Does anyone know just how strict the examiners are with regards to timing of the ltcl programme? Im finally really happy with my programme but have realised it falls about 2- 3 mins short of the stipulated time. The syllabus mentions " a mark reduction" meaning 1 mark or an indefinite amount of marks? Should I just do the repeats in the les adieux sonata or perhaps drag the slow movt a bit just to make up time?
My programme is Bach toccata in G ~ 8.5 mins
Beethoven les adieux ~ 16.0
Chopin ballade 2 ~ 7.5
Scriabin etude 8/12 ~ 3 .0
total 35 mins
What happens if i manage to get the toccata and etude a bit faster?

If I were in your position I would add an additional piece. You have 37 - 43 minutes allocated and being able to put together a programme within a specified time is an important component of this performing exam. The ATCL is 32 - 38 minutes so it looks like the LTCL should have a longer programme. It would be a shame to try and alter tempo of your pieces to make up the time or add superfluous repeats. Having said that I have no idea how many marks might be deducted. I do know all the diplomas are carefully moderated and I imagine the issue of timing is looked at carefully. Good luck

Before you make any changes have you played the programme as a set, if so how much short are you then, the time requirements also encludes time in between pieces for a swig of water and to adjust your mindset for the next piece.

Hmm, not sure about that Digby. The syllabus states:

Duration of pieces refers to the time taken in the exam to play all of the pieces on the programme, and does not include time taken arriving and departing, setting up, tuning/adjusting instruments or pausing/breaking between items or movements.

yep you're right my mistake sorry

You are thinking of the older syllabus which did include breaks in the recital duration...

Thank you it's not often I get things like that wrong