Independent exam preparation · Free orientation
ABRSM Performance Grade Preparation: Programme and Video Plan
ABRSM Performance Grades use a video performance of four pieces. Preparing each work separately is only part of the task: beginnings, endings, pauses and recovery also shape the complete programme. Arco helps organize this work; it does not record your exam or submit a video to ABRSM.
Arco preparation range: Initial Grade–Grade 8. The package range is Arco’s current coverage, not the board’s complete qualification range.
Before you build a plan.
- Confirm the current own-choice, programme and accompaniment rules before selecting music.
- Write the running order and practise the gaps between works.
- Read ABRSM’s current candidate identification, video and submission guidance.
- Make a separate recording outside Arco and watch the complete exported file before uploading it to the board.
Original exercise · No account needed
Practise the joins, not just the pieces
- Write three transitions: the end of work one to the start of two, two to three, and three to four.
- For each join, play the final phrase, release the sound, reset silently and begin the next work at its intended pulse.
- Ask a listener whether the pause feels deliberate and whether the new tempo is clear.
Check your work
A useful transition preserves the previous ending while allowing a calm physical and musical reset. There is no universal correct pause length; obey current recording rules and the music’s character.
Arco wrote this supporting exercise. It is not a specimen board question, published syllabus requirement or official scoring rubric.
A common mistake
A clean isolated passage is not evidence that the entire programme is ready. Include complete runs, and review recovery as well as errors.
Choose the actual pathway, level and instrument.
Monthly prices for one selected package. Board entry fees are not included. These links preselect a package on the signup form; they do not purchase it. Existing members can manage packages in their account.
| Level | Monthly price | Select an instrument |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Grade | $25 | |
| Grade 1 | $25 | |
| Grade 2 | $25 | |
| Grade 3 | $25 | |
| Grade 4 | $25 | |
| Grade 5 | $25 | |
| Grade 6 | $25 | |
| Grade 7 | $25 | |
| Grade 8 | $25 |
What is included, and what is not
Arco is independent of the exam boards and institutions. Packages provide preparation planning, requirements links and weekly task tracking, not exam entry, teacher assessment, official papers or a guaranteed result. Only published original knowledge-support collections are scored in question sessions; no question bank is promised for other selections. Instrument learning is a separate $15/month package. Each selected package is billed separately; review its terms before purchasing.
Question-session answers can be scored against the published answer key. Arco does not assess your playing or certify practical readiness from these exercises.
Keep the official source beside the plan.
ABRSM: cello Practical and Performance Grades (opens in a new tab)
Checked 31 August 2026: Practical and Performance formats and current syllabus links. Check your own instrument’s specification, eligibility and recording guidance before booking.
Content updated . Requirements can change after this check. No protected repertoire lists or official exam questions are reproduced here.