How to Find ABRSM Drum Kit Exam Pieces: A Guide for Students and Parents in Kenya

About Drum Kit Exams

Performance Grades for Drum Kit were introduced in June 2024 and are available from Initial Grade to Grade 8. They are assessed through a video recording, meaning there are no booking periods or fixed sessions.

You can use your drum kit, record at your convenience, and submit your exam when you're ready.

These exams follow the Drum Kit Syllabus from 2024, which includes a wide range of music styles such as rock, jazz, Afrobeat, fusion, reggae, funk, heavy metal, and drum and bass.

Where to Find Your Exam Pieces

Here are three reliable ways to find and prepare your drum kit exam pieces:

1. Purchase the Official Books (Not easy to find in Kenya)

Each grade has its book of Drum Kit Exam Pieces, containing nine pieces per grade. These are available:

• In music stores or online retailers

• For all grades from Initial to Grade 8

These books are designed to support both playing and exam preparation, following the official syllabus.

2. Access Interactive Sheet Music on Tomplay (Accepted to be used for exam by ABRSM)

Tomplay offers interactive sheet music for ABRSM Drum Kit exam pieces, allowing students to:

• Slow down or loop sections

• Practice with backing tracks

• Follow the music visually on screen

Here are the exam pieces for various grades:

Access Tomplay ABRSM Drum Kit Exam Pieces - All Grades

As an example, below are the pieces for the initial grade:

You can access the pieces for the Initial Grade directly through the link below at $19 (approximately KSh 2,800)

Access Tomplay ABRSM Drum Kit Exam Pieces – Initial Grade

Please note that ABRSM accepts using these to prepare for your exams, and you don't need to purchase a physical copy of the book if you have access to this.

Initial Grade Pieces (2024 Syllabus):

1. "Bluesy Waltz" – Steve White

2. "Busy Hands" – Pete Riley

3. "Chillin’" – Jason Bowld

4. "Drive" – The Cars

5. "Fist Bump" – Kaz Rodriguez

6. "Give It Away" – Red Hot Chili Peppers

7. "Ready to Go" – Republica

8. "Sparkle" – Vicky O’Neon

9. "Weekend Vibes" – Ralph Salmins

These represent a diverse mix of genres and styles, suitable for beginners and designed to develop both creativity and technique.

3. Listen to High-Quality Recordings

Recordings and backing tracks of the exam pieces are available on major music streaming services like:

• Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/search/ABRSM%20drum%20kit%20pieces

• Apple Music

• Amazon Music

You can also purchase individual MP3 downloads from:

• Amazon

• iTunes Store

Listening to recordings can give you a better understanding of rhythm, groove, and style, and serves as excellent inspiration while practicing.

What Makes the 2024 Syllabus Unique?

The new Drum Kit syllabus stands out for its:

• Variety of styles from across the globe

• Music by legendary bands and artists like Foo Fighters, Oasis, The White Stripes, Elton John, and Dua Lipa

• Contributions from world-class drummers including Jason Bowld, Vicky O’Neon, Kaz Rodriguez, Ralph Salmins, and Steve White

• Option to include own choice pieces for greater flexibility

Final Tips from Cheza Music School

• Work with your drum teacher to choose pieces that match your strengths and musical interests.

• Use a combination of books, interactive tools, and recordings for a comprehensive learning experience.

• Take your time to enjoy the process and grow your skills with each piece.

Want to start drum lessons or prepare for your next exam?
Contact Cheza Music School today. Our experienced teachers are ready to guide you through every beat of your musical journey.