Which scales/arpeggios/broken chords are needed in a Grade 3 piano exam?

Question

URGENT! Hi, I have my piano exam 8/7/08 and am not sure which scales etc to practise. I know that it is a little short noticed but if anyone could help me with a list of the scales/arpeggios/broken chords I would be so grateful!

Thank you so much!

Answer 1

SCALES AND ARPEGGIOS

Scales (similar motion)

A, E, B, Bb, Eb majors hands together and separately 2 octaves

B, G, C minors (melodic or harmonic at candidate’s choice)

Contrary-motion scales:

A major hands beginning on the key-note 2 octaves

A harmonic minor (unison)

Chromatic scales:

beginning on Ab and on C hands separately 2 octaves

Arpeggios:

Amajor hands together only 2 octaves

G minor

E, B, Bb, Eb majors hands separately only 2 octaves

B, C minors

All the scale requirements should be played from memory, ascending and descending according to the

specified range, without undue accentuation and at a pace that is consistent with accuracy and distinctness

(recommended minimum speeds are given in These Music Exams, available free of charge and at

www.abrsm.org/exams). In all grades, the scale requirements should be prepared legato, unless the

syllabus specifies staccato (or both). Any practical and systematic fingering that produces a good result

will be accepted. Pedalling must not be used.

For all ‘hands together’ requirements, the hands should be one octave apart, unless otherwise indicated.

Arpeggios, diminished and dominant sevenths are required in root position only, except where otherwise

indicated. Scales in thirds or a third apart should begin with the tonic in the lower voice, while scales in

sixths or a sixth apart should begin with the tonic in the upper voice.

Examiners will usually ask for at least one type of scale, arpeggio or broken chord required at each grade

and, from Grade 6, will aim to hear a balance of legato and staccato as appropriate.

Good luck!