Grade 8 Piano Exam

All Piano Students

Grades 7 & 8 will include more LH arpeggios, often covering a 2 octave range, RH and LH chords in octaves, complex rhythmic patterns and significant melodic or pattern decoration/embellishment.

Structure A significant section of the song, or a solo improvisation section, is strongly encouraged. Players will not to be clones of others, but have their own sense of individuality, character and flair. Both choruses and verses need to be performed in each song and any middle 8s/bridges must also be included; multiple verses/choruses may be necessary to ensure that pieces stay within the grade duration length specified.

Style & Improvisation Candidates are encouraged to create their own introductions and endings as well as embellishing the piece in order to gain extra marks. They might consider improvising a section with their own interpretation. Restyling a piece is welcome, and at this grade playing a traditional pop song influenced by a Latin style such as Bossa Nova would be highly welcomed. The candidate might consider rhythm and bass riff patterns. An emerging personal style will begin to be communicated more fully to the audience. Occasional Latin licks may be introduced by the candidate as part of their stylisation.  Restyling a piece is might also include changing a traditional pop song into a blues fir example. The significant improvisation/embellishment of an entire section (instrumental, middle 8/bridge, verse or chorus) to create a “solo” section is strongly encouraged. A section with significant contrast is encouraged.

Significant improvised melodic or pattern decoration/embellishment is encouraged, or via a purchased score. Licks learned from other artists might be added by the candidate to their repertoire.

Dynamics Detailed dynamic detailing, including a good balance between RH and LH. A section with significant contrast is encouraged. 

Songs should be performed in their original keys.