How to Prepare for Your ABRSM Online Exam 🎶💻
Published on December 14, 2025
Taking your ABRSM exam online can feel a little scary at first—but with the right preparation, you can do it confidently and successfully. Whether this is your first online exam or not, these simple tips will help you feel ready on exam day.
🎹 1. Understand the Online Exam Format
ABRSM online performance exams are recorded and submitted, not done live. This means you can record at home, you must play all pieces in one continuous video, and no editing is allowed. Make sure you carefully read ABRSM’s official guidelines before recording.
🎼 2. Know Your Pieces Well
Choose pieces that suit your level and playing style. Before recording, you should be able to play without stopping, keep a steady tempo, and show correct dynamics and expression. Practice performing the full program just like a real exam.
🎧 3. Practice Performing on Camera
Playing for a camera feels different from normal practice. To get comfortable, do practice recordings, watch and listen to yourself, and ask your teacher or parents for feedback. This helps reduce nervousness and improve confidence.
📱 4. Set Up Your Recording Space
Choose a quiet, well-lit room with no background noise. Check that your instrument is clearly visible, your face and hands can be seen, and the sound is clear (not too loud or too soft). A simple phone or laptop camera is enough if used correctly.
⏱️ 5. Warm Up Before Recording
Do not start recording immediately. First, warm up with scales or easy pieces, take deep breaths, and relax your hands and body. A calm start leads to a better performance.
🎶 6. Record More Than Once
It’s okay if your first take isn’t perfect. Record a few times and submit your best complete performance—but remember, no editing is allowed.
🧠7. Stay Calm and Believe in Yourself
Mistakes can happen, and that’s okay. Examiners look at musicality, accuracy, confidence, and expression. Play musically and enjoy your performance.
Final Thoughts 🌟
The ABRSM online exam is a great opportunity to show your musical skills from the comfort of your home. With good preparation, practice, and confidence, you can give your best performance and feel proud of yourself.