What Next After ABRSM Closes Its Online Shop In November 20th 2024?

For music students, teachers, and musicians worldwide, the ABRSM online shop has been a one-stop source for purchasing exam materials, exam sheet music, and recordings.

However, with ABRSM's announcement to close their online shop on 20 November 2024, many are left wondering where to find essential resources like printed books, digital sheet music, and audio downloads.

Here’s what you need to know about ABRSM’s transition and where to find its resources after the shop closure.

What Does This Change Mean?

After 20 November 2024, ABRSM will no longer sell its publications directly through its website.

This includes physical books, materials, digital sheet music, and audio recordings.

All orders placed before this date will be processed as usual, so if you plan to stock up on any resources directly from ABRSM, this is the time to do so.

Where to Buy ABRSM Books and Exam Materials

The good news is that ABRSM’s printed materials, such as exam books, practice guides, and theory workbooks, will still be available through various retailers. Here’s where to look:

• Local music retailers: Many physical music stores carry ABRSM materials and are likely to stock more to meet the demand. In Kenya, you can shop at Text Book Center
• Online retailers: Websites like Amazon, Boosey & Hawkes, and other major online booksellers will carry ABRSM publications, making them easy to order from anywhere.

We will update you in our blog when we discover new websites selling ABRSM books.

Accessing ABRSM Digital Sheet Music and Audio Recordings

Digital music is an integral part of ABRSM’s offerings, and the organization has plans to continue making these available:

• Digital Sheet Music: Look for ABRSM sheet music on popular digital music retailers, where you can download sheet music as PDF files.
• Audio Recordings: Most of ABRSM’s audio recordings will be accessible through streaming services. Some tracks will be free, while others may require a subscription, giving you various affordable options.
  You can also buy individual MP3 downloads from Amazon and the iTunes Store, among these others.

ABRSM’s Practice Partner apps will continue offering selected audio tracks for in-app purchases.

This app-based solution is ideal for students of instruments like piano, violin, cello, brass, woodwind, singing, and musical theatre. It allows you to practice alongside high-quality accompaniments directly on your phone or tablet.

Important Notes on ABRSM Audio Download Portal

ABRSM is also closing its audio download portal, meaning there will be no more CDs or downloadable codes for tracks in future book editions.

If you own ABRSM books with download codes, redeem them by 20 November 2024 to secure access to any audio materials you need.

Who to Contact for ABRSM Resource Inquiries

If you have questions about ABRSM materials, here’s how to reach them:

• Printed books and music inquiries: Email shop@abrsm.ac.uk
• Digital sheet music and audio downloads: Email digitalsupport@boosey.com
• Audio downloads: Email audiosupport@boosey.com
• For other inquiries, use the Contact Us form on the ABRSM website.

Staying Updated with ABRSM’s Latest Resources

Even without an online shop, ABRSM will continue to share news on its website and send updates via email.

If you’re an ABRSM account holder, you can opt-in to receive their latest announcements by updating your marketing preferences in your profile.

Final Thoughts

While the closure of ABRSM’s online shop may feel like the end of an era, it does not mean the end of accessible, high-quality resources for ABRSM students and teachers.

By shifting to trusted retailers, streaming platforms, and in-app solutions, ABRSM ensures that its invaluable materials remain available to support your music journey.

At Cheza Music School, we’re here to help guide our students through these changes.

Feel free to reach out with any questions or if you need help finding the right resources.

We offer in-home music lessons to prepare learners for ABRSM exams in Kenya.