Viola Exam Pack 2020-2023 Initial Grade. As part of the 2020-2023 syllabus, ABRSM is introducing a new Initial Grade exam for Violin, Viola, Cello and Double Bass with first exams taking place from 1 January 2020. The Initial Grade is a pre-Grade 1 assessment, following the same structure, content and assessment criteria as ABRSM?s existing graded music exams (three pieces, scales, sight-reading and aural tests). It?s designed to allow learners at the earliest stages of their musical journeys to celebrate their achievement, and is an ideal qualification for those who want a mark as well as helpful feedback. The Viola Exam Pack for Initial Grade contains nine pieces (three per list) from the syllabus, the scales requirements and sample sight-reading tests. Audio recordings of the nine pieces in each book are included with the pack and will be available via a download and streaming code. A separate Specimen Aural Tests book is also available for Initial Grade.