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Harpsichord

About Harpsichord exams

We offer a range of assessments for harpsichord players including Practical Grades and diplomas in Music Performance for advanced musicians.   

Read on to find out more.  

Before the assessment
Harpsichord – Practical Grades

Practical Grades are face-to-face exams that focus on all-round musical knowledge and skills, including performance. Harpsichord exams are available at Grades 4 to 8. In the exam you perform three pieces, play scales and arpeggios and take tests in sight-reading and figured bass realisation and aural.  

Downloads

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

Harpsichord – 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. The syllabus, which you can download on this page, includes information about repertoire.

Exams are available at Grades 4 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 check 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 the Performance Grades qualification specification and Harpsichord Performance Grades syllabus, which includes the repertoire lists.

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