The LCME 2026 Piano syllabus is here

Today (13 May) we are launching our new 2026 Piano syllabus, a positive evolution that gives candidates more choice, a clearer structure and a stronger focus on musical confidence.

The 2026 Piano syllabus has been shaped by years of conversation with teachers, examiners and candidates from around the world. Everything you already value about LCME piano exams is still here, with meaningful improvements that will make the syllabus better for everyone.

What’s new

  • Three themed repertoire lists: Lists A, B and C are now organised around musical character and skill, rather than historical period:

    • Voices and conversations — technique and precision

    • Poetry and drama — expression and musicality

    • Games and dances — rhythm and flair

  • Popular Piano: A new graded list of familiar favourites across genres and styles. Candidates can replace up to two pieces in a graded exam, or any number in a recital grade, with Popular Piano selections from the same grade.

  • Keyboard harmony test: A new alternative to sight reading, in which candidates harmonise a simple melody with the correct chords. It builds practical skills for accompanying, ensemble playing and improvisation. We are proud to be the only UK performance board to offer this.

  • Diverse repertoire: New pieces across every grade, with stronger global representation, more female composers, and a thoughtful balance of established pedagogical favourites and new voices.

  • Free specimen materials: Digital booklets with specimen tests for technical work, aural and sight reading are free to download.

Ben Norbury, Head of Exams at LCME, said, “We wanted to create something that reflects how piano is taught and learned today, with more variety, a clearer pathway through the grades, and the freedom for candidates to play music they genuinely enjoy. The keyboard harmony test is something we are particularly proud of. It builds practical skills that pianists use throughout their musical lives, and we are the only UK board to offer it.”

A clearer pathway

We have made the progression through the grades simpler. Steps 1 and 2 remain as the pre-grade option for beginners and younger pianists, leading directly into Grades 1 to 8. The Preparatory level has been removed to create a cleaner pathway, and the Recital Grade continues to give candidates a performance-focused route if they prefer to focus on playing.

New handbooks in print and digital

For the first time, our piano handbooks are available in both digital and printed editions, so you can choose the format that works best for you and your students.

When to switch

The 2026 syllabus and handbooks are available now. The previous 2021 Piano syllabus will remain valid until 31 July 2027, allowing you over a year to plan the transition at a pace that works for you and your students.

What to do next

  • Visit the Piano page to download the full syllabus, specimen materials and more.

  • Sign up for one of our Piano webinars, which begins in May 2026 with walkthroughs, teaching tips and live Q&A.

If you have any questions, please get in touch with us our your local LCME centre — we are always happy to help.

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