Many students nowadays take diploma exams. These exams present challenges above and beyond those for Grade 8. In particular, ABRSM diploma exams have a few components that are not featured in graded exams, and are often the stumbling blocks for candidates.
1) Programme Notes
This is required for all diploma exams, including the ones run by Trinity (ATCL, LTCL, FTCL). To succeed, candidates must do research and become familiar with the pieces on the programme, the background of composition as well as the form and structure of the pieces. Candidates are expected to write in a clear and fluent manner, with the ideas/facts presented in a logical way. Plagiarism (copying someone’s work) is illegal, but it is a crime that is often committed. Fortunately, with a good teacher, candidates actually do not need to resort to plagiarism.
2) Viva Voce
This is only required in ABRSM diploma exams (DipABRSM, LRSM, FRSM). Candidates are required to communicate verbally with the examiner(s) to discuss matters related to the chosen programme and the instrument in general. This is much trickier than preparing the programme notes. There are always questions from the examiner(s) that you are not prepared for. For those who are less well-versed in English, the examination authority provides an option for using their translation service at the exam. It must be specified (and paid for) when the exam entry is made.
3) Quick Study
Another test that many candidates struggle with. Unlike the sightreading test for graded exam, candidates are given 5 minutes to prepare for the piece, but then the piece is much longer and much more difficult, and a convincing performance is expected.
These components indeed present daunting challenges for candidates. I have coached many candidates in the preparation of these tests. Please feel free to contact me if you need help with these.