Exam

Mark awarded LRSM – Singing Award in Prison

Reading Time: 8 minutesAfter completing his DipABRSM in 2014, Mark took some time to focus on his legal studies before returning to his music in 2023, with support from the Hardman Trust. I was really lucky to meet some amazing musicians through Vox Holloway Choir and Liberty Choir, who encouraged me to take...

Mark awarded DipABRSM – Singing Diploma in Prison

Reading Time: 4 minutesMark studied for his Diploma in Music Performance (DipABRSM, rebranded as ARSM in 2024) whilst in prison, achieving a Merit. He was the first person to have ever attempted an exam at this level in prison. On a sunny afternoon in July, two examiners from the Royal Schools of Music...

Mark achieves Grade 8 Piano in Prison

Reading Time: 2 minutesAfter a year of study, Mark sat his grade 8 piano exam in prison, passing with Merit. Two diplomas and two degrees later, Mark is still looking for ways to stretch himself, and defy the apparent limitations of his circumstances. When everything else was lost, music felt like the only...