We are redeveloping our diplomas, creating new higher-level qualifications to replace our DipABRSM, LRSM and FRSM in Performance, Teaching and Directing. You can read about our new LRSM and FRSM diplomas in Music Performance here. To check deadlines for taking our current DipABRSM, LRSM and FRSM Performance diplomas, see our withdrawal information here.

Click here for the process for booking current DipABRSM, LRSM and FRSM diplomas. All supporting materials must be submitted electronically at the point of entry.

Music Performance

Performance-only diploma (ARSM)

Working towards an ARSM provides motivation, structure and feedback for developing musicians, and successful candidates can use the letters ARSM after their name.


Music Performance diplomas (DipABRSM, LRSM and FRSM)

The three levels of Music Performance diplomas are designed to reflect your day-to-day experience as a performer, whether amateur or professional.

The tasks include compiling a balanced recital programme and finding editions that best suit your interpretation, talking with confidence about the music, and putting on the best possible performance on the day.

As well as demonstrating your skills as a soloist, from LRSM level there's the opportunity for you to specialise as an orchestral player, chamber ensemble member or keyboard accompanist. There are also options at all three levels to perform on an instrument related to your main instrument for a part of your recital and to perform repertoire of your own choice.

Diploma resources

Piano Specimen Quick Studies

Piano Specimen Quick StudiesThis title contains valuable practice material for candidates preparing for the piano quick study in ABRSM diploma exams.

The specimen quick studies are suitable for ABRSM’s performance and teaching diplomas and are written in attractive and approachable styles that are representative of the technical level expected in the exam.


Music in Words

Music in WordsThis best selling guide has been extensively updated to remain relevant and invaluable to anyone, experienced or inexperienced, confronted by the task of writing about music - be it programme notes or thesis.

The Music in Words web resource contains additional material and links that support each of the eleven chapters in the book.

A Kindle version of the book is available to purchase from Amazon.

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