Introduction

2. ARSM

About the ARSM Performance diploma

• It's a Level 4 qualification.
• It's available as a digital exam.
• It is recommended that candidates are aged 16 or over, and have a minimum of six months' experience in the field of music teaching. This could encompass a range of activities including observing, being part of a team delivering teaching, coaching, leading rehearsals, contributing activities to group sessions, supervising practice, attending training etc. 

What does the candidate need to prepare?

• Unit 1A: A Video of 30 minutes ( ±10%) and Supporting Commentary of 1500 words ( ±10%) or 8 minutes spoken ( ±10%). 
• Unit 1B: Written Submission of 2000 words ( ±10%) or 10 minutes spoken ( ±10%).
• Unit 2: 30-minute structured conversation with an examiner. 

How do we mark the ARSM?

• One examiner will mark Unit 1A and Unit 1B before Unit 2 takes place. They will then mark Unit 2. 
• The examiner first marks Unit 1A out of 15 using the marking criteria on page 31 of the Qualification Specification. 
• The examiner then marks Unit 1B out of 15 using the marking criteria on page 32 of the Qualification Specification. 
• Once the Professional Discussion has taken place for Unit 2 the examiner marks it out of 20 using the marking criteria on page 33 of the Qualification Specification. 
• The marks are added together for a final mark out of 60.