A full day of masterclasses and performance/stagecraft workshops for adult amateur pianists taking, or thinking of taking, a performance diploma (ABRSM, Trinity or LCM). Five or six performers will play a portion of their diploma programme (ca. 20 minutes) on a Steinway D concert grand piano and to a small and supportive audience, as a trial run before the exam itself.

These performances will form the basis of masterclasses by Graham Fitch, acclaimed teacher and author of the very popular Practising The Piano, to help participants improve their performances before their exam. The masterclasses will also give observers ideas for their own programmes, and what sort of performance standard and detail is required for a performing diploma.

In addition, Frances Wilson will take sessions on diploma preparation and planning, stagecraft and managing exam nerves. Discussions and group feedback on performance and programme notes will also be facilitated.

For those who aren't ready to perform yet, or for whom a diploma is more in the planning stages than the execution, the day is an ideal opportunity to observe several hours of performances and masterclasses on diploma-level repertoire, get ideas for potential programmes, work on strategies to mitigate nerves and anxiety, and also to meet other diploma candidates.

For a blog post on last year's Diploma Day, please see Frances Wilson (The Cross Eyed Pianist)'s excellent summary here.

Please note that this ticket allows entry for the whole day to observe only, not to perform. Those interested in performing should contact londonpianomeetup@gmail.com to apply. If you have any further questions please also don't hesitate to get in touch.

The tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable; please book by MIDDAY Wednesday 5th July. Full details regarding the timetable for the day and logistics will be sent out by email a few days before the event, so please add londonpianomeetup@gmail.com to your safe senders list to ensure you receive it.