Hi there

Just wondering whether anyone's entered any students for the sax prep test?

I have some piano students going for it - but I can't locate a copy of the ABRSM book for the prep test to have a look at the pieces without ordering a copy.

I am thinking of starting to enter my sax students at a primary school for an exam but was thinking that next summer the prep test would be far better than grade 1 - as I doubt they would be ready by then.

What are the pieces like?

Rach x

I entered someone a few years ago, so the syllabus MAY have changed since then. He had to play 3 or 4 tunes off by heart, which can be challenging but usually they are keen to have a go. They involved slurring, staccato, etc. The set piece was a March, definitely easier than grade 1, used a range of about an octave I think. He also had to do an own choice piece and played "Be happy, be natural, be flat" from Saxophone Basics. There are aural tests too but they are quite easy - sing some notes in free time, clap back a simple rhythm and answer a question about a piece. It was a positive experience.

Sorry, I can't help with the saxophone prep test, but I've entered quite a few pupils for the recorder one. It's a very good introduction to exams, and they don't have to wait weeks for a certificate, they come out of the exam with it. The examiner writes positive comments, and perhaps one or two suggestions for further improvement on the certificate.

Your music shop should be able to order the book for you to have a look at before you commit yourself or any of your pupils.

Good luck with it!

Likewise... not sax...but have entered young pupils for singing prep test and it was really positive...Ithink the book with everything in was only £2.99....I assume it's all in one book for every instrument... oh and they could choose any other song to sing.

Thanks guys - I'd just rather have a look at the pieces in the book before ordering it. Depends how much of a leap it would be from that to grade 1. Most of my grade 1 saxophones have gone on to it no problem, but they are older than the ones who I think would go for a prep test...

Might have to go out for a trip to Chapels and see if I can take a quick peak there...

There is not a particularly big leap to Grade 1 - I only used it because I had a child who was progressing extremely slowly and was desperate to have something to show for it after 2 years and I felt he wasn't ready for Grade 1. This was about 3 years ago and I still teach him now - saw him at school today He is still going at his own slow pace, but absolutely loves it and it has given him confidence, that he can do something that his friends can't.