What's on the new Trinity Piano Syllabus?

Trinity College London has unveiled its new Piano Syllabus for 2023, and it's a game-changer for piano students and teachers alike. Launched on September 2023, this syllabus offers an incredible range of pieces, blending classical traditions with modern innovations. Here's a deep dive into what makes this syllabus so exciting:

A Broad and Diverse Repertoire

When we did our Instructor's Training last 2022 at the TCL Middle East Office, Jonathan Ramgopal, Middle East Manager for Rock and Pop, highlighted that the new syllabus will be diverse and inclusive. Amazingly, they did not disappoint. The new syllabus includes an expansive selection of 42 pieces from the 2021 and 2023 publications at each grade level. This variety ensures that students have an extensive array of music to explore, catering to different tastes and skill levels.

Classical and Contemporary Gems

From the timeless works of J.S. Bach, Haydn, Chopin, and Schubert to contemporary classical pieces by Roxanna Panufnik and Ludovico Einaudi, the syllabus offers a rich tapestry of music that covers a whole generation. This blend provides students with a comprehensive understanding of piano music's evolution.

Jazz, Latin, and Popular Hits

For those who love jazz and Latin music, the syllabus includes standards by Duke Ellington, Miles Davis, and Chick Corea. Aside from these gems, Pop enthusiasts can enjoy playing hits from global stars like Ed Sheeran, BTS, Adele, Coldplay, and Pharrell Williams, making practice sessions both fun and motivating.

Sample piece from Coldplay's Clocks at Grade 5

Music from Movies, TV, and Video Games

The syllabus also features pieces from popular films, TV shows, and video games, including "Harry Potter," "Star Wars," "La La Land," "Doctor Who," "The Legend of Zelda," and "Super Mario Bros" This contemporary selection keeps students engaged with music they know and love.

New Commissions and Inclusive Selections

Every grade includes new commissions from contemporary composers, introducing fresh and diverse musical influences (Trinity College) (The Cross-Eyed Pianist). The syllabus also emphasizes inclusivity, featuring works by female composers and those from historically underrepresented backgrounds, such as Helene de Montgeroult, Dora Pejačević, and Florence Price.

Collections in Perpetuity

Starting in the edition, it is notable that the cover states "from 2023" rather than the standard year-year validity. That is because beginning in 2023, the syllabus will not have validity anymore so students have more options and selections to prepare for their performances.

Flexibility and Support

Trinity’s flexible syllabus allows students to select pieces they enjoy and even perform their own compositions. Exams can be taken in-person or digitally, accommodating different preferences and needs (Trinity College London UK & Ireland Blog).

Additionally, Trinity offers a range of free online resources to help students and teachers develop performance skills and musical knowledge (Trinity College London UK & Ireland Blog).

For more detailed information, including the full repertoire list and exam booking details, visit Trinity College London’s official website here. Explore this rich and varied collection and find the perfect pieces to inspire your musical journey!

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