ABRSM trombone grades explained

The system

ABRSM runs graded exams from Initial through Grade 8, each with three prepared pieces, scales and arpeggios, sight-reading, and aural tests. Trinity offers an equivalent ladder with slightly different repertoire. Neither is compulsory; they are milestones, not the point of playing.

Rough milestones

• Initial to Grade 1: about a year of playing. Simple tunes, limited range.
• Grades 2 to 3: the full beginner range, basic legato, more reading fluency.
• Grades 4 to 5: a competent band player. Grade 5 theory (or a jazz/practical alternative) is required before Grade 6 practical.
• Grades 6 to 8: serious repertoire and serious practice. Grade 8 carries UCAS points and is the usual gateway to conservatoire auditions.

A motivated student moves up roughly one grade a year; skipping grades is normal and often sensible. I enter students when they are ready to do well, not just to pass.

How I prepare students

Repertoire chosen to suit the player, scales built into warm-ups months ahead, weekly sight-reading from the first lesson, and at least one full mock exam. Exam nerves shrink when nothing in the room is a surprise.