When preparing for diploma piano exams in Singapore—whether ABRSM’s ARSM, Trinity ATCL, or LCME DipLCM under University of West London—students often ask about the possibility of choosing an own choice piece. These self-selected works must be of equivalent or higher standard than the listed repertoire, and for ARSM, the performance time must stay within 28–32 minutes, with each own choice piece not exceeding 10 minutes.
But here’s the tricky part: examiner expectations differ across exam boards. From our experience, ARSM and Trinity diploma examiners set higher interpretive and technical demands. For example, even if Beethoven’s Sonata indicates ?=120 and the student performs exactly at that tempo, the examiner may still write “too slow” and expect a speed closer to professional concert standards. The examiners rarely give concrete reasoning, leaving candidates puzzled.
One possible explanation is that ABRSM and Trinity examiners benchmark performances against international concert platforms, where expectations of drive, fluency, and stamina are uncompromising. In contrast, LCME examiners tend to reward faithfully following the score markings, offering fairer recognition if candidates observe tempo, dynamics, and articulation precisely.
So, how can candidates stand out? One strategy is to explore rare repertoire—pieces less frequently chosen in exams, yet rich in character and musical depth. These works not only impress examiners but also allow pianists to showcase individuality.
? Granados – Goyescas Nos. 1–6
The Goyescas suite by Enrique Granados is inspired by the Spanish painter Francisco Goya’s portraits. Each piece is a musical painting—passionate, exotic, and full of Spanish rhythmic vitality.
- Why choose it? Rarely attempted in exams, the suite is overflowing with rich harmonies and ornaments, making it a showpiece of color and drama.
- Interesting fact: Granados later transformed Goyescas into an opera, but the piano originals remain some of the most virtuosic and atmospheric Spanish works ever written.
? Muczynski – Toccata Op. 15
Robert Muczynski’s Toccata is a 20th-century whirlwind, full of driving rhythms and relentless energy.
- Why it’s fascinating: It fuses modern harmonic language with motoric drive, creating both excitement and controlled chaos.
- Exam value: Perfect for candidates wanting to demonstrate finger strength, stamina, and the ability to control speed without losing precision.
- Fun fact: Despite being modern, it remains audience-friendly, earning cheers whenever performed in recitals.
? Schumann – Drei Fantasiestücke Op. 111
Written in the final years of Robert Schumann’s life, this set of three fantasy pieces reflects his fragile mental state and turbulent emotions.
- Historical connection: Schumann was already battling severe psychological struggles. The music bursts with restless energy, sudden contrasts, and dark undertones, almost foreshadowing his tragic collapse.
- Why it feels so fast: The obsessive rhythmic drive mirrors his agitation, giving the music a manic urgency.
- Why it’s powerful for exams: It shows a candidate’s ability to interpret psychological depth—playing not just notes, but mind states. Examiners appreciate performances that dive beyond surface brilliance.
? Why Rare Repertoire Matters
Choosing rare repertoire shows initiative, curiosity, and individuality. Instead of playing the same Beethoven Sonatas or Chopin Ballades every examiner hears dozens of times, a Granados, Muczynski, or Schumann rarity will make your performance memorable.
At the diploma level, success is not just about accuracy—it’s about artistry, stamina, and making a compelling case for the music.
? Start Your Diploma Journey with Expert Guidance
At WowPianoWow, I specialize in preparing candidates for ARSM, Trinity ATCL, and DipLCM diploma piano exams in Singapore. My students learn with short-cut methods, professional interpretive guidance, and carefully tailored repertoire advice.
If you’re ready to explore both standard and rare repertoire while building exam-ready technique, book a trial lesson today.
? WhatsApp me at 98256286 or visit www.wowpianowow.com
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