Courses Offered
Eight graded programmes in classical and contemporary performing arts, examined twice a year across progressive levels — from a first year of foundation to advanced, performance-ready mastery. Download the detailed syllabus for any course below.
Eight disciplines, one standard of assessment
Every ABSKM course follows the same graded structure — a defined syllabus for each level, a written and practical examination, and a certificate issued on successful completion.
Kathak
Classical DanceNorth Indian classical dance built on tatkar footwork, chakkars and expressive abhinaya, taught in the traditional guru–shishya method. Levels progress from Prarambhik through Visharad and beyond, covering tala, theory and stage performance.
Bharatanatyam
Classical DanceThe classical dance of Tamil Nadu, rooted in the Natya Shastra and built on precise adavus, mudras and araimandi posture. Graded levels cover nritta technique, rhythm, theory and the solo margam repertoire.
Odissi
Classical DanceThe lyrical classical form of Odisha, known for its tribhangi stance, chowk and sculpturesque temple postures. Levels move from basic bhangis and belly movements to complete pallavi, ashtapadi and abhinaya items.
Kuchipudi
Classical DanceThe classical dance-drama tradition of Andhra Pradesh, combining nritta, nritya and natya with narrative storytelling. Levels cover adavus, jatiswaram, shabdam, tarangam and character-based abhinaya.
Western Dance
Contemporary DanceContemporary, hip-hop, jazz and freestyle technique with an emphasis on rhythm, body conditioning and choreography. Levels assess control, musicality, improvisation and both solo and group performance.
Vocal
MusicHindustani classical singing — swar, alankar, raag and taal — extending into semi-classical and light forms. Levels move from basic sur-sadhana to detailed raag exposition, bandish and stage recital.
Tabla
Music · PercussionNorth Indian percussion taught through bol, hand technique and laykari in the traditional gharana style. Levels cover theka, kaida, rela and tukda, along with accompaniment for vocal and dance.
Fine Arts
Visual ArtsDrawing and painting alongside traditional Indian forms such as Madhubani, Warli and Tanjore, plus craft work. Levels build from the fundamentals of line, form and colour to composition, original work and portfolio.
How every course is graded
Each discipline follows a progressive level structure. A candidate may join at the level appropriate to their training and advance one level at a time, with an examination at the end of each stage.
Ready to register for an examination?
Students register through their affiliated academy. If you run an academy and would like to offer ABSKM examinations, apply for affiliation and we will get in touch.