Sara-Lois Cunningham shares advice for singers entering ABRSM’s digital exams, assessed from video recordings submitted by candidates
ABRSM

Create a varied recital. Ensure there is a variety of genre, mood and keys in your programme, and look for contrast. If you have two lively songs, place them away from each other. The timings need to be checked as part of the selection process, and triple-check the own-choice piece, which has a set minimum duration.

Practise performing. The performance element naturally comes into ultra-sharp focus in performance exams, carrying a whopping 30 marks. Enter a candidate for this exam only when you are certain they really can perform. Don't wait until the actual recording before considering performance techniques. Preparation is key to achieving high marks, so record the student in lessons in order for them to check how they look and sound when singing. Encourage them to watch professional singers to see how they do it. Bryn Terfel is one example of a singer renowned for his performance skills.

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