For piano students and parents, one of the most common questions today is whether to pursue ABRSM Performance Grades or the more traditional Practical Grades. Both pathways offer valuable benchmarks, but the right choice depends on the student’s personality, progress, and motivation. Let’s look at the key factors that can guide this decision.
Main Differences between Practical and Performance Grade Exam
ABRSM Practical Grade
- Face to face exam
- Fixed exam date
- Scales, sight-reading and aural tested along with 3 exam pieces
ABRSM Performance Grade
- Record anytime and submit digitally
- 4 exam pieces with no scales, sight-reading or aural
Level of Interest and Commitment
Performance Grades often appeal to students who love playing music as a whole and enjoy presenting a polished program. Practical Grades, on the other hand, require consistent commitment to technical work and supporting tests. A student who thrives on performance may find the former more motivating, while one who is disciplined and detail-oriented may benefit from the rigor of the latter.
Age and Exam Readiness
Younger students may not yet be ready for the demands of Practical Grades, which include sight reading, scales, and aural tests. Performance Grades can provide a gentler introduction to exams, focusing on musicality and presentation. Older students, or those with more developed skills, may be better prepared to tackle the full scope of Practical Grades.
Rate of Progress in Supporting Tests
Sight reading and aural skills often progress at a slower rate than playing ability. If a student’s supporting skills lag behind, Performance Grades can allow them to demonstrate their musical strengths without being held back. Conversely, if a student is progressing steadily in these areas, Practical Grades can reinforce and reward that growth.
Interest in Supporting Tests
Some students genuinely enjoy scales, sight reading, and the intellectual challenge of supporting tests. For them, Practical Grades provide a satisfying structure. Others may find these elements discouraging or tedious, in which case Performance Grades can keep their enthusiasm alive while still offering a formal benchmark.
Exam Savviness and Personality
Competitive, exam-savvy students often thrive under the challenge of Practical Grades, where every skill is tested. Less competitive students, or those who feel overwhelmed by exams, may prefer the Performance Grade route, which emphasizes artistry over technical drills.
Motivation and Emotional Impact
Exams are meant to motivate, not demoralize. For some students, achieving a strong result in either exam can be a huge confidence boost. But if a student risks being discouraged by a weaker Practical Grade result, Performance Grades may provide a safer, more encouraging path. The key is to choose the exam that will inspire continued growth rather than hinder it.
Conclusion
Although Practical Grades are often thought to be more highly regarded – especially by those who “grew up” with them before COVID – they are not automatically the best choice for every student. Just as choosing the most prestigious primary school may not suit every child, opting for the more rigorous exam may not fit every learner. The true purpose of exams is to motivate students to reach higher levels, and different students need different benchmarks to stay inspired. Whether through the structured challenge of Practical Grades or the expressive focus of Performance Grades, the goal remains the same: nurturing a lifelong love for music and steady progress on the piano.
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Like this article? Check out my article on How to get a distinction for ABRSM performance grade exams.
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