Performance diplomas - a guide
Completion requirements
This short guide provides an introduction to our new Performance diploma suite. It does not replace the Qualification Specification.
If you are planning to take a diploma or prepare a student for one, it's important to read the Qualification Specification in full before preparing. Use the contents list on the right-hand side to navigate through the different diplomas.
4. FRSM
About the FRSM Performance diploma
- The FRSM is a Level 7 qualification.
- It's available as a digital exam.
- Candidates must pass ABRSM Grade 8 (Performance or Practical Grade) before they can take an FRSM. We also accept Grade 8 in instruments that are closely related or appropriate professional experience.
- You do not need to pass the ARSM or LRSM in order to take the FRSM.
What instruments does it cover?
The FRSM diploma is available for the following subjects. You can find repertoire lists on our website.
- Keyboard: Piano, Harpsichord, Organ
- Strings: Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass, Guitar, Harp
- Woodwind: Recorder, Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Bassoon, Saxophone
- Brass: Horn, Trumpet, Cornet, Flugelhorn, E♭ Horn, Trombone, Bass Trombone, Baritone, Euphonium, Tuba
- Percussion
- Singing
What does my student need to prepare?
This qualification has two components: Unit 1: Performance and Unit 2: Research and Reflection.
- Unit 1 is a performance of repertoire chosen by the candidate. It needs to be 55-minutes (±10%) in length. Candidates must choose at least 50% of the repertoire from our repertoire lists. The rest can be own-choice repertoire (at or beyond LRSM standard).
- Unit 2 is a written submission or a video on a topic chosen from a list of options. Candidates can choose to write or present in the form of a video. It should be 3500 words (±10%) or 17 minutes in length.
On the next few pages we'll provide more detail on Unit 1 and Unit 2.