#Flute repertoire list update#

I have to say, I found the selection at Grade 1 somewhat uninspiring. I think it’s always hard to choose pieces when technical and musical skills might be considered limited. Of course, it used to be the case that there were no lower grades for flute, and in some ways, I can see why. Grade 1 is always tricky because you really want get candidates off to a good start. Whilst the focus is on the books of selected exam pieces, I have also, where I had the books available, selected from the alternative pieces too. In this review, I’m going to be considering the content of each grade individually, as well as selecting my top picks from each list. It is worth noting that pieces from the current 2018-21 syllabus can be used up until 31st December, 2022. These are further supported by the introduction of a range of digital downloads as well as the Woodwind Practice Partner App (Grades 1-5 only). The syllabus is supported by a range of publications including, as in previous years, flute exam pieces and flute exam packs (Grades 1-7 only). I hope that in time, ABRSM will replace the Prep Test with Initial Grade in a way which suits learners of all ages.

#Flute repertoire list update#

Unlike the recent changes to the ABRSM Piano Syllabus, no Initial Flute Grade has been introduced, and to my knowledge, there has been no update to the Prep Test. A duet option is offered at Grades 1 to 3.They are included across the lists, according to their musical characteristics, and candidates may choose to perform up to two of them Lists are now defined by musical characteristics, encouraging candidates to play a balanced selection of pieces and demonstrate a range of skills.The scale and sight-reading requirements remain unchanged, as do the aural tests however, ABRSM have made a number of changes to the way pieces are organised within the lists:

‘to celebrate the best work, old and new, from the four corners of the globe.’ ABRSM’s Chief Executive, Chris Cobb, sums up the syllabus’s aim, saying they have sought: In particular, ABRSM state they are seeking to widen the syllabus in a way which is no longer ‘constrained by a narrow, traditional curriculum’. ‘enriched woodwind syllabus designed to inspire the curiosity of learners and spark interest in music from all corners of the world and by people of all backgrounds’

I’m not sure of the reasoning behind this however, I wonder if this indicates a move away from the traditional syllabus format, perhaps to a continually refreshed online version, updated as needed? I would certainly welcome that option. 2022 sees the introduction of the latest syllabus, and it is worthy of note that this syllabus currently has no end date. Whilst the ABRSM Piano Syllabus changes on what feels like a fairly regular basis, we have to wait a little longer for a refreshed ABRSM Flute Syllabus.