OK, so I've just got a distinction Grade 8 piano, and although I probably won't be starting any serious diploma stuff until at least September, I'd like to know which is the most suitable for me to take, given that I am taking Grade 8 on 2 other instruments, and grade 8 practical musicianship... I prefer performing to anything else, and I'm tempted to stay with the AB and do DipABRSM, but would this be beneficial to my love of performing?? I'm not really clued up.. any replies would be helpful.

Thanks!

Well it's beneficial to the point that

i. You learn some cool repertoire
ii. You get to perform it

Are you happy with the Dip's requirements of programme notes, quick study and viva? If not, you might consider ATCL Recital which forgoes the nasties and leaves you with a nice prog length and just a few prog notes.

Why not do both? Double the fun!

I think it's good you're not going straight on into the diploma stuff - have a few 'months off' playing things that aren't technically scary just to enjoy!

Then, yes, I'd go for DipABRSM.

This is the man who keeps Diploma Addicts Anonymous in business...

Those who can, do, darling...

Those who can't be bothered, don't...

Those who are scared, avoid..

Those who push their luck, get a slap...

Those who like these sort of little quotes, quote



[ducks and runs away]

After mulling this over, I came to the conclusion that "The Best Diploma To Take..." is "The One That You Can Pass".. Best of luck! *peace*

I think FRSM would be the best to take!

Apart from all of those pesky pre-requisites

Choddy, don't be in a rush to do a diploma. Grade 8 distinction is fantastic, but if you look around the diplomas board you'll see it's littered with people who've underestimated the leap between Grade 8 and DipABRSM. That said, if you and your teacher think you're capable of passing, go for it - and as mrbouffant said, the best diploma for you is the one you can pass!

Have you considered the Trinity Guildhall Performers' Certificate as a stepping stone between Grade 8 and a diploma?

If you're ready and raring to go for those post-nominals, have a look at the different syllabi, not only to identify the exam which you can pass, but the one where you feel you'll enjoy the journey too. If you don't want the hassle of preparing for supporting tests, then consider ATCL; if you want the challenge of quick study, programme notes and viva, then look at the DipABRSM.

Let us know what you decide

Why take a diploma at all? Its REALLY EXPENSIVE, and just adds to more stress of exams. I havent bothered with a diploma, which i could have but instead have got to go through LOTS of new repetoire off the diploma lists rather than working furiously at a select few for the recital.

The simple answer is that a diploma gives one credibility without having to hear one play. The whole concept of a diploma is that it's a certification that a trained examiner representing a hopefully decent exam board thinks that one's performance is of a 'professional' standard, i.e. one wouldn't be ripping people off to charge them a few pounds to listen to it.

For instance, you haven't bothered with a diploma and claim to have done lots of pieces from the syllabuses. That's all well and good, and if that's what you want to do, fine . The crux of it is though, I haven't heard you play, and without a diploma I don't know if you're either someone good enough to get one or someone who's just playing lots of pieces which are too hard for them, and isn't taking the exam because they aren't good enough.

I guess that is true.... The diploma does gives you the credibility of being a good performer.

In my defence Im not taking the diploma because i cant afford it....I'm just about being able to afford lessons on top of all the other costs of being a student. Rather than having a diploma i just have my musical CV including the many competitions I have won, masterclasses with top flute players from across the world and soloist appearances in concertos.