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ABRSM Classical Piano
Practical Grade 1 - 8
Over the past 20 years, PBE has remained steadfast in its belief that the traditional approach many students take to learning classical piano is flawed—not the genre itself. We make it a point to clarify that Classical is one of many important musical genres, alongside Pop & Jazz. And learning Classical piano is absolutely valid. The issue lies in the approach—not the music. The approach to focus solely on memorisation and playing pieces note-for-note, is disastrous. Students and teachers chose this path because it’s a more convenient way to pass exams—doesn’t matter whether it is right or wrong.
At PBE, we take a unique approach to ABRSM classical piano lessons. While our goal remains the same—to pass their exams and achieve certifications—we place equal importance on developing broader musical skills, particularly improvisation. The process begins: once students have selected their three exam pieces, we provide lead sheets (containing melody and chords) for those same pieces. Students then learn the pieces in their original, pre-arranged form and simultaneously explore how to improvise using the lead sheets. This integrated method enables students to develop an immediate understanding of the relationship between melody and harmony. In addition, we place greater emphasis on aural training. This focus helps develop relative pitch, a key skill for nurturing well-rounded musicians who can eventually play by ear.
Classical piano lessons (administrative information):
Course Title: ABRSM Classical piano
Mode of coaching: one-on-one lessons (individual)
Age group: for all ages
Lesson duration: 45 minutes
Lessons frequency: 1 lesson per week
Prerequisite: Zero music background
Available ABRSM levels: Grade 1-8
As a PBE student, you will receive the following incentives
a) ABRSM songbook
b) Login ID and Password for P.B.E.S™ Online Student Portal
c) Whatsapp Newsfeed & admission to PBE Club where you can enjoy free usage our practice studios, free scores transcribing, discounts on musical instruments & more
Useful links:
ABRSM Classical piano examination guidelines
The ABRSM Piano Practical Grades 1–8 offer a structured and internationally recognised pathway for classical piano learners. Each grade nurtures technical control, musical expression, and performance confidence. If you are aiming for formal certifications, ABRSM exams are the way to go, providing a clear and recognised benchmark of your progress and achievement in classical piano. The exam is marked out of 150 points and is divided into four key sections — Pieces/Songs, Scales and Arpeggios, Sight-Reading, and Aural Tests.
The grading system is as follows: Distinction: 130–150 marks | Merit: 120–129 marks | Pass: 100–119 marks
PIECES/SONGS
90
marks
-
Candidates are required to perform three selected exam pieces, each carrying a maximum of 30 marks
SIGHT-READING
21
marks
-
Candidates are required to complete a sight-reading exercise to assess accuracy, fluency, and musical understanding
SCALES AND ARPEGGIOS
21
marks
-
Candidates must demonstrate technical proficiency through the performance of prescribed scales and arpeggios
AURAL TESTS
18
marks
-
Candidates must undertake a series of aural tests designed to evaluate listening skills and overall musical perception
How are our Classical piano lessons different from other music schools?
Free practice studios for active PBE students **No booking required**
As an enrolled PBE student, you are entitled to use our Level 3 practice facilities, equipped with digital pianos, during operating hours from Monday to Sunday. You are welcome to practise on non-lesson days as well.
We testify as a team of qualified instructors with no attitude issues
The truth is that musicians are often known for their eccentricity; however, this should never be used as an excuse for displaying inappropriate behaviour or attitude. As musicians, our goal is to share our knowledge and nurture the growth of others.
You have the liberty to change your teacher if necessary
From our roster of qualified instructors, we will carefully recommend and assign the teacher best suited to your learning style and goals for your keyboard lessons. If the pairing isn’t the right fit, you may request a teacher change at any time.
The correct approach to learning Classical Piano
We incorporate elements of improvisation alongside exam preparation to help students understand how melodies are built from chords and to gradually develop their sense of relative pitch, enhancing their ability to play music by ear.
Hollow prosperity do NOT motivate us. Money isn’t our passion.
Since 2003, our school’s culture has been entirely centered on a genuine passion for music, not profit. While we recognize the fundamentals of running a business, financial gain is never our driving force.
Invitation to perform at our annual student recitals: locally or in Shinagawa (Japan)
Every year, there are 2 annual student recital concerts. One is held in Singapore and the other is held in Shinagawa (Japan) – 5 Chome – 18 – 1 Higashioi, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo. We showcase our students of different levels, even beginners.
