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Harp (Pedal)

About exams for Pedal Harp

We offer a range of assessments for pedal harp players including Practical and Performance Grades up to Grade 8 and Performance diplomas for advanced musicians.  

New Harp syllabuses coming soon

In January 2025 we’re publishing new Harp syllabuses for Practical and Performance Grades, and the ARSM Performance diploma. These will feature revised repertoire lists with a mix of new pieces alongside pieces from the current syllabus. For Practical Grades we’re also revising the sight-reading and scale requirements. We're publishing supporting books for these in January 2025.  

The new syllabuses will be valid in exams from 1 June 2025 onwards. Candidates can continue to use the current syllabuses in exams until 31 December 2025. 

harp
Harp (Pedal) – Practical Grades

Practical Grades are face-to-face exams that focus on all-round musical knowledge and skills, including performance. Exams are available at Grades 1 to 8. In the exam you perform three pieces, play scales and arpeggios and take sight-singing and aural tests.  

Downloads

Download a PDF of the full Pedal Harp Practical Grades qualification specification. This includes the syllabus and marking criteria as well as detailed information about exam requirements.

Harp (Pedal) – Performance Grades

Performance Grades are digital exams assessed from a video recording. They have a strong focus on performance, including communication, interpretation and delivery. In the exam you perform a programme of four pieces.  

Exams are available at Grades 1 to 8. There are no booking periods or exam sessions so you can choose when to book, record and submit your exam.  

As well as reading the qualification specification and syllabus for your instrument, you should read our Performance Grade guidance which includes important information about recording and submitting your exam video. Follow the link below to find out more. 

Downloads

Download PDFs of the Performance Grades Qualification Specification and Harp syllabus.

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