Available courses
Number of topics: 1
Join us for a special Zoom event designed to bring music teachers up to speed with everything ABRSM has planned for the new academic year.
This informative session will include a detailed presentation outlining key updates relating to our full portfolio of Music Exams. We will also showcase new products, services, courses and resources to support your own teaching and learning. Whether you’re a long-time ABRSM teacher or new to our community, this is a valuable opportunity to stay informed and feel confident heading into the new academic year.
The event will also include a live Q&A session, giving teachers the chance to ask questions directly and gain clarity on any topics of interest. From syllabus queries to exam formats and digital resources, no question is too big or small. Join fellow teachers for an engaging and supportive session that will help you make the most of what ABRSM has to offer.
This webinar will be presented by our Business Development Team; Alistair Kennedy, Sam Wyne and Dan Barker. Most of the information will apply to teachers in the UK, however teachers in other countries are welcome to attend.
Webinar Date: 1 September 2025
Time: 2pm - 3pm
Cost: Free
If you're not available at the date and time shown, please register anyway and a recording will be sent to you after the event.
Number of topics: 1
Join us for a special Zoom event designed to bring music teachers up to speed with everything ABRSM has planned for the new academic year.
This informative session will include a detailed presentation outlining key updates relating to our full portfolio of Music Exams. We will also showcase new products, services, courses and resources to support your own teaching and learning. Whether you’re a long-time ABRSM teacher or new to our community, this is a valuable opportunity to stay informed and feel confident heading into the new academic year.
The event will also include a live Q&A session, giving teachers the chance to ask questions directly and gain clarity on any topics of interest. From syllabus queries to exam formats and digital resources, no question is too big or small. Join fellow teachers for an engaging and supportive session that will help you make the most of what ABRSM has to offer.
This webinar will be presented by our Business Development Team; Alistair Kennedy, Sam Wyne and Dan Barker. Most of the information will apply to teachers in the UK, however teachers in other countries are welcome to attend.
Webinar Date: 28 August 2025
Time: 4pm - 5pm
Cost: Free
If you're not available at the date and time shown, another event will be held on Monday 1 September.
Number of topics: 1
Planning a Performance Grade exam? Not sure how to guide your students in selecting their own-choice piece? Join us for this practical and informative webinar designed especially for music teachers entering candidates for ABRSM Performance Grades.
We’ll explore how to approach the own-choice element of ABRSM Performance Grades with confidence, using clear guidance and examples to help you make informed, musical, and syllabus-appropriate decisions.
Webinar Date: 7 July 2025
Time: 8:30am – 10:00am (GMT+1)
Cost: £5
Drawing on expertise, we’ll explore what examiners are listening for and discuss how to select a piece that complements the overall programme. We'll also cover considerations of style, difficulty, technical aspects, and creative choices that help develop your students’ skills. Whether you’re preparing beginner or advanced students, this session will give you the tools to help every learner shine in their performance exam. There will also be time for questions and discussion, so you can explore how to adapt ideas for your own teaching context.
Michael O’Donnell - Biography
Living full-time in Hong Kong, Michael is the ABRSM Regional Development Executive for Hong Kong and Macau. He is also an ABRSM Examiner.
As a classically-trained flute specialist, Michael has a varied and international musical career which combines performing, teaching and adjudicating. Having performed professionally in the roles of orchestral principal, chamber musician and soloist, concert appearances have taken him to venues across the U.K., Europe and Asia.
A scholar at London’s Royal College of Music, Michael graduated with first class honours, having gained prizes for flute playing and chamber musicianship. During his time in the UK, Michael performed with the Philharmonia Orchestra, Bournemouth Symphony, National Symphony and Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra. He was also involved in session work with the John Wilson Orchestra, and performed solo recitals at venues across the UK, including London’s Purcell Room.
Moving to Hong Kong , Michael was principal flute with the Hong Kong Sinfonietta and Macau Orchestra. Since then he has been active in education work, including masterclasses, chamber music coaching and competition juries. He also teaches flute and piano to a wide range of students.
Michael was previously a member of the music department at Kellett School The British International School of Hong Kong; working with instrumentalists, orchestras, choirs and overseas festivals, he has amassed a great deal of experience in helping pupils of all ages and backgrounds.
Michael continues to work as an ABRSM examiner, and has visited exam centres and schools across the UK and S.E Asia. He has also given ABRSM seminars and teacher workshop presentations in Hong Kong, Macau, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and Mainland China.
Can’t attend live?
Register and pay, and we’ll send you the recording after the event.