and a certifate to hang on your wall. Is this for real!!!! I've e-mailed them because this can't be for real.

it does seem a bit fake actually, on the testimonial bit, they can't even spell sydney - australia right

I'd look into taking diploma through someone accredited as opposed to online. my opinion only

These diplomas remind very much of the 'buy your degree/diploma' you see on ebay. You'd be better off concentrating on passing your grade 8 and studying either a A-level music type course or state recognised music diploma such as those offered by the Open University,BTEC,DipABRSM etc.......