We have released an exciting refreshed Strings syllabus for 2025, packed with inspiring repertoire, updated requirements, and more support than ever. Whether you play violin, viola, cello, double bass, harp or Scottish traditional fiddle, this syllabus gives you the tools to play music that resonates with your students.
A rich and diverse repertoire
This is Trinity's most vibrant and varied repertoire for stringed instruments yet. With more than 500 new pieces added across all bowed string instruments and harp, the repertoire spans an incredible mix of genres and styles. You'll find:
- well-known Western Classical works
- memorable music from film, TV and musicals
- jazz, Latin and folk music from around the world
- contemporary pop tracks.
This range allows you to choose music that suits your students' personal interests and identity as a musician.
New violin books for every grade
Violinists can enjoy a brand-new suite of books from Initial to Grade 8, each featuring 12 carefully selected pieces. These include classical favourites, popular tunes, and new commissions from leading composers such as:
- Omar Puente - a Cuban-born jazz violinist and composer known for blending classical and Afro-Cuban traditions
- Julian Farraretto and Chris Garrick - acclaimed jazz violinists who bring improvisational energy to the repertoire lists
- Stephen J Wood - a Scottish folk composer whose works add a rich, traditional feel.
These composers bring global perspective and modern creativity to the syllabus, offering students something new and engaging at every level.
Key features of the books to note is that each one:
- includes access to broadcast-quality demo and backing tracks for each piece
- is available in eBook and printed formats, and
- contain performance notes for each piece
eBook versions of the violin repertoire books are available to purchase from the Trinity shop now!
Print copies of the violin repertoire books will be available from September but you can pre-order your copy here.
All-in-one syllabus format
We have simplified the way the syllabus is presented. Everything you need is included in one easy-to-follow format, including:
- face-to-face exam requirements
- digital exam requirements
- filming and recording guidelines
- guidance for Technical work
- information on the Repertoire-only pathway and Technical pathway for digital exams
This makes planning and preparing for exams more straightforward than ever.
More flexibility in performance
The updated syllabus includes changed that give your students even more choice in how they perform:
- Backing tracks can now be used for duets (available up to Grade 3) in both face-to-face and digital exams
- Duet parts can now be played on any bowed string instrument
- Instrumental backing tracks are permitted for both face-to-face (Initial-Grade 3) and digital exams (Initial-Grade 8). Please note that backing tracks must not double the solo line or provide any additional support to the candidate.
- There is no longer a requirement for candidates to perform pieces by different composers
- Candidates continue to be invited to perform their own composition in their exam, with updated guidance provided in the syllabus to help them do it well.
These options support different learning styles and give players more freedom to showcase what they love.
Updated Technical work and Musical knowledge
We have made some helpful adjustments to the Technical Work, and the Musical knowledge Supporting test:
- You can now use arpeggios for the Bowing exercise
- The number of Grade 6 Technical exercises has been reduced
- Musical knowledge questions (available as a Supporting test option at Initial-Grade 5) have been updated to make the clearer and more relevant.
These changes are designed to support musical growth.
What's new for harp players?
In addition to new repertoire, harp teachers and students may also notice an update to how we differentiate between the two different types of harp exams on offer from Grade 4 onwards. To reflect common terminology more effectively, we now officially use the term 'lever harp' where we previously referred to 'non-pedal harp'.
Re-release of Cello All Sorts
To coincide with 13 pieces from the book being included across the Initial-Grade 3 repertoire lists, Trinity College London Press is re-releasing its popular Cello All Sorts collection. Including fun and accessible pieces in a variety of styles, this is a great publication for younger learners or anyone looking to build confidence through enjoyable repertoire.
Cello All Sorts will be available to purchase from September 2025.
Still using the 2020 Violin graded exam books? Keep going!
If you've been preparing candidates using the 2020 Violin exam pieces, you can continue using them. Trinity's inclusive approach means that:
- repertoire and Technical work from the 2020 syllabus remains valid on an ongoing basis
- backing tracks from the 2020 pieces are still available to purchase from the Trinity Shop.
This lets your students continue to build on their existing progress without the need to start over, now new repertoire is available.
Free online resources to help students prepare
Trinity has a range of free online materials, designed with input from experienced musicians and educators. These resources support:
- the understanding of musical concepts
- performance preparation
- gaining confidence ahead of an exam.
They're a great way to build skills alongside their regular practice.
Your performance. Your choice.
Trinity’s refreshed Strings syllabus gives you more variety, more flexibility, and more support than ever before. Whether you're a beginner or advancing through the higher grades, this syllabus helps you discover music that excites you.
Choose the pieces that inspire you. Learn at your own pace. Perform with confidence.
Want to hear more about our new Strings syllabus? Watch back our webinar from 8 July with Sector Support Manager (Arts & Music), Amy Lee, and Trinity Lead Senior Examiner, Anna Dryer-Beers.
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