If you’re a pianist in Singapore aspiring to take your musical journey to the next level and earn a prestigious diploma in piano, you have a plethora of options to choose from. In this article, we’ll explore the three most popular piano diploma exams in Singapore offered by renowned examination boards and provide insights into the different levels and their equivalency to university music degrees. Additionally, we’ll outline the specific requirements and marking criteria for each exam.
ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music) Piano Diploma
Levels: ABRSM offers three diploma levels: ARSM (Associate of the Royal Schools of Music), LRSM (Licentiate of the Royal Schools of Music), and FRSM (Fellowship of the Royal Schools of Music).
Equivalency: These diploma levels are equivalent to university degrees, with ARSM equating to an undergraduate level, LRSM comparable to a bachelor’s degree, and FRSM representing a master’s or doctoral level of expertise.
Requirements: ARSM, in its updated format, requires candidates to submit a recording of a 30-minute program of pieces without any written submission, sight-reading, or viva voce. The performance is assessed based on musical communication, interpretation, and technical delivery.
Examination Format: The examination can be taken either by digital recording submission or face-to-face physical exam.
Trinity College London Piano Diploma
Levels: Trinity offers three piano diploma levels: ATCL (Associate of Trinity College London), LTCL (Licentiate of Trinity College London), and FTCL (Fellowship of Trinity College London).
Equivalency: These levels correspond to university degrees, with ATCL akin to an undergraduate degree, LTCL comparable to a bachelor’s degree, and FTCL representing a master’s or doctoral level.
Requirements: The specific requirements for Trinity diploma levels may vary. Generally, they include performing a program of pieces, with higher levels demanding more extensive recitals and research projects.
Examination Format: Trinity exams are available both through digital recording submission and face-to-face examinations.
London College of Music (LCM) Piano Diploma
Levels: LCM, issued by the University of West London, offers four piano diploma levels: DipLCM, ALCM, LLCM, and FLCM.
This exam board is the most popular among diploma candidates in Singapore, because this certificate is issued under University of West London and the candidates stand a chance to use the credits from these diploma certificate to pursue music degree courses with University of West London.
Equivalency: These levels align with university degrees, with DipLCM comparable to an undergraduate degree, ALCM similar to a bachelor’s degree, LLCM equivalent to a master’s degree, and FLCM representing a doctoral level.
Requirements: LCM diploma exams may vary, but generally, they include performing a set program of pieces and, at higher levels, research and written submissions.
Examination Format: LCM piano diploma exams can be taken through digital recording submission or face-to-face examinations.
Each of these piano diploma exams has its unique marking criteria, which focus on the candidate’s ability to interpret, perform, and communicate the music effectively. These exams offer a path to higher education and open doors to various opportunities in the music industry. Whether you choose ABRSM, Trinity, or LCM, the pursuit of a piano diploma is a significant milestone in your musical career that showcases your dedication and talent as a pianist. Good luck on your musical journey to excellence!