Taking the right approach to learning Classical Piano
As mentioned earlier, many piano students—especially those studying classical piano—tend to memorize pieces note for note without truly understanding what they are playing. This method of rote learning is typically tied to the graded exam system (e.g., Grade 1, Grade 2, up to Grade 8), where students prepare three set pieces each year to pass an exam. The focus becomes passing grades, not achieving musical independence. Here’s the problem: Try asking a friend with a classical piano background to play Happy Birthday or Mary Had a Little Lamb by ear, using both hands. Chances are, they won’t be able to. Many Grade 8 pianists are limited to their exam pieces, and after less than a year away from the piano, much of what they’ve learned is forgotten. That defeats the purpose of learning music, doesn’t it?
Before watching the video (below), again, we clarify that there’s nothing wrong learning Classical piano. The genre is fundamental and has shaped the music we know today. The problem lies not in the genre, but in how most people choose to learn it. At PBE, we focus on the four core aspects of music as a language — reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
The next video was not created for any commercial or promotional purpose for our school. Its sole intention is to support and demonstrate our claim based on real interactions with real people. To be absolutely clear: this video is fully unscripted. It was filmed over two full days in November 2023 on the streets of Bugis. And if we were to re-shoot it entirely, the results would be the same.
A total of 76 people were interviewed, and among them, 22 had a background in classical piano. Out of those 22, only 3 were still able to play. The rest admitted they could no longer play because they had “lost touch.”
This raises a critical question: What is the point of learning to play the piano if the ultimate outcome is forgetting it entirely? When you learn a true skill, it should stay with you for life. Think about swimming or riding a bicycle — even if you haven’t done it in ten years, you can still do it.
Learning music should be no different. Music is a language. To truly master it, you must learn to speak it — to understand, express, and improvise freely, not just memorize and reproduce. We hope this message enlightens as many people as possible and inspires a shift in how we approach learning music.
Local & International celebrities / Influencers / Music collaborators
For the most part, PBE was never a ‘star-struck’ music school or at least our culture was never about grooming students to be artistes but rather hobbyist musicians. Nevertheless, our brand identity has attracted local celebrities (Chen Xiuhuan, Jeremy Chan, Maxi Lim, Sora Ma, Zhang ZhenHuan) to learn from us and we are really very honored.
We also like to take the opportunity to thank all of our PBE guest artistes and music collaborators we have worked with since 2003.
FAQ about time slots:
Please whatsapp us at 91798110, as our schedule changes every other day. <CLICK HERE to whatsapp us>
1130am & 83opm for weekdays and 930am (upon request) & 415pm for weekends
When you postpone a lesson, you receive a makeup lesson which has a 6 months expiry. Do note that to postpone a lesson, you’ll need to give 3 days’ advance notice for peak lessons and 1 day for off-peak lessons.
You can sign up sign up using the ONLINE form, or at our school physically (by appt) or via whatsapp at 91798110. <CLICK HERE to whatsapp us>
Let us know, and we’ll find a suitable solution for you.
For a full quote, whatsapp at 91798110. <CLICK HERE to whatsapp us>
Yes, you can purchase a trial lesson at $72 (45mins duration)
Other FAQ:
There is nothing wrong with learning classical piano — it’s all about the approach you take. If you focus solely on memorizing exam pieces without understanding how melodies and chords are constructed, you will never truly internalise music.
Yes it is OK. In fact, once you are a registered student, you are able to use our practice rooms (with pianos) for free.
You may purchase the ABRSM score book from us or any of their authorized resellers.
You may book a trial lesson and have your instructor to assess your level.
In short, yes. You should, however, determine whether examinations are appropriate for you. For leisure playing, we recommend our Pop Piano Improvisation course for adults.
It does not matter which part of the month you register and commence your first lesson, as school fees will be fairly prorated accordingly.
For Classical, the focus is on examinations and certifications, with song choices tied to exam syllabuses. In pop music, the focus is on leisure and learning songs of your own choice. At PBE, we place strong emphasis on improvisation — taught in both courses, though explored more deeply in Pop Piano , 
CLICK HERE to learn more about our Pop Piano improvisation course
Yes, you can purchase a trial lesson at $72 (45mins duration)
Online registration form for ABRSM Classical Piano Practical Grade 1-8
Due to increased spam and bot activity on our online registration forms, starting from November 2024, all course registrations will be handled through WhatsApp at 91798110. <CLICK HERE to whatsapp us>
