Hi!

I've decided recently that I should continue on with violin after not really playing much over the last few years as i've been concentrating on Flute and Piano. I did Grade 6 over 3 years ago now and have not had a single lesson since. I have been learning some pieces from the ABRSM grade 7 syllabus namely the Telemann in list A and Schindlers Liszt from list C both of which I played for my A2 music recital last year. I know I could easily do grade 7 in time for Christmas with a bit of practice but with the new syllabus coming out i've been considering skipping a grade and just begin preparing for grade 8 with the view to do it maybe next Spring/Summer. With either option I won't be able to get a teacher so will be going it alone. Do you think this is dooable/wise?

With regards to the current grade 7 syllabus i've been working on, if I take this option and choose to do the exam maybe in 2008 will I still be able to play the pieces if they are not on the new syllabus

What do you guys think is the best thing to do?

Thanks for any advice it is very much appreciated.

Matt

You can use the current grade 7 syllabus in the Spring session of 2008. Without having heard you play, it's hard to tell, but it would be advisable to have some lessons just to make sure you're on the right track. If you do decide to go it alone, mabe do grade 7 first and see how that goes before taking grade 8.

Or just wait a couple of days before deciding on your pieces - the new syllabus is due out on Monday!

^ sounds like good advice to me, unless you can get an experienced teacher to see and listen to your playing.

Thanks for the replies. I will wait and see what the new syllabus is like first. I might even buy the grade 8 book/CD and see how difficult I find it.

I'd love to get lessons again but I can't afford any more after already paying for flute and piano lessons which is why I'd have to go it alone. Getting some lessons to see if i'm on the right track is a good idea though which I will look in to.