does one have to include information about themselves and their pianist?
my friend got penalised for not included this information...but it doesnt specify for this on the abrsm thing

thanks
thomasine

No, it states that you are not supposed to put personal information on the programme notes for the Diplomas.

http://www.abrsm.org/resources/writingProgNotesApr05.pdf

In concerts then yes, the audience would expect to read about the performers.

i dont understand why my friend got penalised then...
seems a bit harsh!

It does say you may include biographical info about the performers, but this is not a requirement. The candidate's name must not be used. This is in the extra booklet by Nigel Scaife that can be downloaded from the diplomas section of the website.

Oh. found that bit now. Your firend should not have lots any marks for not including this big. Perhaps it was just a general comment?