About this episode

This episode provides a comprehensive guide to mastering 'He’s a Pirate' for ABRSM Cello Grade 3, focusing on technical growth and musical expression.

This is an InfoPod for Continuum School of Music. Mastering “He’s a Pirate” from Pirates of the Caribbean: A Complete Guide to ABRSM Cello Grade 3. Choosing repertoire for an ABRSM exam is never just about picking notes off a page—it’s about finding music that lets a young cellist grow technically while discovering their own musical voice. For Cello Grade 3 in the 2024 syllabus (still current in 2026), the refreshed lists offer wonderful variety across Lists A, B and C. One piece that stands out for its immediate appeal, clear character and excellent teaching value is “He’s a Pirate” (from Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl) arranged by Alan Bullard, found in List C of the Cello Exam Pieces from 2024, Grade 3 (ABRSM). This short, energetic film-music arrangement is perfect for illustrating how ABRSM assesses pieces and how players can balance rock-solid technique with vivid musical personality. Whether you’re preparing it for a Practical Grade exam (three pieces plus supporting tests) or a Performance Grade (four pieces plus overall performance mark), the principles remain the same. The ABRSM Marking Framework for Pieces Every piece in ABRSM exams—regardless…

People in this episode

Host: Sarnia de la Maré FRSA

Topics covered

• cello technique
• ABRSM exam preparation
• musical repertoire
• film music
• music education

Keywords

• ABRSM
• cello
• He’s a Pirate
• music education
• performance grade
• exam preparation
• musical technique

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: ABRSM

Books & works: He’s a Pirate, Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl, Cello Exam Pieces from 2024, Grade 3

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