A Guide to the ABRSM Syllabus (2023 - 2024)


Nancy Litten - The Sad Ghost

ABRSM Grade 3 - B1

This piece depicts a ghost peeping at its old haunts, sighing as it goes. We feel the eeriness of the mood in the mournful main melody, supported by a left hand that features chromatic scales that seem to float downwards. The repeating note pattern at the end takes us to the top registers of the piano, and the ghost disappears. There is the possibility for some colourful pedalling for those who wish to explore it, or the piece can be played without.

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Resources & links

  • This piece is available for digital download individually from the ABRSM shop here or in print as part of the Piano Exam Pieces 2023 & 2024 Grade 3 publication here.

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