Lower Sixth Stonar School student Anna Hallett has been awarded her ABRSM Diploma in Piano Performance, following a tense wait over five months for her results.
The ABRSM Diploma is made up of four parts, each of which must be passed. These parts consist of programme notes, a 35 minute recital, the quick study and the viva voce. Anna prepared for this alongside studying for her GCSE exams last academic year, showing great commitment and perseverance as she scheduled her time effectively for both pursuits.
On receiving her results, Anna said, “I am incredibly proud of this achievement, it being the culmination of a number of years of hard work and dedication to the instrument. Not only now can I use DipABRSM after my name, but I can also wear a gown and hood – not that there are many occasions where there is a call for such attire!”
Anna started learning the piano in 2021 at the age of seven. She took to the instrument quite naturally and within a couple of school terms, she took her first exam and gradually worked her way through the grades. Having achieved Grade 8 in 2019, Anna hoped to take ABRSM Diploma last summer. The worldwide events of the past two years delayed this exam, but she undertook virtual lessons and produced a 35 minute programme ready to take the exam in the summer of 2021. Once GCSE assessments were completed, Anna spent upwards of five hours a day at the piano honing her pieces in readiness for the exam.
Dr. Andrew Passmore, Director of Music, commented, “The DipABRSM exam is equivalent to the work expected of a first year undergraduate student. For Anna to have achieved this in her GCSE year is simply outstanding and a testament to her incredible persistence and determination to succeed. Anna is an amazing role model for the younger years, and a perfect example of what can be achieved if you are willing to stick with something for long enough.”
As well as being accomplished in piano playing, Anna also plays the organ and sings. Under Dr Passmore’s guidance, Anna is now also learning the harpsichord and relishing the challenge of a new keyboard instrument. In the last month, Anna collaborated with a friend to produce an organ centred magazine, The Organ Manual, which has been downloaded over 2000 times since its release.
Matthew Way, Headmaster, commented, “All of the Stonar community is very proud of Anna’s extraordinary achievement in passing the DipABRSM at the age of 16. This success has come from the great joy Anna has in her music, but also from many hours of solitary hard work. Her dedication and talent is exceptional and we are very lucky to have Anna leading the way in our Music Department.”