ABRSM Grade 5 Snare Drum
General Info
- Candidates can complete an exam with playing with a snare drum only.
- All pieces and studies should be played with the snares on unless marked otherwise in the music.
- Candidates must choose three pieces from the repertoire list, including at least one piece marked with #.
- Up to two pieces by the same composer may be played.
- Candidates must play the upper part when pieces that are published as duets.
- Candidates must provide their own accompanist(s).
- Pieces accompanied by percussion must be played on a separate instrument from the candidates'.
Song List
Technical Requirements
Studies are important way to develop technical skills such as stick control, balance between hands, fluency and articulation. They also help to develop tone, pulse and dynamic control, and familiarity with rudimental patterns. This leads to greater confidence and security when sight-reading, learning new pieces and performing - from a score or from memory, as a solo musician or with others.
About the test: Candidates prepare two studies at each grade and examiners will request which one is to be played in the exam. Each Study is based on a set of rudiments; these are listed on the sheet music.
Instrument: The test must be played with the snares on
Publications: Percussion Exam Pieces & Studies, ABRSM Grade 2
Content: Study A & Study B
Memory: There is no requirement to play the Study from memory.
Sticking: Candidates may use any sticking that produces a successful musical outcome.
Demonstration Video:
Sight Reading
Sight-reading is a valuable skill with many benefits. Learning to sight-read helps to develop quick recognition of common rhythm patterns and tonality. Strong Sight-reading skills make learning new pieces quicker and easier, and also help when making music with others, so that playing in an ensemble becomes more rewarding and enjoyable.
About the Test
Candidates will be asked to play a short unaccompanied piece of music which they have not seen before. They will be giving half a minute to look through and, if they wish, try out all or any part of the test before they are asked to play it for assessment.
Supporting Publications
For practice purposes, sample Sight-reading tests are published by Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music in Percussion Sight-Reading Grades 1-5. Purchasing the book is not a requirement.