The harp syllabus was fully overhauled in 2020 to reflect current international best practices in harp pedagogy. The revised technical work placed an emphasis on a wide variety of skills and a fresh sight-reading resource was developed. Both of these align neatly with the refreshed repertoire selections available to performers. The launch of the updated syllabus also included completely new resources:
- The first ever set of Grade books (Series 1)
- The introduction of Lever and Pedal Harp specialties
- New exam for Certificate of Performance
The syllabus seeks to enhance and inspire viola teachers' and learners' growth and development and features repertoire designed to introduce learners to a diversity of composers, styles, musical eras, techniques, and skills.
What sort of pieces are in the Syllabus?
The repertoire has had a complete refresh but don't worry - your favourites are still there. A broad range of genres, styles, and periods have been included and there's a diversity of composers where musical merit allowed. There are lots of gems from across Australia, and the world, including many original compositions and arrangements by our very own local Aussie composers. The pieces align to the technical work, before diverging into more instrument-specific techniques. At Level 2, there's a greater diversity of repertoire to support the interests of learners at higher levels, and provide relevant material for both types of harps.
Who was the brains behind the Harp Syllabus?
The amazing Alice Giles AM was the Principal Consultant for the syllabus review and she was joined by a team of consultants including some of Australia's finest harpists and pedagogues (across both Lever and Pedal Harp) for the compilation of music: Bronwyn Wallis (Level 1), Jacinta Dennett (Level 2), and Frances Thiele (Lever Harp), and Catherine Ashley and Jill Atkinson (Specialist Advisory Group). Aside from the best practices in pedagogy, the Syllabus review aimed to:
- Thoroughly revise the Harp Syllabus.
- Increase its accessibility by including instrument-specific support to both Lever and Pedal Harp learners and teachers.
- Produce the very first series of AMEB Harp publications.
- Include more works by women, Australian, and a general diversity of composers.
- Create consistency with the other AMEB Syllabuses, for example Lists are based on periods and historical style of the work.
- Ensure a broad range of experience is cultivated from the very beginning.
- Feature Australian composers in every Grade book.
What is the Certificate of Performance exam?
It's an exam that's designed to bridge the gap between Grade 8 and AMusA, and provide a capstone to Level 2. The CoP is a recital-style exam, like the Diplomas, but is a natural continuation of skills from Grade 8. We have a Spotlight article dedicated to Certificate of Performance exams here, if you're keen to find out more.
Can I get TCE bonus points for a Harp exam?
Yes you can! And that goes for any AMEB exam, including all Rockschool and PAA syllabuses. In fact, all practical exams are eligible for TCE bonus points from Grade 4 onwards, as well as Theory Grade 2+.
When can I do a Harp exam?
Our face-to-face exams are available in the June/July and October/November sessions. Alternatively, you can do a Video exam absolutely any time that suits you. To find out more about exam dates, head to our Exam information page.
I have more questions.
That's great! We'd love to help with those. Please feel free to browse the other great sources of information on our website or get in touch to find out more.
