Exams
ABRSM Piano Syllabus 2027–2028: 5 things Macau candidates should know
The new ABRSM piano syllabus applies from 1 January 2027; old pieces can be played until the end of 2027, and scales, sight-reading and aural tests are unchanged.
Published 28 October 2026 · 1 min read · KARON Education
In one sentence: ABRSM's Piano Syllabus 2027 & 2028 applies from 1 January 2027 with refreshed repertoire lists; scales and arpeggios, sight-reading and aural tests are unchanged. Pieces from the 2025 & 2026 syllabus can be played until 31 December 2027, but all three pieces must come from the same syllabus.
1. What changed
- New repertoire lists from Initial Grade to Grade 8, mixing new and retained pieces.
- A new *Piano Exam Pieces* book per grade with nine pieces and QR codes to free learning resources.
- Still one piece from each of Lists A, B and C.
2. Can I still play old pieces?
Yes, until 31 December 2027 — as long as all three pieces come from the 2025 & 2026 syllabus.
3. Old or new?
Nearly ready on old pieces and sitting in 2027: stay with the old syllabus. Just starting a grade, or sitting in 2028: use the new one.
4. Macau sessions
In 2026 Macau had two Practical Grades sessions (July–August and November–early December), with booking about three months earlier (April and August). 2027 dates and fees follow ABRSM's official announcement. KARON handles entries for students.
5. How KARON prepares students
Repertoire fixed three months ahead, sight-reading and aural every lesson, a mock exam with another teacher, and seasonal concerts. Full roadmap: ABRSM guide.
Source: ABRSM Piano Practical Grades Qualification Specification 2027 & 2028 (abrsm.org).
