The ABRSM Percussion syllabus from 2020 offers candidates the flexibility to be examined on a single percussion subject (snare drum, timpani or tuned percussion) or on all three subjects (in a Combined Percussion examination) at every grade.

The syllabus has been scrutinised and refreshed to respond to the needs of today’s percussion learners, and ABRSM’s supporting publications offer resources to help candidates prepare for each area of the exam.

Percussion Exam Pieces and Studies 2020 contains set pieces for snare, timpani and tuned percussion at Grades 1–5. Every piece has been specially commissioned for Percussion 2020, with the complete set of books offering percussion players 75 brand new pieces across the grades. Containing five pieces for each percussion subject at each grade – and spanning solos, duets and accompanied pieces – these books provide a wonderful array of repertoire for candidates taking either a Single or a Combined Percussion exam.

In addition to the set pieces, Percussion Exam Pieces and Studies 2020 includes two timpani studies and two snare drum studies at each grade. These studies fulfil the technical requirements for timpani and snare drum (alongside Scales & Arpeggios for tuned percussion).